Years ago, it was common for shops to have a central power source that drove all the tools through a system of belts, wheels and driveshafts. The power was routed around the work space by mechanical means. While the belts and shafts may be gone, many shops still use a mechanical system to move power around the shop. It's based on the energy stored in air that's under pressure, and the heart of the system is the air compressor.
You'll find air compressors used in a wide range of situations—from corner gas stations to major manufacturing plants. And, more and more, air compressors are finding their way into home workshops, basements and garages. Models sized to handle every job, from inflating pool toys to powering tools such as nail guns, sanders, drills, impact wrenches, staplers and spray guns are now available through local home centers, tool dealers and mail-order catalogs.
The big advantage of air power is that each tool doesn't need its own bulky motor. Instead, a single motor on the compressor converts the electrical energy into kinetic energy. This makes for light, compact, easy-to-handle tools that run quietly and have fewer parts that wear out.
https://www.dtsanyparts.com/wheel-loader-parts/air-compressor-assembly-for-wheel-loader.html