Quick tool question
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 8,852
Likes: 2,493
From: Decatur, Alabama
With most air tools it's not always the pressure required but the continuous volume. Some, like an impact wrench, are air hungry which is to say that they require a higher constant flow of air so you're not constantly waiting for the compressor to catch up. Your example compressor makes enough pressure but falls short in the constant volume department. It'll do the job but you will be waiting for it to refill the tank so you can pull the trigger again.
Look at the tool you want to use first. See what the CFM requirement is for it, then match (or better yet, beat) the CFM output from the compressor you are going to buy.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 24,712
Likes: 9,218
From: Snow Hill, NC
A 5 gallon is kinda border line...What you showed the CFM seems a bit too low...I have a Coleman powermax and the CFM's are a bit higher but even then my sander and Impact run out of juice just before it kicks back on..if you are just using it once in a while it's ok but if you use it a lot go with a bigger tank and maybe a oiled motor...The nice thing about the oiled motor it can be rebuilt easily. I have seen some good deals in the bargain trader... my son in law bought a 100 gallon used one for $200.. little rusted but has used it for 3 years flawlessly... good deals in this economy and around X-mas....lot of people want extra cash.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,352
Likes: 4
From: Augusta, GA
Most of these guys are right on the mark.
I bought the biggest 110v compressor Sears sells. It puts out about 6.5 cfm @ 90 psi has a 33 gallon tank and will power most every tool in my box without having to wait to air.....much.
I do use sanders, cut off tools, impacts, ratchets, you name it. The only thing it won't do is the sand blaster and I think someone already mentioned that.
If you are serious about air though you have to make the jump to a 240v unit to really get the volume to power all these tools @ 100% output. Somewhere above 9cfm@90psi will take care of business.
Also, buy a vertical unit either mobile or stationary, you won't regret it.
I bought the biggest 110v compressor Sears sells. It puts out about 6.5 cfm @ 90 psi has a 33 gallon tank and will power most every tool in my box without having to wait to air.....much.
I do use sanders, cut off tools, impacts, ratchets, you name it. The only thing it won't do is the sand blaster and I think someone already mentioned that.
If you are serious about air though you have to make the jump to a 240v unit to really get the volume to power all these tools @ 100% output. Somewhere above 9cfm@90psi will take care of business.
Also, buy a vertical unit either mobile or stationary, you won't regret it.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,389
Likes: 26
From: Windham,Maine
Most any compressor will work,small ones need more buildup time.You have to decide what are you plan to do.All tools list psi requirements,thats really all you need to know.Constant tool use means a pump that will keep up without running all the time.A homeowner has different needs
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 6,932
Likes: 4
From: 46th State, USA
A real piston type compressor is much better than an air tank with a air motor on top of it. For small jobs and short work, the air motors are ok but the piston type compressors are more durable but more expensive.
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