Air Compressor Questions

[Stu Cool]

I have decided I really can't do without an air compressor. I would appreciate advice on what to look for and lookout for. My needs are operating air tools including buffers, grinders and wrenches. Eventually I may want to do some painting. What CFM, HP and tank capacity should I consider the minimums? Bear in mind this is for home shop use, not commercial. I would only be powering one tool at a time. Any particular brands that are good or bad? And where is a good place to shop?

Thanks

Pat

[madgrinder]

sells a "Black Max" compressor. 5hp motor, single phase 220v, twin cast-iron cylinders, 60gal upright tank for less than $700.

sweet deal for a pretty serious compressor.

[Stu Cool]

Thanks madgrinder,

Just remebered one more constraint. I only have 120v in my garage. I know that will limit me, but I am not in a position to rewire just now.

Pat

[Bob Parmenter]

Three most important things for the tools you listed= volume, volume, volume. When you run an air tool such as a sander, grinder, sand blaster, etc. it's like cutting the end off the hose and letting the air flow. Pressure is almost worthless after 100psi.

Air compressors are sold like a lot of things where numbers games are played. People will fudge their HP numbers, volume numbers, pressure numbers.

Generally, cast iron pump, and honest higher hp = less noise. Oilless, or oil free pumps are very noisy. Here's a link to a company that makes a very good product for the money, and their site will give you some guidelines that are useful no matter where you buy.
http://www.eatoncompressor.com/page/page/504413.htm

Also, if you're unfamiliar with compressor useage, you'll always need more air than you think.

When you're done deciding on the compressor, then you need to learn about trapping the water that's condensed so that it doesn't ruin your tools or any painting you might decide to do.

[Dave Severson]

Stu, ya gotta get 220 to the shop, 110v compressors just do not have the volume or tank capacity to do a decent job. Also, I would give some serious thought to getting a two stage instead of a single stage compressor, they cost more, but are much more efficient.