What
Air Compressor do you need for your Power Tools?
If you are intending to buy an air power tool, you
will require an air compressor to go with it. Air tools have the advantage of
being lighter and longer lasting than their electric counterparts. The absence
of a motor means there are less components likely to fail. The performance of
an air tool will depend on the air compressor powering it. So how do you choose
the best air compressor for your air tools?
Electric or gasoline?
Air compressors can be powered by either gasoline or
electricity. The choice between the two power sources depends on where you are
working. In an enclosed space like a warehouse or a workshop, an electric air
compressor is the better choice as it is quieter and does not give off noxious
fumes like gasoline types.
Tank size
The bigger the size the more air it can hold and the
longer you can work with your air tools. Some tools like air hammers are used
for brief intervals and can do ok with a smaller tank. Air tools used for
longer periods like paint sprayers or sanders will need a bigger tank.
Pump type
Air compressor pumps can either be direct drive or
belt driven. Direct drive pumps do not require oiling and are suitable for
spray painting. They are also quieter. Belt driven pumps are ideal for heavier
air tools.
Power rating
The power rating of an air compressor determines the
tools it can run. Power rating for air compressors is measured by Cubic Feet per
Minute (CFM). Smaller home power tools
can adequately run on 0.5 CFM while heavy duty power tools like sanders will
require 10 CFM for the best performance.
Design
Air compressors can be mobile or stationary,
horizontal or vertical. Mobile air compressors are ideal for outdoors work and
they are mostly in the horizontal orientation. Vertical air compressors are
ideal for saving space while operating heavier air tools.
