<VV> Advice on air compressor specs.

[Jay Maechtlen]

On 10/23/2013 3:30 PM, Taruffi57 at aol.com wrote:
> I am researching vertical tank compressors.  Won't be using it a lot,  but
> DO want it to be able to run basic air tools w/o gasping for breath and
> surely deal with wheel lug nuts.   Need to know max. cu. ft. per min.  @ what
> PSI should do the job.  Also, What is the difference between a sgl.  stage
> and dual stage unit?  I know I need a water separator and  filter.  Should it
> be 120 or 220 volts?  Prefer low maintainence, and  low money invested.  Not
> particularly interested in Chinese crap.
>   
> Joe Dunlap
> Florida
>   ________________
Look at what CFM the air tool uses, and at what pressure.
Depending on the impact wrench and the size of lugs, you might want a 
pretty high pressure for it.
Specs for the compressor should include CFM at some delivery pressure - 
that's more important than max pressure.
A two stage compressor may be more efficient- more air per HP.
Generally the water separator and filter would be separate from the 
compressor, I think.

I'd think that 4-5 CFM would be plenty for  air tools, unless you are 
doing a LOT of work with them.
To spray paint, you may want more volume.
If you do much painting, you might want a better drier and a dedicated 
air hose for painting - to make sure it stays dry.

FWIW
Jay

-- 
Jay Maechtlen SoCal '61 2-dr modified w/fiberglass skin, transverse 3.8 
Buick V6 TH440T4 trans