Posted: 9/24/2007 5:34:31 PM EDT
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Anyone have input on purchasing an air compressor? I'm considering a Porter-Cable 3Php 4.5Gal Job Boss (linkeroo) but I don't know what all the specs imply or the reputations/track records of the various brands. Hitachi is in the running too right now. I want to blow out my sprinklers and have something to run some basic air tools for occasional home improvement type stuff like putting up the new fence I have in mind and framing the basement of the chick I'm spending time with these days. Any suggestions, experience etc appreciated. I'm pretty sure I want electric, I need sufficient CFM to blow out sprinklers and I want it to last for years light to medium use. |
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Tank's too small for the money. It will never keep up with sustained work. Don't get an oil-free compressor. That one is more like a keep-it-in-the-truck-and-use-it-on-a-job-site kind of compressor. It'll run a nail-gun, but if you ever want to paint, sand, or cut, you'll want more. ETA: I missed your link to the Hitachi. That seems better. Look for as high a SCFM rating you can get, in a budget you're willing to spend. And don't get tricked by high SCFH at lower pressures. |
+1 Oil-free compressors tend to be incredibly loud, and need frequent rebuilding in order to maintain their pumping efficiency. I have one similar to this that I have been happy with: Campbell Hausfeld compressor I run Mobil One synthetic oil in it, this supposedly increases the duty cycle. I originally wanted a similar sized Quincy, it is quieter, and pumps a little more air, but it is about twice as much as a Campbell Hausfeld. |
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Compressor advice: Bigger=better. Ingersoll Rand Industrial compressors are very, very good. Not the junk you get at sears, but their commercial lineup. I run a big Devilbiss at home 6.5 hp 80 gal., dual stage. It is the bare minimum for running autobody tools and a paint gun. Smaller units will easily exceed their recommended duty cycle trying to keep up with a modest automotive hobby. I am on compressor number three, FWIW. I ran an 80 gallon dual stage single phase 230V Ingersoll Rand at my work shop. It could easily support 2-3 folks with high air demand and it was rated at 22CFM at any PSi, 100% duty cycle. If I ever need another, I will get this brand!!! IR LINK |
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Here is the one I have, and the smallest one I would recommend. I bought this one for portability, and because it runs on 110v. www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_207226_207226 Those little compressors you linked to might inflate tires and maybe run a nail gun, but nothing else. If you want to run tools, sprayers, etc you need a large tank and CFMs at high PSI. Don't bother with an oil less, they are worthless. |
This is one link illustrating that the above is false: Compressor Oil and Hydrocarbon destabilization in PVC Pipe Compressor oils tend to destabilize the hydrocarbon molecules in PVC pipe causing brittleness and possible catastrophic failure under pressure. This is an OSHA requirement and is further monitored by plumbing inspectors. Nearly all manufacturers of oil-lubricated air compressors will state on their packaging and in their manufacturer's data that their equipment should not be used with PVC pipe. The use of oil-lubricated equipment to blow out irrigation piping systems is one of the leading causes of their failure. Granted it takes years and years of use, it still happens. Although it is louder, and a little more on maintenance, I would advise an oil-free compressor. Oil-free compressor |
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Safety hijack - PVC pipe is not for use with ANY compressed gas. It has nothing to do with the oil, it has everything to do with small sharp pieces of PVC going into your head. Don't do it, don't be around it, don't even think of disputing me with the "### max PSI" printed on the side of Sch80. I have the GF tech manual on my desk, and have seen what happens when it blows. |
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