of air tool will you predominantly be using with your compressor? Certain tools – or should I say jobs – require more sustained outputs of compressed air – such as air sanders, grinders, etc, as opposed to say, a nailer or stapler. For sustained output, you'll obviously need a machine that not only produces the needed pressure, but does it at the rate at which you'll be needing it! This is measured by liters-per-minute (l/min) or cubic-feet-per-minute (CFM). This is an extremely vital consideration!
- Now rate your best findings against their power consumption. If 2 machines have equal pressure and production rates but one runs at a higher HP(horse power), which one's more efficient?
- Unless you're deaf, you'll probably be at least remotely concerned about the noise level in your new compressor – or be prepared to have some angry neighbors! Compare the noise levels between machines. Noise levels are denoted by decibels (dB).
- Last but not least, compare prices! As with most things, pneumatic compressor quality and performance is greatly influenced by its price. Don't be too jarred when you realize that the totally AWESOME compressor with those perfect specs you had your eyes on happened to be 5 grand! Tsk tsk. Most people don't need such "awesome" compressors, and can easily get by with ones in the 100 dollar range.
A few last maintenance and other tips:
- Make sure you faithfully release the air pressure valve on your air tank after you use it! Moisture from the compressed air collects inside the tank and can cause rusting and premature failure if not allowed to escape.
- Be sure you keep your air tools safe, free of dust, and perform periodic oiling if need be. – Some tools require this, so see the manual if in doubt.
- If you happen to get yourself a pneumatic compressor with a small tank, be particularly mindful of use involving repeated "on-off" cycles with short intervals. Such use often results in the overheating of the machine and possible failure. There are 2 ways to tackle this problem: Get a compressor with a smaller tank so the compressor is on continuously (less strain on the compressor unit); or get a compressor with a bigger tank so the intervals between air compression are longer – the latter is advised. There are also auxiliary tanks available.
Well, good luck with getting that air compressor of your dreams! It is definitely a machine worth getting your hands on!
If you found my article helpful please visit my websites at Free & Handy and Your Japanese Garden for more, thanks!
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