Once limited to commercial use, air tools are now available for home
and farm applications. These tools offer a long life and are relatively
maintenance free.
COMPRESSORS
Compressors come with or without air storage tanks.
Compact compressors generally use a diaphragm type pump powered be an
electric motor.
Since the capacity of the compact compressor is limited, they are
primarily used for hobby and light spray painting. Compact compressors
do have the capacity to run glue guns, inflate low pressure tires and
sports equipment.
The unit must run continuously, since there is no reserve tank on the
compact compressor. Using connecting rods sealed in oil free bearings
provides and oil free air supply.
Compact compressors generally have wheels and a handle for easy
pulling. They weigh around 30 lbs. and commonly have a ½ hp engine.
Designed similar to the cylinder/piston mechanism of an automobile are
the piston type compressors. Utilizing a gas or electric motor to drive
the pump unit, these compressors will have either one or two cylinders,
depending on the compressor’s size.
Piston compressors are more durable and offer a greater work capacity.
These compressors, in the past, required lubrication for the piston and
cylinder. Oil free piston compressors are now available and, having
self lubricating parts, perform as well as or better than conventional
compressors.
Horsepower ratings on compressors refers to the motor that powers the
pump unit. The higher the horsepower equates to a more powerful
compressor with greater work capacity.
Other ratings include cubic feet per minute (cfm) which is the volume
of air that the compressor supplies. The size and number of tools
operating from the compressor will determine the amount of cfm
required.
The amount of air pressure generated by the compressor is referred to
as psi or pounds per square inch. Tools also have a psi rating, which
must be considered when matching the tools to the compressor.
Gasoline powered compressors are desirable for use where air tools are needed away from a source of electricity.
Eye protection should always be worn when operating air tools. Air powered tools have high power and fast rotation.
TOOLS
Sizing of the tool intake (1/4", 3/8",1/2",3/4" and 1") will determine
the size of connectors attached to the air hose as well as the psi and
cfm required to operate the air tool. Some of the most popular tools
include blow gun, drill, grease gun, grinder, hammer, impact wrench,
nail gun, stapler, ratchet, sand blaster, sander, saw spray gun, tire
chuck, tire inflator, die grinder and riveter. Kits are also available
to adapt and compliment the use of air tools.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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