Air tools are devices that use compressed air to perform various tasks, such as drilling, sanding, painting, nailing, and more. They are popular among DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals because they are versatile, powerful, and easy to use. However, to run air tools effectively, you need to have the right size air compressor that can supply enough air pressure and volume to your tools.
The size of the air compressor you need depends on two factors: the air consumption and the air pressure of your air tools. You can find these specifications in the manuals or labels of your tools, or you can look them up online. The air consumption is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or liters per minute (LPM), and the air pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) or bars.
To calculate the size of the air compressor you need, you need to follow these steps:
Add up the air consumption of all the air tools you plan to use at the same time. This will give you the total air demand of your system. For example, if you want to use a drill that consumes 4 CFM and a nailer that consumes 2 CFM, your total air demand is 6 CFM.
Multiply the total air demand by 1.5. This will give you some extra air capacity to account for air leaks, pressure drops, and inefficiencies. This is also known as the safety factor. For example, if your total air demand is 6 CFM, your adjusted air demand is 9 CFM (6 x 1.5).
Choose an air compressor that can deliver at least the adjusted air demand at the required air pressure. You can check the air delivery or output of the air compressor in the specifications or labels. It is usually expressed as CFM or LPM at a certain PSI or bar. For example, if your adjusted air demand is 9 CFM and your required air pressure is 90 PSI, you need an air compressor that can deliver at least 9 CFM at 90 PSI.
The tank size of the air compressor is another factor that affects the performance of your air tools. The tank size is measured in gallons or liters, and it determines how much compressed air the air compressor can store. The larger the tank size, the longer you can run your air tools without interruptions. However, the larger the tank size, the heavier and bulkier the air compressor will be, which may affect its portability and storage.
The best way to choose the right air compressor tank size is to consider how often and how long you will use your air tools. If you use your air tools intermittently and for short periods, you can get away with a smaller tank size, such as 1 to 6 gallons. If you use your air tools continuously and for long periods, you will need a larger tank size, such as 10 to 60 gallons. You can also use this formula to estimate the tank size you need:
Tank size (in gallons) = (adjusted air demand x run time) / 7.48
The run time is the number of minutes you want to run your air tools without stopping, and 7.48 is the number of gallons in one cubic foot. For example, if your adjusted air demand is 9 CFM and you want to run your air tools for 15 minutes, you need a tank size of 18 gallons (9 x 15 / 7.48).
How to Choose the Right Air Compressor Power Source
The power source of the air compressor is another factor that affects the size and performance of your air compressor. The power source determines how the air compressor is powered, either by electricity or by gas. Each power source has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your needs and preferences.
Electric air compressors are the most common and widely available type of air compressors. They are powered by plugging into an electrical outlet or a generator. They are usually quieter, lighter, and more energy-efficient than gas air compressors. They are also easier to maintain and operate, as they do not require fuel or oil changes. However, electric air compressors are limited by the availability and capacity of the power source. They may not work well in areas where there is no electricity or where the voltage is low. They may also have lower performance and durability than gas air compressors.
Gas air compressors are powered by gasoline or diesel engines. They are usually more powerful, durable, and reliable than electric air compressors. They can work in any location and environment, regardless of the power source. They are also more suitable for heavy-duty and industrial applications, as they can deliver higher air pressure and volume. However, gas air compressors are also louder, heavier, and more expensive than electric air compressors. They also require more maintenance and care, as they need regular fuel and oil changes. They also emit fumes and exhaust, which may be harmful to the environment and your health.
The best way to choose the right air compressor power source is to consider where and how you will use your air compressor. If you use your air compressor indoors or in areas where there is electricity, you can opt for an electric air compressor. If you use your air compressor outdoors or in remote areas where there is no electricity, you can opt for a gas air compressor.
Choosing the right size air compressor for your air tools is not a difficult task, as long as you know the air consumption and the air pressure of your tools. You can use the simple formula and steps we have provided to calculate the air compressor size you need. You also need to consider the tank size and the power source of the air compressor, depending on your usage and preferences. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you get the best performance and efficiency from your air tools and your air compressor.
