New Air compressor

[Popeye]

Quick and dirty... my little compressor went TU yesterday afternoon. HD has the tool instant rebate and a 12 month same as cash. I'm in the "go big or stay at home mode", well... go big but <$600. I can run another 220 line to the shop and probably looking at a 220 oiled unit but....is there a 110 unit that will run a HVLP gun?
Recomendations or "don't buy this one" Thanks Pat

[cabinetman]

Pat

The trick to air compressors is to detrermine the required CFM of the tool at what operating pressure (PSI). Then see what the compressors's CFM output is at that pressure.

I know this sounds like jibberish. But, most tank type compressors will cycle on when the tank pressure drops to a certain PSI. If the tool's demand is greater that the compressor's output, the air in the tank drops, the compressor kicks on, and if its CFM is less than the tool, it will run out of air and stay running, until you stop spraying, and the tank can build back up.

[Thom2]

You're already finding out what a PITA it is to go buy a new air powered tool only to find out that the supply isn't big enough to handle it. I've said it before and I'll say it again, if you treat a non-portable compressor as a one time investment, you'll spend a little more up-front but won't ever find yourself lacking for air to run just about any tool you're gonna use in a small/medium shop.

space constraints allowing .... 60g/5hp single-stage .. nothing less, this will drive just about anything that you'll ever dream of throwing at it. If the budget allows (you've got money to blow) go for a 2-stage unit ... it'll offer higher pressures and faster recoup. BUT!, after having my single stage for a few years, I really can't justify the jump in price to a 2-stage, the single stage has done everything I've asked of it.

[WayneJ]

I was looking at a spray gun at HF. The air consumption was listed at3.5-5.0 at 25-30 psi. A good 110 volt comp should work ok with that one. It was a HVLP type. For a impac wrench or framing nailer you would have to go big. I know HF has a U.S. general comp in the $400 range 220v 2 cyl thats big, if you have the room. Might be worth lookin at.
Wayne

[newbie2wood]

If space is not an issue, almost any 220v 60 gallon compressors will suffice for non-industrial applications. The biggest demands on a compressor are sanding, sand blasting, and spray painting.

I do not have a dedicated workshop so space and mobility are important factors. Bigger is better but for my needs a 60 gallon compressor would be overkill.

I like the Husky 26 gallon cast iron motor compressor (model VT6315) for $379 at HD. Price is before rebate.

The compressor has an oil lubed cast iron pump. Oil lube compressors are generally quieter than compressors with oil free motors. It has a cast iron pump, not just the sleeves which mean better durability. The unit can be converted from 120 volt/15 amp operation to 240 volt/7.5 amp operation, if needed.

It is not too big and can rolled around on its two wheels. It can produce around 5.5-5.8 CFM @ 90 psi. You can run most tools with 5.5 CFM.

BTW, the amount of air required for a tool varies with the brand. For example, a Craftsman sander may require 6.0 CFM while a Husky sander only need 5.4 CFM.
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[sacherjj]

I picked up the lowest 60 gal model. It is 220V. I believe it was $429. It seemed like so much more compressor than the 26 gallon 110V model from only $50 cheaper. It isn't real quiet, but much quieter than my oil less. All in all, I like it. I've had it about 6 months and have another 5 before I have to pay it off. That 12 months free is nice if you are disciplined and pay it off before.

[tojan19]

I just got a great deal at lowes. Right now they have 15% off all power tools (including compressors). Sale is till the 11th. I took in a harbor freight 15% off coupon and got both deals. I got the $500 hi flow 60 gallon compressor for $360 +tax. It puts out plenty of air for anything including HVLP which is the main reason I picked it.

[Popeye]

Thanks folks. I ended up picking up a 60 gallon Husky yesterday. Now I'm waiting on help to pull wire. Pat
PS.... Thom, you're a PIMA