Thread: help me choose air compressor

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http://www.harborfreight.com/25-hp-2...sor-67847.html



i was wondering if the pneumatic experts could help me choose an air compressor.. i am looking to run 3-5 pneumatic props.. probably more like 3 this year, 5 for next year... is the one above enough cfsm for that if i use a manifold for the 3 props... thanks a lot..

I'm not a hard core expert on compressors but that looks good to me.

Been using a similar one for years and it ran up to 6 pneumatics including air whips and a air cannon. But... always wished I had a bigger, better one. But, if you aren't sure how hard core you'll be then this looks like a good choice.

Also, do a search for compressors at this forum. This topic and been brought up many times and you will find a wealth of information in those past threads.

I am also looking for a new one... the one we use now leaks and is always refilling itself

Before you buy a compressor watch this video.

Also do a search on quiet compressors. Nothing worse than the noise of a compressor spoiling your ambient sound.

http://answers.walmart.com/answers/1.../questions.htm

I have a 30gal porter cable that runs 13 pneumatics without a hiccup. It is a stand up style similar to the HB one. Yes it is loud, but I have it 100ft in the back so you can't hear it.

Some props are air hugs...ankle tickler, air cannon, spitter. Your normal 1 or 2 cylinder props you can get a ton more activations out of.

If I need more air I just use aux or storage 5 or 11 gallon tank. I like to use these around big air suckers.

Originally Posted by Industen

I have a 30gal porter cable that runs 13 pneumatics without a hiccup. It is a stand up style similar to the HB one. Yes it is loud, but I have it 100ft in the back so you can't hear it.

Agreed, as long as you can route an airline, noise isn't a problem. I did a side by side noise test at Sears. The oilless and oil compressors were both loud... the oiled one less so. My compressor is in the basement and have an airline routed up to the garage. Can't hear a thing. Plus, the compressor is already in the basement for building props and airbrushing off-season Dual use.

I would say the HB one would work fine. That price is great considering I paid $350 for mine.

Although you have to look at the SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet Per Minute)

4.7 SCFM @ 90 PSI. Mine pushes around 10 SCFM @ 90PSI

I would think you could get away with 6-7 props but it may run alot to recharge your "system" depending on how they will activate and timed. You get what you pay for don't forget.

I have that exact one, but got it for $10 less I will be running 3 pneumatic props off of it this year. It's loud, but putting it behind the house will help. You can't beat it for the price, but as Industen says it does run alot. I will probably get an air tank or two and add it to my lines, using Industen's set up as an example.

I would check out your local Sear Hardward store to see if the have any demos or returned units. Most will carry the same warrant as new. I got a 5 hp 30 gal a few years ago for $199 with air tools.

Anyone have an opinion on the smaller Harbor Freight (Fright!) ones? I'm not planning on pneumatics, I just want it for a webcaster, spraypainting, and to run nail guns with.

I like most of what I've bought from HF so far but more expensive equipment worries me, especially an air compressor. I've heard it's really hit or miss, one thing will be very well built while another will fall apart in a week. Also planning on getting the smaller drill press next time it's on sale for $70.