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Re: Air Compressor

To: shop-talk@Autox.Team.Net
Subject: Re: Air Compressor
From: Fred Mill <millfm@wolfenet.com>
Date: Fri, 01 Mar 1996 21:48:45 -0800
I have 2 compressors I am using.  I have a 4hp single stage in the 
garage I paint in. This is adequate for painting and running body 
sanders,  but is running pretty much continuously  with sanders.  I have 
a cooling system on this compressor. I attached an air conditioning 
condenser to the inside of the exhaust fan. Air goes from the tank to 
the top of the condenser. At the bottom of the condenser is a small 
water/oil trap with a filter. This has stopped the air tools from 
spitting water and the air is dry enough to paint with. 

For shop use I have an old 2 stage industrial compressor with a 5 hp 
motor I got from Graingers. I use this for grinders, impact tools, 
pressure feed sandblaster, and glass bead cabinet. This just about keeps 
up with everything except  for  having to wait for pressure buildup 
during sandblasting. 

It looks like the hp ratings of the new compressors are somewhat 
inflated. To get a more realistic hp number for comparison, multiply the 
volts and amps from the markings on the name  plate and devide by 880. 
(746W/hp / 85%eff).  This will give an approximate true hp rating. A 
real 5hp motor will draw at least 20 amps from a 220V circuit. 

If you will be using the compressor for sandblasting or glass beads, you 
will want at least a 5hp 2 stage. 

You might want to look to see if there are any used industrial 
compressors available in your area. I would rather have a used 
industrial than a new inexpensive single stage unit. 

Just my $.02 worth.

Fred Mill

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