Air Compressors: Choosing A Good One
There are a variety of portable air compressors, and each one varies in price, size, and power level. The air compressor you buy will be determined by the tools you intend to use with it. Read and follow the power requirements of the tools you use to ensure that you get a model that can run even the most heavy duty tool you own. It's a good idea to choose a compressor slightly more powerful than what you would need to run your most powerful tool. This ensures you are equipped for any job.
A very important consideration when you begin to use an air compressor is safety. Be sure to wear safety goggles when you operate your tools. Also wear protective clothing, which should include long pants, long sleeved shirts, and safety shoes. Shoes should be heavy duty work boot if possible.
The most common of portable air compressors is a portable rotary screw compressor. This compressor can range from 65 yo 1600 cubic feet per minute. The pressure rating can be from 100 to 350 psi (pounds per square inch). In order to determine the best air compressor for your needs think about the types of tools you use. If you are a professional, using your compressor to run multiple heavy duty tools you would need at least 185 CFM.
Truck mounted compressors are mounted under the hood of a truck or in the bed. Mounting a compressor under the hood saves room to carry more tools and equipment in the bed of the truck. A truck mounted compressor uses the truck's engine to generate power. This makes maintenance of this type of air compressor very easy.
A deck mounted compressor will be mounted in the bed of a truck. It is portable and can be removed and left on the job site. This makes set-up and work convenient. Deck mounted compressors have their own engine, so they aren't reliant on the power from your truck.
Air compressors are available with gas and electrical powered engines. In air compressors air is stored in a holding tank. Pressure is monitored by gauges on the compressor; pressure can be regulated by the pressure valve. Compressed air is forced down an attached hose which powers tools. Of the air compressors available one of the best brands is Quincy. Quincy offers a variety of small and large air compressor models to meet any number of needs. Their rotary screw compressors range in size from ten to 350 horsepower, offering flexibility regardless of the jobs you have to do.