2 Things To Consider Before Choosing An Air Compressor
If you are looking for a great way to speed up any woodworking or construction project, you have probably thought about buying an air compressor from a company like Kruman. However, you might find yourself overwhelmed with all of the different air compressor models available at your local hardware store. Fortunately, by categorizing your needs, you might be able to find the perfect version. Here are two things to consider before choosing an air compressor:
1: Frequency of Use
One of the first things that you will notice about different air compressor models is that they come in a huge range of sizes. Although you might assume that bigger is better, the fact of the matter is that it largely depends on how often you plan to use your air compressor. Are you an at-home hobbyist or a professional contractor? If you only plan to use your new air compressor to nail together a few crafts, you won't need a large, industrial version. On the other hand, if you work in construction, you might need the air power that a 50-gallon air tank can provide.
Simply put, the larger the air compressor, the longer it can provide you with pressurized air before refilling itself. Air compressors constantly detect the internal pressure and click on to suck in additional air to maintain airflow. However, since most systems lose air power when they refill, you might end up waiting on your compressor if you choose a system that is too small for your needs. On the other hand, too large of an air compressor might take up valuable space in your garage or work truck.
To choose the right size, consider each air compressor's duty cycle. Basically, a duty cycle is a rating for how much of a break a system needs to take when run continuously for 10 minutes, and it is expressed with a percentage. For example, an air compressor with a duty cycle of 70% would mean that the air compressor would run for 7 out of 10 minutes before the motor would need to take a break. The higher the percentage, the longer the system is capable of running.
As you ponder your options, think about how many minutes straight you would need to use your system on average. If you are a stay-at-home mom who wants to add a little crown molding around the house, a system with a low air duty cycle might work just fine. On the other hand, if you know that you will need your system to keep up with you and run continuously, look for an air compressor with a large tank and a great duty cycle rating.
2: Work Location
After you know what size you are looking for, you will need to carefully consider your personal work environment. Here are a few types of air compressors, and the work environment they are meant for:
- Gas-Powered Air Compressors: If you are a professional contractor or tend to work outside in your yard, it isn't always easy to track down a power outlet. If you rely heavily on air tools to help you to get the job done, you might be left in a pinch if you can't plug your system in. However, gas-powered air compressors have internal combustion engines, so you can use them anywhere. In addition to toting that compressor onto your roof, you might also be able to get a little work done on your cabin in the middle of the wilderness.
- Electric Air Compressors: On the other hand, gas-powered air compressors tend to generate carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous if you work in the enclosed space of your basement or garage. To avoid polluting your indoor air with poisonous gas, purchase an electric air compressor.
- Adjustable Exhaust Air Compressors: If you want the flexibility of being able to work indoors or outside, consider looking for a system that boasts adjustable exhaust controls. These systems allow you to reroute the exhaust with the help of a long, adjustable hose, so that you can work wherever you want.
Choosing an air compressor designed to fit your needs might help you to get the job done a little faster, while staying safe in your work environment.
Share