Air compressor for sand/bead blasting?

[firebird.77]

Don't skimp out on the compressor, buy AT LEAST as big as what you need. You will be kicking yourself later!!!

[DennisPA]

Something else to look at is the max psi of the compressor. A 5hp with a 60 gallon tank running 175psi max. will run longer between compressor cycles the the same unit with a max of 135psi. The extra 40psi makes the same unit feel like its' got more like a 80 gallon tank.
Just as a point of referance I run a 5.5hp with a 60 gallon with a max of 135psi. Most stuff its fine but when I was restoring my truck sandblasting the compressor was running non-stop. I only had about 4-5 minutes of working then about 4-5 minutes of waiting. Got to be a PITA!
Keep an eye out on craigslist. There's really not much to go wrong with these things as long as the pump is ok. When I was looking I saw quit a few really big units sell cheap from shops. If you have 3 phase electric at your shop you can get some great industrial units used. I'm stuck with 2 phase where I live and I'm not paying for an inverter. Best of luck.

[t1066]

Keep an eye out on craigslist. There's really not much to go wrong with these things as long as the pump is ok. When I was looking I saw quit a few really big units sell cheap from shops. If you have 3 phase electric at your shop you can get some great industrial units used. I'm stuck with 2 phase where I live and I'm not paying for an inverter. Best of luck.

Actually, single phase, not 2 phase, unless you have a really funky power setup. 2 phase requires 4 wires.

And you can make a phase converter out of a large, and usually cheap, 3-phase motor.

http://www.chudov.com/projects/Phase-Converter/

[DennisPA]

Oops I meant single phase brain fart on my part!

[t1066]

No problem, it is a common slip.

Here is a picture of my compressor for anybody still following along.

[JStem1283]

I have a 13 gallon 1.5hp craftsman compressor, it holds enough to use my 1/2" IR impact wrench for 5 lug nuts before losing its umph.

[redturbo0]

harbor freight has a nice little 21 gallon oil compressor on sale for $163 I think... Just bought it today, my third one from them. First I took in for a stupid issue that I could have dealt with, but I had a service plan that was almost up so I figured why not. Second one I over oiled and fucked it up fast. Third, I'm using right now... Moral of this story, get the service plan.

Also buy oiled unless you hate the neighbors and like making noise. I mean sure the oiled compressor isn't quite but its much quieter.

[redturbo0]

also keep in mind, if the gun or tool is rated for 7CFM and 90PSI don't think you need a compressor exactly at that. The tool with handle that for you, or to make you feel safer most if not all compressors have a psi knob to control flow.

if you plan on letting it sit for a long time between uses as well, I'd recommend a filter and tool oilier. You basically put them between your compressor and the air hose going to the tool. Filters out the water the compressor pulls from the air and keeps the tools nice and lubed for longer life.

[Arrdy]

Put on a 2nd or more tank. An old hot water heater makes a good add on. The P&T valve is set at 150 PSI and 130 degrees. and if I remember right, the tanks are rated at 300 PSI hydrostatic (water).

Use the largest tubing you can, it acts as a reservoir. 3/8 or 1/2" are better then 1/4". Schedule 40 PVC is rated at 140 PSI Burst.

Use a receiver/dryer on the line. You don't want oil or water getting in your blast media.

Use a regulator and set it to the lowest PSI you need to work properly.

Use a 220V motor ... uses less current = lower electric bills.