Air
compressors provide the necessary energy to
power air tools like pneumatic
nailers, pneumatic
drills, and spray booths, and so they can make
your projects go much more efficiently. There
are many different types of compressors, so it
can be difficult to decide.
There are a few things to consider when shopping
for compressors, including power, portability,
maintenance requirements and spare
parts availability and, of course, price.
Types of compressors
Compressors come with many different types of
compression systems and features. The different
types of compressors each have their own benefits
and drawbacks, and a look at a few of these types
of compressors can help to make your choice:
Oilless air compressors
Oilless
often called centrifugal
air compressors typically
have fewer moving parts than other types of
compressors, and, as their name implies, they
do not require oil to lubricate their pistons
and valves. This has two advantages. One is
that you will save money on maintenance, and
the other is that your high pressure air will
not be contaminated with microscopic oil particles
which can cause flaws in sprayed on paint,
laminate glue, and other finishes.
Gas compressors
Gas
compressors run
on gas or diesel, and so
do not force you to rely on electrical outlets
to run your pneumatic tools. Natural
gas compressors are
good for wood workers who frequently assemble
or finish projects away from their wood shop.
Electric compressors
Most
air compressors are designed to work in your
shop, and can range from small hobby units
to industrial
compressors which pump out up to
500 horsepower. An electric compressor is a good
option for those who work in the shop. Major
brands in this field are Campbell
Hausfeld, Curtis,
Coleman, Delta, Devilbiss,
Husky,
Leroi,
Ingersoll
Rand, Emglo, Porter
Cable ,York and Quincy.
Portable air compressors
Portable
air compressors run on either gas or
electricity, and are typically light and compact
enough to take with you to a job site. Some specialised
units run on low voltage for your car or
truck. These 12
volts compressor systems can
provide additional air while you are on the
road or at a camping site. Other portable
or often called pancake compressors are essential
for wood workers who work off site, and may
even be perfect for hobby woodworkers who
do not require the kind of power provided
by a large shop-style compressor.
Medical
air compressors
For
medical applications special low noise and
clean air units are needed. Specialised products
such as Copeland
compressors provide machines for this special need.
The
air compressor you choose will be based on
your own wood working needs. However, power
and affordability should be the determining factor
for any wood worker – if you are going
to use your compressor a lot, it is worth investing
in a more advanced model. It is thus very important
to examine your own needs when contemplating
compressors.
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