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 Air Compressors		  New Topic  Topic Locked
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sodonnell
1st Mate

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76 Posts
Initially Posted - 12/29/2006 :  10:18:05  Show Profile
Looking for an opinion.
I got a small 3 gallon air compressor for Christmas.
I intend on doing some paint/gelcoat repair before the season comes.

Is a 3 gallon to small? I would think it is.
I'm not repainting large sections but I don't know where to begin with this.

Scott
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Leon Sisson
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1893 Posts
Response Posted - 12/29/2006 :  10:48:29  Show Profile  Visit Leon Sisson's Homepage
The amount of practical work you can expect out of a compressor is related to HP, tank size, and duty cycle at the tool. Air tools, including spray guns, are rated in CFM@PSI continuous use (100% duty cycle), similar to the way power tools are rated in full load amps at a particular voltage. So just do the math, and figure the tank will allow you to intermitantly run a tool a little larger than the compressor could support in continuous use. With paint sprayers in particular, you'll need an inline pressure regulator, which will help reduce air consumption.

For example, let's say the compressor puts out 4CFM@90PSI, but you decide to regulate that down to 40PSI for spraying. That will stretch the average air volume available to around 5CFM@40PSI. Since you'll be letting up on the trigger frequently if painting a small area, your compressor could supply a gun even hungrier than 5CFM@40PSI, maybe up to 6CFM@40PSI. Did that make any sense?

-- Leon Sisson
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ClamBeach
Master Marine Consultant

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3072 Posts
Response Posted - 12/29/2006 :  17:40:01  Show Profile
I think for small areas, you will have plenty of air. (depending on your definition of small areas).
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djn
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1561 Posts
Response Posted - 12/29/2006 :  18:17:15  Show Profile
I am a part time custom bike painter and agree with both responses. If you are working with a relatively small area, you should be fine. You might have to wait a bit inbetween shots, but that won't cause any problems. The inline regulator is really good thing to have but a water accumulator is a must. They are cheap. When air becomes uncompressed any moisture condenses out and will end up in your paint. Cheers.
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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.