Best Air Compressor
Table of Contents
- Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor
- Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor
- Campbell Hausfield FP209499 Air Compressor
- Porter Cable C2002-WK Air Compressor
- DEWALT D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Air Compressor
- Makita Mac5200 Air Compressor
- Porter Cable PCFP02003
- Air Nailers
- Reputable Brands of Air Nailers
- Safety and Use of Air Nailers
- Air Wrench
- Reputable Brands of Air Wrenches
- Proper Usage of Air Wrenches
- Portable Air Compressors
Whether you’re looking to get more information on air compressors or you’re ready to purchase a specific model, we’ve got the solution for you on this site…
Air compressors are typically available as gas or electrically powered units, and they are widely used in the industrial and automotive sector. Depending on your application, you may need lower or higher horsepower as well as a smaller or larger air tank, which can go as high as 80 gallons.
If you’re just going camping with the family and need a portable compressor, you shouldn’t spend anymore than $200-$500. However, for more robust applications, its not uncommon to spend between $1500-$3000 and up.
For those new to the subject, choosing an air compressor can be a daunting task. Ranging from ultra portable to heavy as a rock, there’s an endless selection to choose from.
Some are designed for use around the home. Others are designed for heavy duty industrial usage. There’s also the small matter of noise to consider, some are loud enough to make ear protection very much mandatory.
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) is the body that governs the quality and safety of air compressors, and its a good idea to buy a model that is ASME certified. The most important safety component is the air safety release valve, which allows air to escape if excessive pressure builds inside the tank, as specified by the law.
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Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor
Whether you’re looking for a way to use pneumatic tools in a garage or at a job site, the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor is a great tool to have in your corner.
As you probably already know, Makita is one of the world’s best known tool manufacturers. For decades they’ve been supplying hard working people with the high quality, high performance tools they need. And they’ve built on their already stellar reputation with the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor. This is a high powered, easy to use air compressor that’s made to deliver consistent performance wherever you need it.
Quieter Air Compression
When you deal with air compressors, it’s an unwritten rule that things are going to get loud. That’s not the case with the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor, though. This air compressor is significantly quieter than other models. In fact, there aren’t many large, powerful air compressors that can deliver quiet, constant air pressure like the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor. If you’re tired of your eardrums taking a beating, you’ll enjoy using this air compressor.
Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor Features
- Constructed with a cast iron pump and large cylinder and piston for greater stroke and bore for maximum air compressor performance.
- Quiet performance. The noise levels generated with this model are significantly quieter than others in its class.
- Draws low amps to prevent tripped breakers and voltage drops
- Pump is oil lubricated to run cooler and reduce wear
- Comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturers
Pros
- Cool running pump. Since the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor uses an oil-lubricated pump, it runs cooler for longer life.
- Quiet operation. I can’t stand it when an air compressor rattles my hearing. With the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor, operation is much quieter than I’m used to hearing from other models.
- Cast iron construction makes this model one of the most durable air compressors on the market.
Cons
- Maintenance. Since the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor has an oil-lubricated motor, you’ve got to stay on top of the maintenance.
- Heavy. Cast iron weighs a log, so this model is a bit heavier than models that use an aluminum pump.
Maintenance is not a huge issue with this air compressor, as it’s mostly about keeping the engine lubed for good performance. If you work with tools, you’ll find the regular maintenance to be simple to perform.
Anyone who wants an air compressor that delivers consistent air pressure for pneumatic tools or inflation jobs will appreciate and get a lot of good use out of the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor. We highly recommend this Makita model to all of our readers. You need tools that perform well under pressure, and that’s just what you get with the Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor.
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Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor
The Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor is one of the most in-demand models among people who settle for nothing but the best when it comes to tools. And since Makita is known as the world’s leading company for pneumatic tools, it only makes sense that they know a thing or two about designing a reliable air compressor.
The Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor delivers on all fronts and gives you the performance that you’d expect from one of the world’s leading air tool manufacturers.
Tough Pump
The heart of any air compressing unit is in the pump. After all, the air is compressed by the pump, so it only makes sense that units with superior quality pumps are simply better air compressors. The Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor features as good a pump as you would want form an air compressor. It’s built from durable cast iron and oil lubricated. That means that it’s resistant to everyday abuse, and runs cool to stay protected from excessive wear. You’ll have a hard time finding an air compressor with a better pump than the Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor.
Makita MAC2400 Features
- The pump is oil lubricated to run cool and minimize wear
- Cast iron pump is built to be used day-in-and-day-out for long product life
- Pump is easy to maintain
- Integrated thermal overload to protect the motor
- Air filter is big and built to increase air intake and provide overall better performance
- Comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer
Makita MAC2400 Pros
- Tough. I expect my tools to be tough and able to withstand regular use and abuse. The Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor is tough and since it’s made from tough, rugged steel, it’s a compressor that will last for years, even if it’s used every day.
- Cool Running. The pump is oil lubricated, so it runs at a cooler temperature than some of the “maintenance free” pumps. This means that the pump will perform well without suffering from excessive breakdowns.
- Big air filter. The air filter on this model is similar to what you’d see in an automotive shop’s air compressor. That means it pulls in more air to use on the job.
Makita MAC2400 Cons
- Maintenance. The cost of a cool-running, oil lubricated pump is regular maintenance. You have to stay on top of keeping this model lubricated to keep the pump protected from damage.
- Loud. Make no mistakes; this is a powerful air compressor. As such, you can expect the noise levels to be pretty high when you operate this unit. It’s no louder than most other models, but it certainly isn’t the quietest air compressor on the market.
Even though you have to perform somewhat regular maintenance to keep the Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor in good operating condition, the pump does remove easily to perform this maintenance. And since the end result of the maintenance is longer life and less breakdowns, it’s more than worth the little bit of extra effort. If you’re ready for a tough, powerful air compressor, you can’t go wrong with the Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor.
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Campbell Hausfield FP209499 Air Compressor
Clocking in at just under 80 dollars, the Campbell Hausfield is a budget air compressor designed for small jobs. In the past, I’ve had pretty bad experiences with sub $100 compressors but I was pleasantly surprised with the FP209499. Is it the best budget air compressor on the market? Read on to find out.
Power
The first thing that you should understand about the FP209499 is that it’s designed exclusively for light tasks. If you want a compressor for tires or nail guns, it does the job perfectly, albeit a little slowly. If you’re looking to power an x or x, increase your budget and look elsewhere.
Maximum power is approximately 110 PSI and to reach this, you need a charge of approximately 6 minutes. For nail gun use, this means you can get approximately 40 nails and then charge it again in the time it takes you to have a coffee.
Portability
The primary selling point of the FP209499 is its price. That’s not the only perk however. Thanks to its admittedly meagre specs, it’s also lightweight and therefore very portable. At just under 19 pounds, it can easily be moved from A to B without the need for wheels or a trailer.
Durability
The tank itself appears well built and provided its well maintained, it’s likely to last a number of years. The recoil hose however is one of the worst that I’ve ever seen. They’re not expensive to replace so it’s not necessarily a deal breaker but I still question the manufacturers motives here. The rest of the accessories are of a much higher standard.
Accessories
Speaking of accessories, there’s a generous selection considering the modest price tag. And other than the aforementioned recoil hose, I’ve been happy with the rest of them. The exact accessories are:
• A blow gun • Two male plugs • A female coupler • Two inflation needles • An inflation adapter • A tapered inflation nozzle. • An air chuck • PTFE tape
Noise Levels
Quite a few customer reviews complained about excessive noise levels and I can confirm that the FP209499 certainly isn’t quiet. In saying that however, we’re only talking about ten percent louder than $100 plus models. I think that most of the noise complaints arise from people who have never owned a compressor before. And I can speak from experience when I say that the first compressor you purchase is always going to seem loud regardless of the model.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews for the Hausfield are mixed. 39 people rated the product 5 stars. Another 40 however, gave it 2 stars or less. Judging from the content of the actual reviews however, I think that the primary problem is with the customers, not the product. This is a budget air compressor that’s simply not designed for heavy use. Expect more than that and expect to be disappointed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re after a cheap air compressor to handle minor jobs, the Hausfield certainly has a lot going for it. It’s not perfect but it’s certainly better than most compressors at this price point. Provided you understand just what this compressor can and cannot do, I think it makes for a great budget friendly purchase.
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Porter Cable C2002-WK Air Compressor
A regular best seller on Amazon, the Porter Cable C2002 provides 150 PSI worth of power for just under $140. With 13 different accessories, it has the potential to power just about any household tool. Can such a cheap air compressor really power every air tool in your garage? Read on to find out.
Power
For $140, 150 PSI is very impressive but it’s important to understand what this compressor will and will not do. If you’re looking to pump tires or power a nail gun, it’s a fantastic choice. But if you’re expecting industrial power, it’s going to fall short. Like all compressors, check the exact requirements of your favourite tools before you make your purchase.
Portability
If there’s one area where the C2002 really shines it’s in the portability department. Weighing just 34 pounds, it can easily be moved from one job to another without the use of wheels. It’s small size also makes it perfect for those who want a compressor but don’t really have space for one.
Attachments
The C2002 comes complete with no less than 13 different attachments which considering the price is very generous. Provided a tool doesn’t need more than 150 PSI, chances are you can connect it without an additional purchase. The specific attachments are:
• 25 feet nylon hose. • Blow gun and attachments • Tire gauge • Tire chuck • Quick coupler • Various plugs. • Teflon tape
Durability
Overall, the C2002 appears well made. There’s no roll cage so it’s not really suitable for use on a construction site but for regular home use, that’s not an issue. I’ve had mine now for just over a year and apart from a few dings, it looks and acts like new. I have read a few Amazon reviews that suggested problems after a years use but I haven’t personally experienced them.
Verdict
In conclusion, the C2002 appears to deserve it’s best seller status on Amazon. It’s far from the most powerful compressor on the market but then again, it never claims to be. If all you want is a reliable, portable air compressor to keep your air tools in power, you’d be hard pushed to find a better product at a better price. It’s wide range of accessories also make it perfect for those who want a no fuss solution to their air related problems.
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DEWALT D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Air Compressor
Serious jobs call for serious tools; The DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor is the air compressor of choice for people who demand the power of a large, commercial unit from a smaller, more manageable tool. No matter where you need air pressure, you can count on the DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor, because it’s powerful, while still being light enough to carry around the job site.
And if you do projects around the house, you don’t want to sacrifice compression power for ease of storage. Fortunately, you get both when you own the DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor.
More Pressure When You Need It
Whether you’re using a paint sprayer or a pneumatic wrench, you know the importance of having a quick-recovering air compressor. Some of the portable air compressors, currently available, don’t recover quickly enough to be of much use in the field. But since the DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor gives you 3.2 CFM at 100 Psi, it recovers quickly enough to keep your tools powered for drive after drive of consistent performance. That means jobs get done faster, and you don’t have to work harder than you ought to, just to get your projects done on time.
DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor Features
- Built with an oil-lubricated pump for improved durability
- Cast iron cylinder is built to withstand constant use without breaking down
- Lightweight, at just 58 pounds, the DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor can be moved to any location with ease
- Delivers 3.2 DFM at 100 PSI for quick recovery and consistent performance
- Built with the legendary DeWalt high quality standards
DeWalt D55151 Pros
- Portable. The DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor isn’t a tiny, 20 pound air compressor, but it is relatively light and simple to move around from one location to another, and stores nicely.
- Powerful. This air compressor is on par with the bigger, commercial units when it comes to raw, air compression power. That means you get better performance when using pneumatic tools.
- Tough. The construction of the DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor is geared toward durability. This is a tool that will obviously last for a long time.
DeWalt D55151 Cons
- Loud. Since the DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor delivers so much air compression power, it is understandably louder than some of the small air compressors on the market.
- Best for Small to Mid-Sized Jobs. While you could use this compressor on bigger jobs, it is not cut out to run an entire crew’s worth of air tools.
Chances are, if you’re reading this DeWalt D55151 14 Amp 2-1/2-HP 4-Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor review, you are looking for a portable, yet powerful air compressor. With all this model has going for it, we recommend it to anyone who needs the maximum power from a smaller, easy to transport air compressor.
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Makita Mac5200 Air Compressor
If you’re looking for a compressor that will stand the test of time, the Makita Mac5200 has had ten years to prove itself and it’s still going strong today. Of course, Makita products are rarely cheap and the 5200 is no exception. It is it worth almost 400 dollars? Read on to find out.
Performance
The MAC5200 is equipped with a three HP motor that produces 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI. This makes the compressor compatible with most household tools. It’s also sufficient power to make short work of nearly all of them. It can be used to power two nail guns simultaneously. The Big Bore cylinder ensures minimal recovery time while the 120 Volt engine is equally impressive.
Portability
Makita seems to have gone to great lengths to make the MAC5200 as portable as possible and this is reflected in the final design. The heavy duty wheels and handle make it an easy compressor to move, even over uneven surfaces. The handle folds down for easy storage and can still be operated afterwards which I think is a nice touch.
The built in storage compartment stores all the bits and pieces making it even easier to get from A to B. At a total weight of 104 pounds, there’s no denying that it’s a heavy machine but this is largely to be expected of an air compressor of this size.
Durability
In terms of durability, the MAC5200 also scores highly. The entire machine appears well built and multiple customer reviews have praised its performance over the long term. I particularly like the heavy duty roll cage construction. It seems tough enough to protect the pump and motor assembly from anything short of a sledge hammer.
There used to be regular complaints about the wheels, but Makita appears to have fixed the problem. I have not been able to find any complaints dated after 2011.
Sound
Despite being advertised as a quiet air compressor, the MAC5200 emits noise levels that are decidedly average. At approximately 90 decibels, it’s quieter than most oil free compressors but a little louder than you’d expect from the oiled variety.
I wouldn’t consider this a reason not to purchase the device but I do think it’s a reason for the word quiet to be removed from its marketing description.
Reviews
Reviews for the MAC5200 are generally favourable with an average of 4.3 stars out of 5. This is made more impressive by the fact that most of the negative reviews complained about poor wheels, a problem which Makita has since resolved. The most popular features appear to be portability, general performance and long term durability.
Verdict
If you’re going to spend 340 dollars on a 140 PSI compressor, you expect a quality product and that’s just what Makita has provided. There are certainly cheaper, and smaller options, out there but if you’re thinking long term, the 5200 makes a lot of sense. While not necessarily powerful for some professional purposes, the average consumer will be very pleased with what is a very high quality machine.
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Porter Cable PCFP02003
Clocking in at just under a hundred dollars, the Porter-Cable PCFP02003 is one of the cheapest pancake compressors currently on the market. But just what sacrifices have been made to get there? Read on to find out. Power
Considering the 100 dollar price tag, you can’t expect much power from the PCF and you don’t get much either. 135 PSI will handle tires and nail guns with ease but if you’re planning using anything more powerful, it’s important to look elsewhere.
The 120 Volt motor is ideal for cold weather operation and the compressor is equipped with quick couplers for speedy connections. Like Porter Cable compressors, recovery time is minimal.
Noise Level
The PCF emits 82dBA decibels which is about average for a compressor of this size. Unlike more powerful compressors, the noise levels are tolerable indoors but still not particularly enjoyable. If you’d like an even quieter compressor, I recommend the Senco PC1010.
Portability
Weighing just 26 pounds, the weight of the PCF is probably its biggest selling point. Throw in the pancake shaped tank that’s less than 20 inches wide and you have a compressor that you can easily take just about anywhere. Keep in mind however that there’s no roll cage so trips to the construction site may lead to inconvenient explosions.
Durability
Despite its low price, the PCF doesn’t feel like a cheap product and you do get the impression that it was built to last. It’s oil free, so pretty much maintenance free, and multiple customer reviews have claimed over a year of regular use without problems. It’s also worth noting that its both american made and backed by a one year limited warranty.
Attachments
Unlike the C2002, the PCF doesn’t come with a single attachment. This means that unless you already own a hose, you’re going to have to buy one separately. Depending on your length requirements, you can expect to pay between ten and thirty dollars. I still think the PCF offers good value but there’s definitely an argument for spending 50 dollars extra and just getting the C2002 altogether.
Reviews
Reviews of the PCF are generally positive with an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5. Like the C2002, the primary selling point appears to be the low price and equally low weight. The only negative reviews I can find appear to suggest that after a years use, the compressor becomes unreliable. I’m not sure how much weight to give these claims however considering there’s only 3 negative reviews compared to over 30 reviews giving four stars or more.
Verdict
Overall, the PCF offers exceptional value. And if you’re set on staying under a hundred dollars, you’ll struggle to find a better purchase. 135 PSI is more than enough for x and x and what you lose in power, you gain in portability.
My only gripe is the lack of a hose. If you happen to have a spare in the garage, I think it’s the perfect purchase. If you don’t however, the C2002 is probably a smarter buy.
Air Nailers
High tech pneumatic air nailers have been popular over the last several years. These have been the preferred choice for all construction work as these have been efficient to work with.
It would be very difficult to find construction projects that don’t utilize them, or woodworking shops that don’t sell them. Air nailers have been classified on the type that holds specific usages in construction.
Both hobbyists and serious professionals have sought these air nailers for the different projects like building a house, wooden play decks for children, construct shingles and sidings, etc.
There are separate nailers for different types of work, such as the brad nailer for joining thin slabs of wood, finish nailers for home interior trims and areas where the nails need to be concealed from the naked eye, and framing nailers that are used for house remodeling and major woodwork projects.
There are the special nailers that can be used to construct floorings, roofings, and sidings, but due to its being expensive and its limited usage, these special nailers are available for rental purposes. There are also the palm nailers that appear like closed funnels, which are useful for tight spaces, but you have to use ear plugs when using this, because it generates a lot of noise during operation.
Reputable Brands of Air Nailers
The best brand names for air nailers include Bostitch, Stanley, Porter Cable, Paslode, DeWalt, Hitachi, Senco, Makita, Ryobi, Bosch, and Craftsman. The prices of these air nailer brands range from $175 all the way to $275. One great option, the Bostitch F21PL makes use of 1.5 to 3.5 inch nails and can also do metal connectors. This nailer is relatively lightweight and made of magnesium, and is powerful with more than 1,000 per inch pounds of force.
Then you have the Paslode 900420 Impulse Cordless Framing Nailer meanwhile, which is the top in the air nailer field. It is also lightweight, can shoot 2 to 3 nails per second, and is very ideal for light framing and remodeling works. Although some users have complained about the Paslode having operating problems at high elevations and during extreme cold and hot weather, it nonetheless was given positive feedback by homeowners on its performance on home maintenance as well as some light construction.
Safety and Use of Air Nailers
Air nailers are generally efficient tools that need proper care and usage. In comparison, air nails are 12 to 20 times faster than manual nailing. Productivity increases from 400 to 800 percent. These tools definitely save on time and money considerably, and their competitiveness is unequalled.
The air nailers have a host of uses for the average homeowner and construction worker. It can be used for trim work for wooden sidings. But it is worthy to note that air nailers are both powerful and dangerous. Appropriate and careful attention must be given when using the air nailer, as even the slightest mistake in handling and operation can cause injury to the user and even to the people around him.
It is very important to read and understand the accompanying manual for operation before even starting to use this modern tool. Safety precautions must also be observed, such as operating distances, protective devices, and even keeping children away from the air nailers even when not operated upon.
Air Wrench
An air wrench, also known as air gun, impactor, impact wrench, torque gun, and rattle gun is a power tool constructed to give maximum torque output with little effort by the user, by gathering energy within a rotating accumulation and then boosting it swiftly to the output shaft.
Compressed air is the common power source and the air wrench is extensively used in many industries, primarily in automotive repair, heavy equipment maintenance, product assembly lines, major construction projects, and other works that require high torque output.
In operating the air wrench, a rotating mass or hammer is run by the motor, accumulating energy, then immediately connected to the output shaft or anvil, delivering a high torque impact. The hammer mechanism continues to spin freely after delivering the impact, creating continuous operation of the air wrench. With this operation, high torque is delivered in every work, with the user or operator hardly making any effort in the process.
Reputable Brands of Air Wrenches
The best brands of air wrenches include Porter Cable, Ingersoll Rand, Skil, DeWalt, Makita, Kawasaki, Hitachi, Ryobi,Bosch, and Chicago. These brands cost anywhere from $100 to $400 and up, depending on the make and model of the air wrench. The air wrench that operates on air compressors supply you with the best power-to-weight ratio compared to the electric and cordless versions.
The Ingersoll Rand brand of air wrenches comes out to be the best-selling product in the field because its Ingersoll Rand 231 C ½-inch Air Impact Wrench costs about $100. The DeWalt DC820 KA Heavy Duty 18-volt 1/2 -inch Compact Impact Wrench is also a popular choice, unfortunately it costs more than 2-1/2 times more than its Ingersoll Rand counterpart. The other brands have their costs ranging from $200 to $300 dollars with their performance almost equal to the leading brand.
These brands have been tried and tested by diesel mechanics, do-it-yourself homeowners, and other industrial workers and their individual performances as to the torque they deliver and their performance durability have been duly recognized.
Overall, the Ingersoll Rand 231 C ½-inch Super Duty Air Impact Wrench is a high quality air tool that is recognized by mechanics and home users to be a very6 worthy tool. It has features like pressure driven lubrication, an adjustable power regulator, and streamlined contour handle, and does well in different types of environments.
Proper Usage of Air Wrenches
Basically, the air wrench is a lot powerful than your handheld socket set. You may be tempted to discard your manual set after enjoying the efficient use of your air wrench. The air wrench is a good tool to start with, as it can negotiate in tight places and get those tight nuts loosened. The days of sore and bloodied knuckles are over with these air wrenches that offer a whole new world of difference and very convenient to use.
The sockets are similar to your own socket sets and they immediately snap right on the tool. You can readily see the great improvement in your pace of work the moment you try the air wrench in your next automotive project. You always have to remember to read the instruction manual and make sure to observe all the necessary safety precautions.
Portable Air Compressors
Air compressors wouldn’t be much use to anyone if there were not portable versions. Sure a stationary air compressor might be a good idea but a portable one adds so many more possibilities to the construction industry. You can’t imagine how far we have come just on compressed air. We no longer have to hammer nails manually, and we no longer need to use electricity at the construction site if we do not want to. What does this mean? Well it does mean that we no longer have to swap out batteries, but there are a few drawbacks to using a portable air compressor.
One major drawback is the fact that most air compressors are run on gasoline, and it can get very expensive to run them over time. You also have the fact that the hoses have a limited range. You can get hoses that will cover your entire construction site, but then you run the risk of it becoming kinked. This is where things get interesting. You either have to find it yourself, or you have to tell the new worker to go find the kink.
Naturally the advantages of an air compressor outweigh the disadvantages. Without it everything would simply need to be done by hand, which just isn’t acceptable on jobs these days. This is because time is everything in the construction industry. Often you will have severe time limits on the completion of projects. For instance the bank might not pay the workers until a certain amount of the project is completed. If they were to use manual tools, they might not be able to complete the project in time.
With the portable air compressor the time is cut in half and the workers will move at a faster pace. Where worker would once spend up to one minute pounding a nail in, they can now shoot the same nail out of the gun in less than one second, meaning that framing is done faster than ever before. This is definitely an improvement over the previous system.
There are plenty of different brands of portable air compressors. Some of the more popular brands out there are Grip-Rite, Jenny, Craftsman, and DeWalt. They are all of solid construction, even though you will need to pay quite a bit of money to get started. Rest assured, the production boost they cause will more than cover the price you pay up front.
Remember to use your portable air compressor to it’s full potential. In other words place it somewhere that the hoses will reach easily, but make sure that it is out of the elements. You may have to leave it at the work site for weeks at a time, but that doesn’t mean everyone has to see it, and you certainly don’t want it to be rained or snowed on. That being the case, keep it safe, and enjoy the savings your portable generator brings.