Need a new compressor, any suggestions?

RDT

RDT

Joined
Dec 17, 1999
Messages
4,117
Hi all,
Need a new Air Compressor. What I had TWICE were Grizzy compressor of only about 25 gallon capacity. They just barely did the job and usually after having to refill them a few times. Anyone know where I can get a decent and pretty powerful Ai Compressor around herte? One strictly for bead blasting. As well, what do you recommend for a good fast bead blast. In other words, what MAX PSI? how many CFM? How many Gallons is sufficient? all the technical info. I have a blast cabinet and all that syuff. But have been running with the must tedious set up ever and need something faster and economical as well. Thanks a million, take care....Rich
 
Rich, I have a Quincy (American made) that is the cat's meow as far as quality, but it does have the same capacity problem you note in your post for some air tools or bead blasting. Mine is a 220v, 25 gallon, 5hp model, rated for 9.5 CFM @90 psi, with a max working pressure of 125 psi. For most high-end air tools and the larger bead blasting cabinets you will need something in the range of 12 - 20 CFM at 90 psi. Ideally, it would have a 50 - 75 gallon tank. Depending on use, you may want to look at a two-stage unit with a max working pressure of 175 psi. My experience has been that you get what you pay for in compressors and always buy one a little larger than you think you will need. You can get by with the smaller units, but they will run continuously during some operations. If you can do without portability, look at an upright model.
 
The problem I've found is the extremely subjective way that manufactureres rate their motors on compressors(they frikkin lie!!!) .

I also have a Quincy compressor. It's a 120V, 3 1/2HP(yeah right):rolleyes: , 20-25 gallon, and it's too small.

I would get a Quincy, with a minimum 5HP, 240V, with a 60, or 80 gallon tank, two stage would be even better.

When you get the air hose fittings(connectors, and couplings), get Di Vilbiss. They are head, and shoulders above the cheap a$$ fittings, and they transfer air without dropping pressure 50# every time you pull the trigger. There are differences in those BTW, and in tests, Di Vilbiss always came out on top.
Something like that can make a big difference in the useability of a compressor.
 
Mike Hull said:
The problem I've found is the extremely subjective way that manufactureres rate their motors on compressors(they frikkin lie!!!) .

I also have a Quincy compressor. It's a 120V, 3 1/2HP(yeah right):rolleyes: , 20-25 gallon, and it's too small.

I would get a Quincy, with a minimum 5HP, 240V, with a 60, or 80 gallon tank, two stage would be even better.

When you get the air hose fittings(connectors, and couplings), get Di Vilbiss. They are head, and shoulders above the cheap a$$ fittings, and they transfer air without dropping pressure 50# every time you pull the trigger. There are differences in those BTW, and in tests, Di Vilbiss always came out on top.
Something like that can make a big difference in the useability of a compressor.
Click to expand...

I have always had pretty good luck with Milton, but have no aversion to changing since I need some new fittings anyway. Are the Devilbis that much better?
 
Yes! You can see the difference in just looking at them. The DVB's are almost straight through, while the Milton's are smaller in diameter, and have crimps in the passageways.
I think that test was in a compressor magazine. I can't remember the name unfortunately, but I'm sure DVB could tell you.;) :D

I got my fittings from a paint supply store that handles DVB.

Before that, I'd been using the fittings you buy from Harbor Freight. Either Miltons, or look alike's, and I could barely get my blades bead blasted.
After switching the fittings to DVB, it's much easier, even though I'm using a marginally powered compressor.
 
I have recently researched this and honestly, I have found that Ingersoll Rand makes a great compressor, for a hell of a deal, for those who don't want to spend $1K or more.
Ingersoll Rand SS3L3.
It is a 3hp 60 gal compressor with 11.3 cfm @90psi and 10.3cfm @ 135psi. This is a TRUE 3hp compressor. It is STRONGER most of the Craftsman and Husky 7hp compressors. MANY of the 5hp and even 7hp compressors you see are only 5 or 7 PEAK hp, and they are actually 3hp running.
I HIGHLY suggest the SS3L3. I got mine for $535.00 from Grainger, and Northern Tool and Equiptment has them for like $565. You just can't beat it. Ingersoll Rand is a TOP name too.
GREAT warranties.
Don't go out and buy a Husky (campbell hausfeld) or a Craftsman, when you can get MUCH better for the same or LESS $$.
You WILL NOT be sorry with this compressor.
However, IF you are wanting to spend a TON of $$, then the larger Ingersoll Rands or Quincys are a better, but you don't need them for knifemaking..
 
New guy here but not to this subject. I've posted this link a number of times to other forums over the years and it is the best overview of compressors I've ever read. http://www.practicalmachinist.com/ubb/Forum8/HTML/000039.html

TP Tools is another good resource for blasting equipment and compressors and air handling equipment. http://www.tptools.com/default.asp?mscssid=5LWNHVBW1J028JLTP10JM4Q69UNH72A5 Somewhere on their site there are diagrams showing recommended ways of installing air lines.

Hop this is helpful.

Allen
 
WOW! Too much info...LOL Thanks for all the help guys...much obliged!
 
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