Air compressor

[Kyle Stapleton]

We are moving schools at the end of the so we are upgrading tools now so all of the wiring can be done now and not down the road.

Sooo, I'm looking for recommendations for a larger air compressor (new or used) that can handle 18+ scfm so we can run 3M air tools like sanders and die grinders. (3M is close by so we get grants from them)

Thanks,

[Ajcoholic]

Currently I have a 10 HP Ingersoll-Rand, with a 120 gallon tank. I keep the tank pressure at 150 PSI and my lines regulated to 95 PSI to run my tools, and you can run sanders, etc pretty well. We had a 10 HP DeVilbiss previously and it was a great compressor as well.

I know from experience, a 5HP will be minimum for air tools, but it will be running pretty much all the time. If you can swing a 15 HP that would be even better for multiple tools running at the same time.

[bleeth]

I agree. A 5HP is too light, particularly those "5HP" rated ones from the big box stores that really aren't and burn out in no time.
There are a lot of good ones out there. Ingersall Rand (I also have a 10HP/80 for 8 years now with no problems) and Curtiss are two, but not all. 60 gallon is minimal but will be running a lot and 2 DA's will use it up. 80 or greater is much better.
10HP running off 3PH would be the least. If you get lucky, or the school finds some money then a screw compressor would be the best way to go.
The other part of the equation is the drier. Separators are not enough to keep water out of the lines. Your compressor should have an automatic timed relief valve (this is an add-on part) to get rid of the accumulation in the bottom of the tank and a separate air drier to get rid of what will be in the lines.

[Kyle Stapleton]

We will be buying this on our own from the money we make in the shop, so anything over 1,500 will be out of reach. We will be putting a time relief on it to keep the water down and putting in in-line filters. I know this is not the best way of doing things.

[bleeth]

Then I think the best way for you to go could be used market.
Mine was a little over 2.1k new.
Or maybe check out Dayton's (Grainger)

[feinddj]

I got a Kaiser 3phase through Craig's list. Took a bit of hunting. 3ph is actually pretty cheap as people don't realize they would have to get a lot of extra equipment to run it at their home shop.

D

[harold_weber]

(new or used),

Just wanted to say that if you look at used compressors, you want one with a tank that meets ASME codes, and I would have the tank inspected for rust inside. A tank that has been poorly maintained is VERY :eek: dangerous.

I bought a 5HP 2-stage Quincy in 1997 and have been very happy with it, but it can only drive one Dynabrade sander.

[Ajcoholic]

My IR was just under $6K new in 2010. I bet it will run until I retire in 20 - 25 years... easily. These larger two stage compressors with oil sump run very long if kept clean (air filter on intake) and change the oil once and a while.

For $1500 you're going to have to look used for sure. But if maintained, they should be very useable for years to come.

I would also recommend an automatic drain as Dave suggested. I have one on my compressor timed to open for 5 seconds every 45 minutes. Keeps the water out of the air lines. Depending upon your climate, additional dryers/separators will be necessary. Here, I have a trap/separator at each drop and a more sophisticated oil/watrer separators and a dessicant water remover at my spray booth. No need for a refridge unit here, its too dry. Never have moisture in my lines.

[Kyle Stapleton]

Looking at a used Rolair Model number V530K30B-19, 3 phase 208, any thoughts?
Any recamendtions for the ADV?

[bleeth]

This is an honest 5HP and the 80 gal tank will help but it will have an issue running more than one or maybe two sanders at a time.
The price doesn't seem that attractive for an older unit.

[bleeth]

Too late to edit: 1200 for this is a decent price but I still think it is too light in HP for your long term satisfaction.

[Kyle Stapleton]

There is also one for 700 but it is 12 yrs old from a car wash.
I would like a 7.5 hp but I need to buy by May.

[bleeth]

I understand your pressure. I would be nervous about the one from the car wash too but if you check it out in person, it looks good and clean, and drain some water from the bottom if it doesn't have a lot of rust then they may have maintained it well. 12 years for a 7 1/2 HP 3PH motor is not a huge age, although in that environment it was definitely running all day 7 days a week. Make sure you inspect the oil and, if possible, the service record. With their use it should have had the oil changed at least every 12 months if not more.

[Kyle Stapleton]

Ok newest one,
speedair model # is 1WD63 only 6 yr old and only used as a backup.

[jerry_stanek]

go to HGR industrial and look at what they have There are a few 10 hp 3 phase units

[Kyle Stapleton]

Thanks, good site a lot of good stuff there.

[Ajcoholic]

Kyle,
Someone just posted a used 15 HP Ingersoll Rand up on Woodweb (in the machinery exchange) for $1500. I would say 15 HP would allow 2 or 3 air sanders running at once easily. If its in good shape thats a great price.

AJC

[Kyle Stapleton]

Thanks for all the help, but I guess the school district just bought us a compressor. They did not say want kind or how big, but will post when I find out.

Thanks again.
On the to the vacuum...