What air compressor?

[Richard DobsonParticipant @richarddobson72762]

Hello everyone. I've almost completed my first steam engine, a little 10V. I am now looking to purchase an air compressor inc appropriate filters. Can anyone recommend a decent make and accessories that won't break the bank account but won't break down after a few months either? Would be quite nice to know what pressure range I would need as well regarding PSI or BAR.

[Richard DobsonParticipant @richarddobson72762]

Looking to buy air compressor

[John HaineParticipant @johnhaine32865]

RDG Tools do a little airbrush compressor with reservoir at a not unreasonable price I believe.

[mechman48Participant @mechman48]

I have a small air brush compressor, with reservoir, bought off eBay quite reasonably, I have run my S10V, Stuart progress, S50, plus small oscillators from it all at approx 3 – 10 psi with no probs apart from the volume requirement, which keeps the compressor kicking in, does get overwarm after prolonged running, only to be expected for these, but it is quiet so no major probs. For the small engines we do, you shouldn't need more than 4 bar . I also have a Clarke ranger which gives me the higher pressure, 116 psi / 8bar & better volume, 24 litre, should I need it, but they are noisy, If you can afford it I would suggest the …

​https://www.machinemart.co.uk/p/quiet-run-compressor-2/… usual disclaimer…

​I use the blue nylon air line ( 6mm od x 4mm id ) that simply push into fittings & attachments that can be bought easily & cheaply on eBay.

​George.

Edited By mechman48 on 30/05/2017 18:29:55

[mechman48Participant @mechman48]

… have a look at the fittings in the earlier thread… Air in the workshop…

George.

[Stuart BridgerParticipant @stuartbridger82290]

I would echo the need for a reservoir. I have an entry level Sparmax, without a reservoir. It is fine for its intended purpose, airbrushing​. It doesn't have quite enough oomph to drive my 10V though.

[Antony PowellParticipant @antonypowell28169]

It all depends upon what you want to run on air….

The pressure is important but for larger demand free air delivery (FAD) is more important.

This is usually measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or Liters per minute (LPM) the higher this is the more it will run.

A storage tank is also a factor as it allows the pump to rest or run a larger item for a short while, or a smaller item without having to run at all.

cost depends upon quality and size

I have found machine mart compressors to be OK, just remember to change the oil…..

Tony

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