I have 2 compressors I am using. I have a 4hp single stage in the
garage I paint in. This is adequate for painting and running body
sanders, but is running pretty much continuously with sanders. I have
a cooling system on this compressor. I attached an air conditioning
condenser to the inside of the exhaust fan. Air goes from the tank to
the top of the condenser. At the bottom of the condenser is a small
water/oil trap with a filter. This has stopped the air tools from
spitting water and the air is dry enough to paint with.
For shop use I have an old 2 stage industrial compressor with a 5 hp
motor I got from Graingers. I use this for grinders, impact tools,
pressure feed sandblaster, and glass bead cabinet. This just about keeps
up with everything except for having to wait for pressure buildup
during sandblasting.
It looks like the hp ratings of the new compressors are somewhat
inflated. To get a more realistic hp number for comparison, multiply the
volts and amps from the markings on the name plate and devide by 880.
(746W/hp / 85%eff). This will give an approximate true hp rating. A
real 5hp motor will draw at least 20 amps from a 220V circuit.
If you will be using the compressor for sandblasting or glass beads, you
will want at least a 5hp 2 stage.
You might want to look to see if there are any used industrial
compressors available in your area. I would rather have a used
industrial than a new inexpensive single stage unit.
Just my $.02 worth.
Fred Mill
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