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Learn how to properly size your piston compressor based on your needs
Air compressors should be sized based on the volume of air (cfm/m3h) and air pressure (psi/bar) needed to do the job and not horse power. Single stage air compressors have a maximum pressure of around 130 psi (9 bar) while two stage air compressors have a maxinum air pressure of 175 psi (12 bar). Tank size is typically not a critical factor in sizing a compressor.
Calculating your need
Typical cfm consumption by tool
| Tool/Equipment | Air Pressure (psi) | Air Pressure (bar) | Air Consumed (cfm) | Air Consumed (l/s) |
| Impact Wrench 3/8-1/2 | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 5 | 2.36 |
| Impact Wrench 1/2-3/4 | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 10 | 4.72 |
| Impact Wrench 3/4-1 3/4 | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 20 | 9.44 |
| Air Ratchet | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 3-5 | 1.42-2.36 |
| Body Sander (Oribital) | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 12 | 5.66 |
| Tire Changer | 125-150 | 8.6-10.3 | 2 | 0.94 |
| Bead Breaker | 125-150 | 8.6-10.3 | 12 | 5.66 |
| Blow Gun | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 3 | 1.42 |
| Die Grinder | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 7 | 3.3 |
| Screwdriver #2-6 Screw | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 5 | 2.36 |
| Screwdriver #6-5/16 Screw | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 10 | 4.72 |
| Paint Spray Gun (Touch Up) | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 4 | 1.89 |
| Paint Spray Gun (HVLP) | 40-60 | 2.7-4.1 | 15 | 7.08 |
| Nailers/Staplers | 70-90 | 4.8-6.2 | 2-4 | 0.94-1.89 |
Regardless of the type of compressor you have, vibration issues can be troubling for any business. The root of the vibration can stem from multiple sources, some internally and others externally. Understanding the cause of the vibration and how to resolve them will be critical in keeping your compressor in proper working order.
Regardless of whether or not it actually freezes where you live, most winterization service recommendations are also basic, solid maintenance procedures that will help extend the life and operational efficiencies of air compressors regardless of whether you live in northern Maine or South Florida.
Your company purchased an air dryer for your compressor. One of the most common things we see in the industry are air dryers being stored on top of the compressors. Seems like a wasted space not being used on top of the compressor, right? Wrong.
