I'm debating on either getting a 60 gal air compressor that pushes out around 12 cfm or a portable gas one that has a 9 gallon tank and pushes out about the same cfm. Does the tank really matter when working with cutting tools, and small sandblasters? The only sandblaster I'll be using is the small hopper type that holds about 12 oz of sand at a time. Plus, with the portable, I can take it wherever I want. Out to the junkyard to bust bolts loose, and etc. The only draw back is the small tank. What are you opinions on smaller tanks?
Gas is expensive to run an air compressor! I would get the largest electrical one that's feasible for you, to sandblast with. As far as taking stuff off at a junkyard, use a battery powered sawsall or angle grinder! If you don't have these, look up a good buddy who'll let you borrow his, or some places like Home Depot or Lowes will rent them to you! P.S. I forgot to mention that there are some great battery operated tools nowadays! The new impact guns are absolutely fantastic!
Hmm, very good point. The electric 60 gal compressor I am wanting is also a 240 volt. I'll have to wire a new outlet to the breaker box. Any suggestions?
My rule of tool shopping is buy bigger than you think you'll need. That way you won't need to buy another when you skills/ confidence increse And I LOVE my 18volt DeWalt 1/2" impact, it and the sawzall are standard in my salvage yard kit.
To run power tools you will find that a compressor that puts out 12 cfm will be marginal at best and only provide about 5-7 minutes of sand-blast time before you have to stop and let the compressor build back up. Die grinders and air grinders use a lot of air - my 240V 14 cfm won't keep up with them. A large tank will give you a bit more time with a tool but the ideal situation is a big tank with a high capacity compressor.
