PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Minimum size air tank to run pneumatic tools?

Jarod · #11 12-11-2021, 11:21 AM

The key with air tools is tank size is only reserve capacity. its how long can you run a tool.

A 1 gallon compressor will run any tool, it may only run it for 5 seconds before it needs to kick on, but it will run it.

I've got a 20 gallon "5hp" (peak rated) craftsman compressor that makes around 8CFM, it'll run any of my air tools, 3/4 impact, DA sander, paint gun, you name it, but with high consumption tools you'd need to take a break and let it recharge air after a few minutes of sanding or impact use, the pump can't keep up so it would run all the time and pressure would drop to where the tool didn't have any power unless you stop every few minutes.

I got a much larger 80 gallon true 5hp compressor for my shop (5hp running, much more peak) that produces over 20 CFM, and it will run any tool I have non stop basically without breaking a sweat, cycles on and off as if you're barely using any air.

Cordless tools have gotten so good, if I wasn't running a shop, I'd never bother with air tools at this point in time. They're more portable, nearly as powerful, or in some cases more powerful, plus being able to charge them and use them anywhere you have 12v like in your car, as well as at home where there is 110v AC power makes it super conveniant.