Compressors fall into three general areas; Small portable units like the Porter-Cable "Job Boss" often with one pancake or two small storage tanks, Mid-size units like Campbell-Hausfield, which normally have wheels, and large compressors have fixed bases for shops and industrial sites. In terms of capacities, smaller units start around 1.5 horse and larger unites can exceed 6 horse power motors. The pumps themselves are either oil-less or oil-lubricated and the pumps are one or two cylinder and singe of two-stage compressors .... and this last statement is the reason most wood workers don't have an air compressor, because they sound complicated.
Some of the useful terms that you should know about when looking for a compressor include: PSI - Pounds per square inch, CFM - Cubic feet per minute, Duty Cycle - is the amount of time a compressor can run compared to the amount of rest time (storage tank) over a 30 minute period ... such as it can operate for 10 minutes, then rest for 20 without creating significant head wear, Single Stage - is where the compression piston compresses all the air in one stroke, Two Stage - is where there are two pistons that work together to compress the air. (Generally a two stage requires less horse power, and produces less heat).
Air Compressor
As a rule, the types of tools that are harder on air volumes are those which run continuously like sanders, and grinders and cutters. Tools that require less cycling are tools that run intermittently like nailers, staplers and in some cases drills or even sprayers.
If you are planning on running some continuous tools like sanders, buffers, grinders and so on you will want to consider something in the mid-size or even large shop size of compressors like. In a case like this you should probably have a 25 gallon storage tank and around a 4 horse rating like a Makita or Craftsman. You will probably be looking at a 220 Volt version as well.
If you are planning on using a number of tools, some of them continuous draw, like grinders, sanders and buffers, you will want to consider a large fixed base compressor like Campbell - Hausfeld or Ingersoll-Rand. These will have around 6 horsepower and a storage tank of 50 gallons or more.
If you are a hobbyist woodworker, who is looking for a nailer or stapler, one of the small portable compressors is probably ideal. Manufacturers like Porter-Cable or Delta will work fine.
The real trick to buying a compressor is to know ahead of time what you are going to use it for and what the air-tool rating is in PSI and CFM. This will give you a better indication the duty cycle you will need. But this isn't end all either, because your need to look CLOSELY at the air tools you are considering because the same tool an vary widely in the amount of compressed air it will consume. For example a series of six inch random-orbital sanders have cfm differences of of 8 to 24. That's huge, and it means the difference between buying a mid-size compressor or large fixed compressor. It pays to examine the tools you will be using and select the appropriate ones.
A compressor and associated air powered tools can be a real time saver, even for the hobbyist's work shop. In many cases a simple brad nailer is almost like having a second set of hands around in assembling and gluing projects together. The other consideration in selecting a compressor is, what other uses will you find for it? For example if you do select one of the portable units, it is conceivable that you can carry this around to odd jobs, in the house, for friends or other areas. This is less of an option of the mid-size and out of the question for the large units ... but then the portables will not likely be suitable for sander/buffers ... SO ... in the end you will have to make that tough decision, but what ever you do, make sure you make sure get a nice selection of tools designed for your compressor. It will make your woodworking more fun, quicker and even more enjoyable than it is now.
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Campbell Hausfeld FP2028 1-Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Air Compressor with Accessory Kit Feature
- User-friendly design
- Easy-to-read gauge
- 100 max PSI
- Tank eliminates the pulsations caused by piston action
- Accessory kit contains 25-foot recoil hose, female coupler, male plug, air chuck, inflation needle, 2-inch inflation nozzles
Campbell Hausfeld FP2028 1-Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Air Compressor with Accessory Kit Overview
High power for inflation, brad nailers, staplers, and air brush equipment; 1-gallon tank for smoother air flow; cooler-running motor; automatic shutoff; sturdy handle for easier storage and handling; easy-to-read pressure gauge; comes with 25-foot coiled hose, inflation needle and adapter, two inflation nozzles and air chuck.Campbell Hausfeld FP2028 1-Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Air Compressor with Accessory Kit Specifications
Great for inflation, brad nailing, stapling, and air brushing, the Campbell Hausfeld FP2028 One-Gallon Air Compressor quickly inflates and fastens to save you time and money. With its tank that eliminates the pulsations caused by piston action, this compressor will give you smooth, consistent performance.
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Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer working around the house or in your garage, you'll complete home repair and tire inflation jobs faster and less expensively with the FP2028 One-Gallon Air Compressor.
With this air compressor, you will be able to reap the benefits of inflation tools and air-powered fastening tools. Compared to electrically powered tools, air tools have significantly lower initial costs and notably longer lifespans. They also deliver more torque and higher RPM than their electric counterparts, which means they'll help you get your work done more efficiently.
Perfect for a Wide Range of Applications
Delivering 100 maximum PSI, the FP2028 is ideal for over 25 inflation and fastening projects, including inflating car and bike tires, inflating sports balls, cleaning upholstery, air brushing, and cleaning your workbench area.
Arriving with a five-piece accessory kit and hose, the FP2028 has everything you need to get started on your next job.
Designed with You in Mind
Designed to be user-friendly, the FP2028 One-Gallon Air Compressor is a compact tool that's easy to store and move--its durable handle ensures portability to and from the jobsite.
For further convenience, an easy-to-read gauge is conveniently located on the compressor body for quick, accurate air pressure monitoring. Additionally, the tank eliminates pulsations caused by piston action, so you'll get reliable performance job after job.
Dimensions and Warranty Information
The FP2028 measures 11.8 x 12.7 x 11.8 inches (WxHxD), weighs 12.7 pounds, and is backed by a one-year warranty.
About Campbell Hausfeld: Making it Easier to Do it Like a Pro!
Campbell Hausfeld makes it easier for you to finish your projects like a pro. The company's history of creating quality products began in 1836, when it manufactured horse-drawn wagons and agricultural equipment. Today, the company offers a complete line of air compressors, air tools and accessories, inflators, nailers and staplers, paint sprayers, pressure washers, and more. Finish your projects faster and easier with Campbell Hausfeld.
What's in the Box
FP2028; 25-foot recoil hose; air chuck; inflation needle; inflation needle adapter; and two inflation nozzles.
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