Many people are in the hunt for a reliable and well-suited air compressor for air drills, because of the power, convenience and versatility that an air drill offers. If you’ve ever navigated the aisles of your local hardware store, then you know there are many different types and sizes of air compressors.
But how do you determine what size air compressor for air drills is right for your needs? In this article, we’ll cover everything from cfm, psi and tank size considerations to choosing the right motor and when it pays off in terms of efficiency and productivity. Keep reading for our complete guide on choosing best air compressor for air drills!
What Size Air Compressor For Air Drills
For air drills, you’ll need an air compressor with a CFM rating of at least 4-8 and a PSI rating around 90-120. HP should be in the 2-5 range, and the tank size should be around 20 gallons or higher.
What Is An Air Drill?
An air drill is a power tool that uses compressed air to generate torque and rotary motion. The tool consists of a motor, compressor, hammer mechanism and rotating bit. The air compressor supplies the pressurized air, which is channeled by the motor through valves in the hammer mechanism at regular intervals to create rotations. By varying the speed and pressure of the air, a user can vary the speed and torque of the drill bit.
Types of Air Drills:
Air drills come in three main types:
1- Straight Air Drills
2- Angled Air Drills
3- Hammer Air Drills
1- Straight Air Drills:
For straight air drills, the requirements may vary slightly depending on what you need to use it for. Generally speaking, straight air drills require 1-2 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) of compressed air at a pressure of between 90-120 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch). The motor should be between 1/2 and 1 HP (Horsepower) with a tank size of 5-10 gallons.
2- Angled Air Drills:
Angled air drills require more power than straight air drills and may require up to 3 CFM of compressed air at a pressure of between 90-120 PSI. The motor should be between 2-3 HP with a tank size of 10-20 gallons.
3- Hammer Air Drills:
Hammer air drills require the most power of all and may require up to 4 CFM of compressed air at a pressure of between 90-120 PSI. The motor should be between 3-5 HP with a tank size of 20-50 gallons.
When To Choose A Higher Horsepower Motor:
Higher horsepower motors are more efficient and will be able to handle larger air drills with ease, but they may also cost more. When using an air drill for heavier duty tasks, such as drilling through metal or concrete, it is recommended to use a motor of at least 3 HP.
7 Important Factors to Consider When Selecting an Air Compressor for Air Drills:
When selecting an air compressor for air drills, there are a few important factors to consider, such as:
1. PSI Rate:
The recommended range for air drills is 90-120 PSI.
2. Horsepower:
The recommended range for air drills is 1/2 to 5 HP depending on the type of drill and the required power.
3. Tank Size:
The tank size should be large enough to provide the necessary pressure and volume of compressed air needed to operate your drill. Generally, tank sizes range between 5 and 50 gallons.
4. CFM Air Output:
Air drills require a certain amount of CFM in order to operate efficiently. The required CFM varies depending on the type of drill and the task it’s being used for.
5. Flow Meter:
A flow meter measures the rate at which air is flowing out of the compressor. This is important for ensuring the correct level of pressure and volume are maintained.
6. Duty Cycle:
The duty cycle of an air compressor refers to how often and for how long it should be able to run before needing a break (to avoid overheating).
7. Portability:
Portable air compressors are ideal if you need to move your air drills around easily. Look for models with wheels or handles that make them easy to transport.
Selecting the best size air compressor for air drills can make all the difference between a successful project and one that turns into a disaster. Following these tips will help ensure that you select the right size air compressor to get the job done quickly and efficiently!
Can I Use Small Air Compressor For Using Air Drills?
In general, small air compressors are not suitable for powering air tools. Air drills require a certain level of power and pressure to operate efficiently and safely, which can be difficult for smaller compressors to provide. For this reason, it is best to opt for a larger compressor with adequate horsepower and CFM ratings when using an air drill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question #1
What size air compressor do I need for an air drill?
The size and power of the air compressor you need depends on the type of air drill you are using. Generally, straight air drills require 1-2 CFM at a pressure of 90-120 PSI with a motor between 1/2 and 1 HP and a tank size of 5-10 gallons. Angled air drills require up to 3 CFM at the same pressure with a motor between 2-3 HP and a tank size of 10-20 gallons, while hammer air drills require up to 4 CFM at the same pressure with a motor between 3-5 HP and a tank size of 20-50 gallons.
Question #2
Is it possible to use a small air compressor for an air drill?
Small air compressors are generally not suitable for powering air drills due to the level of power and pressure they need in order to operate efficiently and safely. It is best to opt for a larger compressor with adequate horsepower and CFM ratings when using an air drill.
Question #3
What is the duty cycle of an air compressor?
The duty cycle of an air compressor refers to how often and for how long it should be able to run before needing a break (to avoid overheating).
Question #4
What is a flow meter and why is it important?
A flow meter measures the rate at which air is flowing out of the compressor. This is important for ensuring the correct level of pressure and volume are maintained.
Question #5
How do I know if my air compressor has enough power for my drill?
You can determine if your air compressor has enough power by checking its horsepower and CFM ratings against the requirements of your air drill. Make sure to also check the pressure and tank size requirements as well.
Question #6
What are the benefits of using a portable air compressor for an air drill?
Portable air compressors are ideal if you need to move your air drills around easily. Look for models with wheels or handles that make them easy to transport. This can save time and effort when moving between job sites.
Question #7
How often should I maintain my air compressor?
It is important to regularly inspect and maintain your air compressor in order to ensure it runs efficiently and safely. Check your owner’s manual for specific maintenance guidelines, but generally it is recommended to check wear parts (filters, hoses, etc.) every few months and perform a full service at least once a year.
Question #8
What type of oil should I use for my air compressor?
The type of oil you should use for your air compressor depends on the make and model, so it is best to consult your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific recommendations. Generally, synthetic oil is preferred as it offers better lubrication and has less friction than conventional oils.
Question #9
Is it safe to use an extension cord with an air compressor?
It is generally not recommended to use an extension cord with an air compressor as this can be detrimental to both safety and performance. Extension cords may also reduce the flow rate of the compressor and reduce its efficiency.
Question #10
What type of air hose should I use for my air drill?
The type of air hose you should use for your air drill depends on what type of job you are doing, as different hoses offer different levels of resistance to abrasion, weathering and oil. Generally, it is best to opt for a reinforced rubber or PVC hose that can withstand high pressure and temperatures. It is also important to select a hose with the correct diameter in order to get optimal performance from your drill. You should also make sure that all connections are tight in order to avoid any leaks or other issues.
Conclusion:
The right size air compressor for air drills can make all the difference in terms of performance and safety. Make sure to do your research before buying, ensuring that you select one with sufficient horsepower, CFM rating and tank size to provide ample power for your drill. Ensure all components are correctly maintained through regular inspections and services, using the recommended oil and air hoses for optimal results. With the right air compressor, you can enjoy your air drill for years to come.