What compressor to buy?

Question

I want to buy a small air compressor initally for car spraying but eventually for a range of air tools. There are quite a few about but I don't know basics like what air flow rate I need to handle paint spraying. It's quite a while since I did any and can't remember much about the equipment I used. The spraying will be mostly car parts and body.

Anyone suggest a minimum spec please? Anyone got any recommendations for a make that they have used? I don't have a budget in mind. Obviously I don't want to spend more than I need but don't want kit that is going to be marginal.

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Peter Scott

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Dave Plowman (News) · Accepted Answer

If your main use is to be spraying, consider a HVLP set from Apollo. Excellent results with cellulose etc for around 200 quid. To get the same results at high pressure will cost many, many times more. And simply use electric tools. Although air tools seem initially attractive cost wise, the compressor needed for most, and the installation of the pipework etc, will not be cheap - and the size and noise a probable disadvantage - unless for fairly continuous use, ie trade.

Grunff · Answer

I'd just like to second that. If all you're doing is spraying, HVLP is a much better option. If you want to spray and use air tools, you'll need

8CFM FAD (not displacement) minimum, with a 100l receiver minimum.

Peter Scott · Answer

Thanks for the info. I guess I am not seriosly thinking about air tools- just covering all possibilities. I used a HVLP sprayer some years back and remember it producing good results from me as a newbie. Thanks for the idea. I'll follow up Apollo.

Peter Scott

Dave Plowman (News) · Answer

My 'note' would be to ignore the 'instructions' provided by Apollo. For using cellulose - the only practical home car spraying material. Primer/surfacer is ok, you can lay it on with a trowel, provided you rub it down afterwards - but for top coat make it *very* thin and use twice - or more - as many coats as normal.

What compressor to buy?

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