A full-size HVLP spray gun uses about 9 CFM without a break, so with the usual 30 percent margin the compressor has to deliver about 11.7 SCFM at 90 PSI: in practice a 14 SCFM machine, which usually means a 60 or 80 gallon, 240 volt compressor. Sanding the car with a dual action sander needs more, about 14.3 SCFM.
A small blast cabinet or pot blaster uses about 12 CFM at 90 PSI without a break, so the compressor needs to deliver about 15.6 SCFM with a margin: a 17.5 SCFM class machine, usually a two-stage 80 gallon or larger. Bigger nozzles use a lot more.
A 1/2 in impact wrench draws about 4.5 CFM at 90 PSI while the trigger is held, but only in short bursts. A 20 to 30 gallon compressor delivering about 5.1 SCFM or more keeps up with lug nuts and suspension work; a 6 gallon pancake runs it for only about 52 seconds of continuous hammering before the pressure drops.
Frequently asked questions
What size air compressor do I need to paint a car?
A full-size HVLP spray gun uses about 9 CFM without a break, so with the usual 30 percent margin the compressor has to deliver about 11.7 SCFM at 90 PSI: in practice a 14 SCFM machine, which usually means a 60 or 80 gallon, 240 volt compressor. Sanding the car with a dual action sander needs more, about 14.3 SCFM.
What size air compressor do I need for sandblasting?
A small blast cabinet or pot blaster uses about 12 CFM at 90 PSI without a break, so the compressor needs to deliver about 15.6 SCFM with a margin: a 17.5 SCFM class machine, usually a two-stage 80 gallon or larger. Bigger nozzles use a lot more.
What size air compressor do I need for an impact wrench?
A 1/2 in impact wrench draws about 4.5 CFM at 90 PSI while the trigger is held, but only in short bursts. A 20 to 30 gallon compressor delivering about 5.1 SCFM or more keeps up with lug nuts and suspension work; a 6 gallon pancake runs it for only about 52 seconds of continuous hammering before the pressure drops.
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