Mini Air Compressors

[ericatdallas]

Wasn't sure where to put this topic but it's fair enough to put here.

I was looking on the internet and found a mini air compressor. They plug into the cigarette lighter or any 12V DC supply.

They have about 250psi output and they pretty much look like they're for tires or inflateable mattresses. My question is, can they be used to power air tools like impact wrenches? Do they have the right connections? Anyone else know why it makes a difference of how big the tank is for the larger compressors?

Anyone know?

[Optimus]

if this mini-compressor is what i think it is:

the mini-compressors are essentially airpumps and just constantly run spurting air (i have one of these). They are capable of filling things like tires to a certain pressure... very slowly under even 45 psi even with a 200+psi rating. They cannot run tools because as you use the tool, all pressure would be lost immediately because there is no storage of air.

the large tank style compressors are for the tools. The larger the tank, the more capacity for air and sometimes the capability of higher psi. the compressor turns on and off to keep the tank full of compressed air. The tank allows a constant outflow pressure for tools, etc. Unless you are using a ton of air, the smaller ones work just fine (which are still like 2'x2'x1').

[Yanks0114]

Simply put, no these "mini compressors will not power air tools. If you'd like to power an impact wrench or such tools first off you will need an air tank and a powerful compressor. Most good compressors are over 1 hp and you should get around a 5 gallon tank.

[4banger]

If you are getting an air compressor for air tools, it's not a bad Idea to add a resivoir for air tool oil. The one where I work has one built into the water seperator/pressure regulator. Your air tools will thank you.