Shop compressor

jilt · #1 05-03-2012, 10:23 PM

I have managed to burn out another compressor and now it's time to buy an industrial unit. I am limited to single phase because I live in a rural area. My last unit was a 5 hp MaxAir (Eagle I think) 18.5 cfm@150 psi hobby reciprocating compressor. I really want to go with a screw compressor next because they are so quiet. But for my application, most compressor distributors reccomend another reciprocating machine. They tell me that the screw units run better when they run for longer periods of time (20 mins +) and are not stop and go like I would most likely be running.

I am leaning towards a 7.5 hp Ingersol Rand reciprocating two stage 24 cfm@175psi compressor. Seems to be the best value for the price.

What brand do you guys here have for your shop compressor? I have had quotes for Quincy, DVair, Chicago Pneummatic, Ingersol Rand, Kaeser, Champion, Polarair, FS Curtis & a few others. Are there any brands you would stay away from?

roofermarc · #2 05-04-2012, 07:31 AM

I would think a 7.5 h/p would be too much for single phase. I can't ever remember seeing a single phase motor over 5 h/p available. (Obviously there is since your looking at purchasing one) You can run a 3 phase unit on a vfd, which is less money than a phase converter. You might want to look at acquiring a phase converter large enough to run several machines though, and you could possibly build your own. You need a 1725 rpm three phase motor with enough h/p to start the machine in question, that is the most expensive item of your phase converter package I would think. And if you can do sheetmetal work you can do anything.

tnbndr · #3 05-05-2012, 10:15 AM

I have an Air America by DeVilbiss, it is 6.5 HP 20.2 SCFM, 16.9@100PSI and 16.0@ 175PSI. It has never failed to produce what I need. It has an 80 gal tank and noisy as they all are. I don't use a lot of air tools so maybe I am not the test, but I have been pleased with this unit. Part of my decision was based on being made in the USA.

device · #4 05-06-2012, 02:49 AM

10 hp devair (devilbliss?) huge monster..

tnbndr · #5 05-06-2012, 05:58 PM

Forgot to mention that mine is 220v single phase.