How to Use An Air Compressor?

An air compressor can assist in doing work easily with pneumatic tools. The major advantage of using an air compressor is that it reduces the requirement of an individual motor to power up each tool. Thus, it makes easy to use a tool and to carry them around as well. It can power up different air-powered tools used for many functions. Now If you are one of them who does not know “how to use an air compressor”. Then in this article, every information about using air compressors will be discussed. So please keep reading for more details.

What are the working guides to use an air compressor?

At first, working with an air compressor may seem daunting for its numerous dials and buttons. However, after using it for a while it will become very easy and simple to operate. For this reason, some guidelines are given below:

Gather your required stuff before working

Before you start, gather your required stuff. So, that you won’t be disturbed in between your work. Thus, make sure you have these required supplies:

• Safety goggles: It is most essential to protect your eyes wearing safety goggles so that no debris or pieces can hit your face while working.

• Wear closed-toed shoes: Putting on a good pair of closed toed-shoe or boots shields your toes form any dropped tools.

• Check power tools: If you have an electric air compressor then place your device near an electrical outlet. Once you plug your device, tuned it on and connect it to other tools.
• Check oil level: Some smaller air compressor doesn’t require oil while some bigger air compressor does. So, to check the oil there is a dipstick near the bottom of one of the compressor’s end. Pull it to examine the oil level. If you notice the oil doesn’t reach 2/3 of the way up the stick then pour some compressor oil into the tank.

• Have compressor manual: To understand your specific air compressor better, keep the manual by your side while working.

Steps to start using air compressor:

When you are done with gathering supplies, make sure you clear the workspace for safe and risk-free working. Once you have ensured it, you can start working with your device.

The following are some basic steps to get started with using your air compressor.

Step 1: Have an overall inspection of your machine:

Before getting started, take a moment to check your compressor to make sure everything is in order. Check whether the hose is tightly secured or not. If is it not, it will induce low air pressure which can damage the hose and the machine.

Also, examine the power switch button. Keep it off when it’s not required. Because keeping it on while plugging the machine can be dangerous.

Make sure the machine sits on a flat surface otherwise it will tilt or fall over.

Step 2: First prepare and then power on the compressor:

How do air compressors work? Air compressors are often available in three types: oil, electric and gas. So, the preparation methods may vary for different types of air compressors.

If your machine is oil-dependent, then check the oil level. Add some oil if required. Otherwise, due to the shortage of oil, your machine won’t work properly.

Oil helps in keeping your compressor tightly sealed and prevent it from getting hot.

If you have an electric air compressor, then turn on the machine with its power button after plugging it into an electrical outlet.

Also, an air compressor can run on gas. For this reason, keep some gasoline on hand.

Once you are done prepping the machine accurately, you can turn “on” the power button.

Step 3: Adjust the desired pressure range and Fill the air tank:

After powering on the machine, turn the pressure meter to your desired pressure to fill the tank with air.

Two meters are there in a small compressor. One meter indicates the air pressure in the tank and the other one indicates the pressure of the tools attached to the hose. These two meters are known as Proper Air pressure (PSI) and Air Flow (CFM).

Using inappropriate pressure can damage both the tool and the air compressor. As every pneumatic tool has a different requirement. So, make sure you know the exact pressure required for a tool.

Step 4: Regulate  Air Control Valve:

Accustom the air control valve to meet the maximum air pressure on the pneumatic tool. Turn the air control valve in either direction as long as the pressure meter can read the right pressure for the tool.

Step 5: Connect the hose to the compressor:

Connect the hose to the air compressor. The hose should be long enough to cover up the working space. Use two layers of Teflon tape to wrap the cord end of the hose. After that, wire the hose onto the compressor fitting, located near the air pressure meter. Then fasten it with an adjustable screw in a clockwise direction. Avoid using an extension cord to the compressor because it can damage the machine due to over-heating.

Step 6: Attach the pneumatic Tool:

Attach the aerial tool with the other end of the hose. You can do it by using a quick-connect fitting. Stretch back on the spring-loaded collar on the hose, and propel it towards the air intake on the tool. Free the collar to ensure the connection is secure.

When disconnecting the tool, stretch back on the collar while stretching the tool off the air hose.

Step 7: Shut down the machine and the pressure meter:

After you are done using the air compressor, shut down the machine and the pressure meter. Then unplug it from the outlet.

After that open the drain valve on the underside of the tank to remove any moisture. One must drain the tank after every use as water can rust the metal.

Step 8: Put away the air compressor in a secure place:

Make sure you are putting the air compressor in a dry place. As condensation can form beneath your machine if air can’t pass under it. So, to prevent such a situation, place the air compressor in a dry place where regular airflow is available.

Otherwise, your machine can be damaged.

Conclusion

At first, the air compressor will be difficult to use. But if you start using it regularly then it will become easy for you to operate. Thus within a few days, you will be using it like a pro. So, now that you learn “how to use an air compressor?” then I hope you will enjoy using it by following this article.