Auto Technical Reference Library
Auto Refinishing: Aftermarket Refinish System Equipment
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An air compressor is the "heart" of the paint and body shop. It is designed to provide clean, dry air at a predetermined pressure to ensure efficient operation of all pneumatic equipment in the body and paint shop. The air compressor is designed to deliver air at pressures up to 200 pounds per square inch (psi) and contain filters to remove particles and oil.
An electric motor, air pump and large air storage tank are the major parts of an air compressor. The type and amount of equipment that will be running off a compressor will determine its size. In most shops, compressors can range anywhere from 3 to 40 horsepower (hp.) motors and 80 to 300 gallon air tanks.
Most air systems today will be equipped with an air drying system to remove any moisture contained within the compressed air system. These systems will either require daily draining or have automatic draining features.
A two-stage, dual pump air compressor (left) with refrigerated air dryer (right)
