Air Blow Guns

About Air Blow Guns

Air blow guns are essential compressed air tools that deliver concentrated streams of air for cleaning, drying, and debris removal across workshop applications. Connected to an air compressor via quick-release coupling, these versatile tools efficiently clear sawdust from machinery, blast metal filings from workpieces, dry painted surfaces, and remove debris from engine components. From automotive workshops to joinery shops, air blow guns maintain clean, efficient working environments throughout the UK.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of air blow gun designs including standard pistol-grip models with trigger controls for general-purpose tasks, stubby versions for enhanced manoeuvrability in confined spaces, needle nose variants for directing air into tight recesses and threaded holes, right-angled designs for awkward areas, and long reach models for deep cavities. Professional-grade options from trusted brands including Sealey, Draper, Bahco, and Facom feature robust metal construction designed to withstand demanding daily use at standard workshop pressures between 90-120 PSI.

Applications

Air blow guns are utilised daily by trades and industries throughout the UK including:

• Motor mechanics and automotive technicians – cleaning engine bays, brake assemblies, undercarriage components, and workshop equipment
• Woodworkers and chippies – removing sawdust and shavings from machinery, timber joints, and finished pieces before finishing
• Metal fabricators and welders – clearing metal filings, grinding dust, swarf from lathes, and cooling components between operations
• Spray painters and decorators – drying surfaces, removing dust contamination, and cleaning spray equipment
• Plant and machinery maintenance engineers – servicing industrial equipment and clearing debris from moving parts
• Manufacturing and production facilities – keeping workstations clean and machinery operating efficiently
• HVAC and refrigeration engineers – clearing dust from condensers, evaporators, and electrical control panels
• DIY enthusiasts with home workshops – general cleaning and maintenance of tools, projects, and workspace

Choosing The Right Air Blow Guns

Nozzle Type and Configuration: Standard straight nozzles suit general-purpose workshop cleaning, whilst needle nose designs excel at directing concentrated air into tight spaces and threaded holes with pinpoint accuracy. Right-angled models prove invaluable when working around obstructions, and long reach versions extend capability into deep cavities.

Trigger Control and Ergonomics: Variable trigger control allows precise air flow adjustment from gentle puffs for sensitive components to maximum blast for stubborn debris. Ergonomic pistol grips reduce hand fatigue during extended sessions, whilst palm-style guns offer convenient one-handed operation.

Air Consumption Requirements: Match your blow gun's CFM requirements to your compressor's sustained output capacity. Using a high-flow gun with an undersized compressor results in disappointing performance and excessive duty cycles.

Safety Features: Look for blow guns incorporating safety nozzles that comply with HSE recommendations by limiting dead-end pressure when blocked. Side outlet designs reduce noise exposure and prevent debris blowback towards operators.

Build Quality: Professional-grade tools from MyToolShed.co.uk feature metal bodies with hardened internal components that withstand daily workshop abuse far better than budget plastic alternatives, providing extended service life and consistent performance.

Safety Information

Never direct compressed air at yourself, colleagues, or others – even relatively low-pressure air can cause serious harm if it enters the bloodstream through breaks in skin. The HSE strongly recommends using safety nozzles that limit dead-end pressure to below 30 PSI when blocked against surfaces.

Always wear appropriate eye protection when using air blow guns, as dislodged debris and metal particles can travel at high velocity with sufficient force to cause injury. Ensure adequate ventilation when blowing dust, particularly hazardous particles including metal grinding dust or wood dust containing preservatives. Never use compressed air to clean clothing whilst wearing it, and avoid directing air at the body to remove dust from skin or hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What PSI pressure should I use for my air blow gun?

Most air blow guns operate effectively between 90-120 PSI, though many cleaning applications require considerably less. Use the minimum pressure necessary for the task – this conserves compressed air, reduces noise levels, extends compressor life, and improves safety. For delicate electronics or painted surfaces, 30-60 PSI is typically sufficient for effective cleaning without risk of damage.

Why does my air blow gun freeze up during extended use?

Compressed air cools rapidly as it expands through the nozzle, and moisture present in the air line can freeze at the nozzle outlet during prolonged continuous use. Install an air line filter with moisture separator upstream from your blow gun, drain your compressor receiver tank regularly, and allow brief breaks during extended operation to prevent ice formation.

How do I properly maintain my air blow gun?

Apply several drops of specialist air tool oil into the air inlet connection regularly (weekly with daily use), then briefly run the tool to distribute lubricant throughout internal components. Check and clean the nozzle periodically to remove debris buildup, and store in a dry environment when not in use to prevent internal corrosion.