Air Tools & Compressors
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About Air Tools & Compressors
Air tools and compressors provide professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts with powerful, reliable pneumatic solutions for demanding applications. Compressed air systems deliver exceptional power-to-weight ratios and consistent performance across automotive workshops, construction sites, and home workshops throughout the UK. From impact wrenches and nail guns to spray equipment and grinders, MyToolShed.co.uk offers a comprehensive range of air-powered tools alongside compressors to suit every requirement.
At the heart of any pneumatic system is the air compressor, converting 240v electrical power into stored compressed air that drives multiple specialised tools through standard air hoses. Whether you need a compact portable unit for site work or a large stationary compressor for busy workshop environments, understanding CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) ratings and PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) specifications ensures optimal tool performance and productivity.
Applications
Air tools and compressors serve diverse trades and industries across the UK:
- Automotive Technicians – Impact wrenches, ratchets, spray guns, tyre inflators, and die grinders for vehicle maintenance and repair
- Construction Professionals – Nail guns, staple guns, and framing nailers for site work and installations
- Carpenters and Joiners – Brad nailers, finish nailers, and pin guns for precise fastening applications
- Painters and Decorators – HVLP spray guns delivering professional finishes on various surfaces
- Fabricators and Metalworkers – Die grinders, cut-off tools, and pneumatic sanders for precision metalwork
- Roofing Contractors – Coil nailers for efficient felt and shingle installation
- DIY Enthusiasts – Tyre inflation, nail guns for fencing and decking, spray painting, and general workshop tasks
Choosing The Right Air Tools & Compressors
Selecting appropriate pneumatic equipment requires careful consideration of several key factors:
Match CFM Requirements: Identify your most air-hungry tool and ensure your compressor meets or exceeds its CFM rating. Professional workshops running multiple tools simultaneously should add CFM requirements together with a 30% safety margin. Impact wrenches typically need 4-5 CFM, spray guns require 8-12 CFM, whilst nail guns consume 2-3 CFM.
Tank Capacity and Portability: Site workers benefit from compact 6-50 litre portable compressors with wheels and carry handles. Stationary workshop compressors (100-270 litres) provide sustained performance for demanding professional applications but require dedicated space.
Power Supply: Most UK domestic settings provide single-phase 240v power through standard 13A sockets. Larger workshop compressors drawing more than 13A require dedicated circuits or three-phase industrial power.
Oil-Free vs Oil-Lubricated: Oil-free models require minimal maintenance and produce clean air suitable for spray painting. Oil-lubricated compressors offer longer lifespans, quieter operation, and better performance for continuous professional use.
MyToolShed.co.uk stocks leading manufacturers including DeWalt, Makita, and Stanley, offering reliable solutions backed by excellent warranty support and readily available spare parts throughout the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size air compressor do I need for home use?
For typical DIY applications like inflating tyres, powering nail guns for decking, and occasional spray painting, a 24-50 litre compressor delivering 6-8 CFM at 90 PSI suits most needs. For regular use of air-hungry tools like spray guns or impact wrenches, consider a 50-100 litre model with higher CFM ratings.
Can I run multiple air tools simultaneously from one compressor?
Yes, but your compressor must deliver sufficient CFM to meet combined tool requirements. Add the CFM ratings of tools you'll run concurrently and add 30% as a safety margin. Most portable compressors suit single-tool operation, whilst professional workshops require large stationary units supporting multiple operators.
How often should I service my air compressor?
Oil-lubricated compressors require oil changes every 50-100 hours of use or annually for light-duty applications. Drain moisture from the tank daily to prevent corrosion, and replace air filters every 100-300 hours according to manufacturer recommendations. Belt-driven models need belt tension checks every 50 hours.