FAQs
Here are a selection of some of the technical questions we receive on a regular basis.
Use the product range categories below to find the relevant answer:
Pneumatics
What is the difference between micro-fog and oil-fog lubrication?
Oil-Fog has droplet size of greater than 2µ (2 microns). Micro-Fog has droplet size of less than 2µ, has finer control and the oil will travel greater distances.
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What do NC and NO mean?
For 3/2 valves, NC means "Normally Closed" and NO means "Normally Open".
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What is the difference between a parallel and a taper thread?
Parallel threaded fittings seal on a washer between the fitting and the face of the component's port. The surround to the port is usually spot face machined. Taper threaded fittings rely on a lightly wedged fit and use sealant between the threads of the fitting and port.
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Compressors
Why are some compressors rated in Free Air Delivered and some in Displacement?
In simple terms displacement is the theoretical output figure without taking into account heat expansion, friction losses and general inefficiencies. Free air delivered is the actual amount of air available for use at the output of the compressor. For a fuller explanation see - http://www.britishcompressedairsociety.co.uk/downloads/terminology.doc
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How does pressure affect my compressed air system?
This is the way force, ie power, in the compressed air system is expressed and is measured in either pounds per square inch (psi) or bar. Pressure is important because to have too low a pressure would cause the equipment not to work correctly, too high a pressure would at best rapidly wear out the equipment, at worst it could make the equipment lethal. See the technical information chart below for the correct pressure for individual piece of equipment.
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What is a single stage compressor?
One or more cylinders producing the final pressure in one compression. Normal maximum pressure 150 psi. g.
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What is a two stage compressor?
First stage, air is compressed to approximately 30 psi. g, cooled then compressed to final pressure in the second stage. Normal maximum pressure 200 psi. g. Note: Two stage provides more air for less energy.
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What is the difference between the single and three phase power supply?
Single Phase Standard supply for domestic and light industry 220/240 volts. - 5 Amp light circuit - Not suitable for equipment
- 13 Amp ring main - Max 2.5 hp std compressor. Max 3.0 hp for LC compressors
- 45 Amp cooker/shower - Max 3.5 hp compressor
Three Phase Main electrical supply to industry. - 380/440 Volts - Any size of compressor
Main Benefits of a Three Phase Compressor - Approx 2/3 cost saving over single phase
- Stable supply
- Longer motor life
Main Benefit of a Single Phase Compressor - Excellent second-hand resale value
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How much air does my airtool use?
Click here to see the Air Equipment Consumption Guide.
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How do I choose the right compressor?
Three-phase compressors are more efficient producers of compressed air than single-phase equivalent units, so where a three-phase supply is available the best option is the three-phase compressor. Single-phase compressors up to 2.5 hp can operate from a 240V 13 Amp power supply, with the exception of the new 3 hp Low Current models. 3.0 hp and above must operate from a 240V 30 Amp supply. Wherever possible choose a larger compressor than you require at present to allow for expansion. Compressors with cast iron cylinders running slow, offer a much extended service life. 1. Bodyshop - using the air equipment consumption guide, add all the equipment consumptions together and divide by two, the resulting figure is the minimum free air you require. 2. Workshop - using the air equipment consumption guide, add all the equipment consumptions together and divide by three, the resulting figure is the minimum free air you require. Note: For calculation purposes always use free air delivered figures. Compressor Size Guide A) Ask questions 1. What is the air to be used for? 2. What is the maximum pressure required? (see consumption guide) 3. What electricity supply is available? (single/three phase) 4. What size compressor is currently in use? (see quick calculation guide below) 5. How well does existing compressor cope? 6. What are the future plans for additional staff and equipment? B) Complete following list 1. Number of tools and type 2. Number of users 3. Air consumption of largest tool/equipment using air C) Complete survey form D) Select compressor from catalogue (use only free air figures) Note: Quick guide to CFM/FAD output (approx) of existing compressor - Multiply motor hp by 3.3 = output in CFM/FAD Multiply motor kW by 4.5 = output in CFM/FAD Multiply motor kW by 2.1 = output in L/sec/FAD
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What is the cost of air leaks?
Hissing Sid is at work in most companies you visit. Hissing Sid is a length of air hose which has become the family 'air' loom, it must be, because this hose is costing its owner a small fortune and yet to suggest a replacement would be a cardinal sin. So what does Hissing Sid cost to run? Air leak size: 0.75mm dia = CFM lost: 1.6 = Energy: 300W Air leak size: 1.50mm dia = CFM lost: 6.5 - Energy: 1100W Cost A typical garage working a 7 day week (service station) multiplied by 365 days - = 1,365,000 cubic feet per year!!! or = 6,205kW per year!!! or = £550.00 per year!!! Message: Clearly a replacement hose and couplings makes economin sense.
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How do I select the correct bore of hose?
An air tool needs the following: A) Correct size of compressor to ensure sufficient air available. B) Correct size of air hose to ensure sufficient air available. C) Correct pressure at tool (see chart). D) Correct type of lubricant (NOT engine oil). E) CLEAN DRY AIR!!! (use filters, regulator, dryer and lubricant). Recommended Air Hose Sizes Hose: 1/4" Uses: Tyre inflators, Airbrush Max flow CFM: 5 Hose: 5/16" Uses: Std spray guns, 3/8"mm drill, ratchet wrench Max flow CFM: 15 Hose: 3/8" Uses: HVLP/LVLP spray guns, 1/2" & 3/4" wrenches, sanders Max flow CFM: 25 Hose: 1/2" Uses: 1" impact wrenches Max flow CFM: 50 Note: Always keep hose lengths as short as practical. eg. 1/2" impact wrench with 20 metres of 1/4" bore hose will develop less than 40% of its available power!!
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Where did the pressure go?
Pressure drop A 10 metre length of air hose flowing 15 cfm at 100 psi. g will lose the following pressure: 1/4" bore loses 30 psi. g 5/16" bore loses 12 psi. g 1/2" bore loses 1 psi. g
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What does PSSR stand for and is it important?
The Pressure System Safety Regulations 2000.
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Workshop
How do I select the correct Airbrush for my application?
Click here to see our Airbrush Selector Guide.
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What does HVLP spraying mean?
In an HVLP system atomisation of the paint takes place at a much lower pressure than conventional methods. Forming the very fine mist that results creates a minimal amount of over spray. Transfer efficiency can be very high with HVLP, up to 90% hence the popularity of HVLP systems in commercial spray-shops and manufacturing plants. Savings of £1,000’s can be made in just a very small business! HVLP Spray guns do require a slightly different technique, which in the main means working more slowly as the paint mist is much lighter than conventional paint spraying.
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