Expert: Ellen Choate - 3/29/2011

Question
Ellen,

I was wondering how much airbrushing can be done with a filled ten gallon air tank? Can I attach a regulator and dehumidifier to one, just like a compressor? Last, does it matter how I fill that tank?

I know that the bottom end diaphragm air compressors pulse air - so using them seems both expensive and iffy. The compressors at Home Depot are beastly loud. I am trying to avoid the $300 price of a studio compressor, if possible, but still get a decent air supply for an airbrush. I am laying down coats of dye and finish on leather bracelets - it's my hobby, not a business.

Thanks for the help!

Answer
Hi, Jim.  I'll answer to the best of my ability on this one.  I haven't airbrushed with a tank in years, so I don't really know how long it'll last you on a fill, if that's what you're asking.  I do know it's an accepted and workable source of air.  You certainly can attach your regulators and water traps.  I think it's just a matter of trial and error, or 'research and development' as I like to call it.  I used to fill mine at the gas station, but that was before they charged a dollar for underpressured air.  You could use your loud compressor to fill it!  Just be sure (use your gauges) not to overfill.  

I also know what you mean by the compressors at Home Depot being so freakin loud!  That became one of my main criteria for a compressor.  I have a Ranger that's not too bad; unfortunately, they don't make a small compressor anymore.  The tankless diaphragm ones do pulse and that effects your spray.  If the air pulses, so does the paint.  I don't like them.  

If you could find an old, say 80's,  Sears half horsepower at a garage sale or something, that's be great. It was really quiet and just a good compressor.   I used one until I wore it out and by that time, they weren't making that one anymore, of course.  Companies hate their customers.  

You might check around at other stores such as Lowe's or Harbor Freight.  Ask them if you can plug them in and see how loud they are.  You might run across one that's acceptable. In the meantime and for as long as you want to use it, your tank set up will be just fine for what you want to do.  
Let me know how it comes out and I hope this helps.  Thanks.

Ellen