compressor recommendations?

[TheDrescher]

Hey all,

I got an dual-action airbrush and compressor from the wife for Christmas last year and less than a year later, the compressor has already kicked out. I didn't overuse the brush or compressor so I'm slightly frustrated here. Can anyone recommend an compressor that they know has some longevity to it? Thanks!

 

[airhead]

Most of the homeowner rated stuff at the home centers will run an airbrush forever. But some of them are LOUD....

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No other comments since yesterday?

Airbrush compressors come in tiny (1/10 to 1/6th HP) diaphragm models. Quiet, not a lot of air or pressure if you want to do fabric....
Get one with a tank and an auto shut off for more consistent air and less moisture problems.

The home stuff tends to be diaphragm too, but more HP, more CFM, more max pressure - but more noise - generally.
Piston compressors tend to be found in the commercial stuff (auto shops, etc.) require more maintenance, but are quieter.

Finally, we get to rotary compressors - you'll probably only see these in commercial airbrush shops. Very quiet (the same compressor that is in your refrigerator). But they do require some maintenance - special oils, etc.

My personal favorite is the donut tank styles as they just work well for me. But currently I'm using a small hot dog tank with a very small (1/4 HP) piston compressor on it. Got a closeout deal at Sears and couldn't pass it up.

 

[Eelco]

I got an Euro Tec 20A. Extremely silent and has an small tank for air It only filled itself, when it needs to.
So the compressor isn't working all the time.

I like the compressor very much and am very happy with it.

 

[Shawn R. L.]

Try to have some sort of tank on it too. This will eliminate any pulsing from the compressor. Without, you can end up with dashed lines.