If a 60 gal 3HP compressor delivers the CFM I require what is the advantage of a 5HP 60 gal. I need a minimum of 6.5 cfm for a vacuum pump but would also like to be able to run some other small tools. Also I would prefer the compressor to be as quiet as possible and go on as few times as possible over a typical 2-3hr vac session.
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Replies
The size of the motor is matched to the size of the air compressor it drives. A larger motor can drive a larger compressor which will cause the pressure to recover faster so the pump won't run as long each time it turns on. A larger motor and compressor combination will also deliver more air for high demand applications where the air is used continuously and you don't want to have to stop to allow the air pressure to recover.
The only way to quiet down a compressor is to put it in a sound dampening enclosure or to get it outside of the shop, which is the best approach if that is possible.
You might consider buying a small vacuum pump for veneer and lamination work. If the bag and fittings are tight, the pump will only run a few minutes out of each hour and will be quieter than a large air compressor.
John White
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