Air compressor upgrading question

[antalog]

I came across a Gast 20 gallon 1/2 HP air compressor a guy is selling that Im pretty sure is similar to this model

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D604UNY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

He told me it came from a warehouse where it sat in a closet and was just a backup for the sprinkler lines, which makes sense from what the manufacturer says.

The issue is the specs say it has a 50psi max output rating. How hard is it to get the compressor up to a more common air tool usable rating? They seem like real solid compressors and the price is right, but Im not smart enough to be messing with pressure valves and tank integrity all willy nilly.

Is it worth trying to get a compressor not rated for that amount of pressure upto a usable 90? Could it even work for air tool kind of applications?

Any input on this is greatly appreciated.

 

[Kenskip1]

First of all you have come to the right place.Second I am unable to answer your question.
But you are not smart enough? How about not putting yourself down? Just because you do not know something does not make you dumb or stupid.You are smarter than you think however, you appear to lack self confidence.If I were you I would simply wait a day or two and see what can be done with this compressor. from the very knowledgeable people on this forum.I would not get your hopes up but this is worth a shot, Ken

 

[hangfirew8]

There are two factors here. The air pressure cutoff switch, and/or possibly air regulation valve, is set to 50PSI.

The other is the pump max pressure rating.

I think a call to the manufacturer is in order. They can tell you whether the pump's true limits, and whether it can be retrofitted with parts to bring up the PSI.

http://gastmfg.com/products/compressors-and-pumps/pistons-dry-sprinkler/4lcb-46s-m450gx

 

[md21722]

Sprinkler system & climate control compressors are often rated low PSI because they don't need high PSI to perform their function. A 1/2 HP compressor on a 20 gallon tank is pretty darned small compressor. Unless it was free I'd look elsewhere. Just changing rotating tires would be an ordeal.

 

[American Locomotive]

It's only rated for 3 CFM @ 40 PSI, and at 90-100 PSI it'd hardly be generating any air at all. It'd be pretty much useless for anything but inflating tires, I think.

These compressors are used to pressurize a dry sprinkler system. It's really meant to charge the system up, and only top it off when needed. I don't think it's really meant to be used as a general use compressor.

 

[antalog]

That all makes sense. I appreciate all the info and advice. I'm thinking about stepping up my air setup. The house Im in is almost 100 years old and I can hear EVERYTHING. So I've been looking for a compressor that runs much quieter than my HF compressor. I have a lot more research and learning to do. The CFMs at PSI's are all things Im getting my head around still.

You're right Kenskip1, maybe not not smart enough, but definitely not knowledgeable enough

Much appreciate everyone.

 

[gdocktor3]

Yea that compressor is under powered to use for air tools and not worth upgrading. If I were you, I'd continue searching Craigslist and other similar sites like Letgo, and find something you can use. Compressors are pretty noisy, so trying to find a used ultra-quiet version might be difficult. Plus, you only hear the compressor when you're using it. When you're using it, you'll hear the impact wrenches, air ratchets, die grinders, etc anyways, so don't go crazy looking for an ultra-quiet. No matter what, you're family/room mates will hear you when working with air tools.

 

[UltimatE]

That compressor is built for a very specific reason, which is why it costs an arm and a leg with such paltry specifications compared to even a harbor freight air compressor for 1/10 the cost. It is safety related device that I imagine must meet strict guidelines and is installed strictly in industry & businesses.

If you're looking for an upgraded air compressor for your garage/shop, I would get a minimum of a 30 gallon, and depending on how much you're going to use air tools, step up closer to a 60 gallon. From personal experience, a 30 gallon Craftsman oilless compressor wouldn't even run 1 tool continuously. Using a cut-off wheel, I would have to stop and wait for it to charge. If you just need to fill tires, even a 30 gallon is overkill and a pancake will suffice.

If getting a quiet compressor is high on your priority list, most definitely get an oiled compressor and modify the intake. Oil-less compressors are cheaper, but notoriously noisy.

This of course is a shot in the dark, as I don't know what you're specific use will be. Give us some more information and we can point you in a better direction.

 

[littletoes]

Nobody mention the ASME pressure vessel rating on the tank? Is it rated to go to a higher pressure? Don't want to make a bomb...