Using Die Grinder with 20 Gal Compressor

[6-Speed]

I have an IR 20 Gallon Garage Mate compressor that puts out 5 cfm @ 90 psi. I was considering purchasing a 1/3 hp angle die grinder for some basic DYI clean-up work on parts, nothing heavy duty. I noticed these grinders consume lots of air. Would it be just a waste of money?

 

[Super Sport]

I've used one with a 7 gal Cman compressor. It isn't the best, but if I work slow it gets the job done.

 

[chrenan]

I've done it with a CH 20 gallon for small jobs, no issues.

 

[Matt018]

I use this one

http://www.harborfreight.com/air-angle-die-grinder-32046.html
I have a 30 gallon craftsman, and it work ok, When im doing body work or sharpening mower blades its easy to run the compressor down though. But for most automotive applications it would be fine. I also reccomend picking up this kit.

http://www.harborfreight.com/19-piece-3-inch-80-240-grit-surface-conditioning-kit-95469.html

or

http://www.harborfreight.com/complete-sanding-disc-kit-43029.html

they work great for surface prep, like when your doing waterpumps or similar things, Because the scoth brite pads dont leave allot of grit. And i use the sandpaper pads for most other light grinding, like sanding down the pads that drum brake shoes ride on. on the backing plate.

 

[6-Speed]

Thanks. I was thinking of getting an AirCat 6255 for it's low noise output. But the HF finishing accessories look like a good value.

 

[pipsters]

You'll be fine I use a 3" cutoff wheel to cut angle iron on my 120v 25 gal.

 

[KinzeMech]

It will do fine.

The compressor you have will probably be able to keep up with an angle die grinder up to about 50% duty cycle, which is good enough for anything less than heavy duty use.

I wish air tool manufacturers were consistent in their rating of air consumption of their tools. They publish a figure for "average" air consumption, but are not consistent about how they arrive at that figure. Usually, the figure they publish is about what a tool uses in a 25%-33% duty cycle, meaning it's actual usage while running is 3-4 times greater than that. In the case of the above linked grinder at harbor freight, (published at 3scfm@90psi), that will be an actual consumption of 9-12scfm.

 

[dandan111]

Never tried using air tools on a small compressor but if you set the compressor to lower psi I bet you will be happy. We all run max air and compressors empty fast,getting a little older and more wise I have turned my compressor down to 60psi. Fine for most of what I do,tires and such.

 

[haveissues]

I have no idea how much air the harbor freight grinder uses but it must be A LOT. That thing cycles my compressor faster than my blasting cabinet.

 

[Jawn]

Would it be just a waste of money?

Nope. I have a 20 gallon 1hp who-knows-what I got off Craigslist, it does okay with my IR/Powerforce die grinder.

 

[blacK20]

I have the same compressor and it runs my IR die grinder just fine. If you hold onto the trigger constantly, it drains the tank rather quick but that is to be expected. However with the 100% duty cylcle motor, once it kicks on I have never been in a situation where the tool felt choked.

 

[Skin]

only things you'd want to stay away from are cut-off tools and sanders/polishers. While you can use those as well it becomes a lesson in frustration constantly waiting for the tank to recharge.