Gardner Denver Air Compressor (2023)

FAQs

Why won't my air compressor build pressure past 80 psi? ›

If your machine is plateauing around 40-80 PSI, this may be an indicator of a problem with the reed valve. The reed valve can be found on the top of each cylinder. To replace the valve, loosen the cap screws, remove, disassemble, replace the reed valves and gaskets and reattach the head plates to the cylinder.

Air tools made for general use with portable air compressors typically require 0 to 5 cubic feet per minute (cfm) at 70 to 90 pounds per square inch (psi), whereas with larger tools connected to stationary systems, the requirements usually exceed 10 cfm at 100 to 120 psi.

For example, if the impact wrench has an airflow requirement of 5 CFM, then the tank size of the air compressor must be at least 25 to 30 liters (6 – 8 gallons). In this case, you can expect the impact wrench to operate for about an hour or an hour and a half.

Take a Look at The Compressor Valves.

A failed air intake valve can make your air compressor fail to build pressure. Whether the air is leaking from the drain valves or the inlet valve isn't fully opening, pressure valve issues may be the cause of your air compressor problem.

If air pressure does not build up fast enough, your pressure may drop too low during driving, requiring an emergency stop. Don't drive until you get the problem fixed. Test Air Leakage Rate.

Air pressure build-up from 85 psi to 100 psi should take 45 seconds or less. While driving, observe the air pressure gauge during build-up to ensure proper air system operation.

Most air tools require between 70 and 90 PSI. Any light-to-medium-duty air compressor can easily handle 90 PSI, but you always want the compressor to supply more flow than needed.

Air pressure is measured in pounds per square inch, or PSI. Compressors for smaller jobs are rated for 90 PSI, while heavier-duty compressors may be rated for 150 PSI or higher. You can damage tools by using too much air pressure, so match the pressure rating of the tool to the compressor.

The enclosed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard 29 CFR 1910.242(b) requires that compressed air used for cleaning purposes must be reduced to less than 30 psig (pounds per square inch gauge, 204 kPa).

What is the maximum PSI for an air compressor? ›

Most 2 stage reciprocating compressors are designed to operate up to a maximum of 175 psi. Most rotary screw compressors are designed to operate efficiently between 90 and 125 psi. Some applications require high volumes of compressed air in the range of 45 to 60 psi.

Turn the cut-in adjustment screw using a screwdriver to set the cut-in pressure. Rotate the screw counterclockwise to make the compressor motor turn on at a lower pressure. Turn the screw clockwise to make the motor turn on at a higher pressure.

Air pressure

Single-stage compressors build pressure up to a shut-off around 135 PSI and are suitable for smaller air tools. For larger tools, an industrial two-stage compressor builds up to about 90 PSI in the first stage and then the second stage cylinder pressures up to about 175 PSI.