Using a Scuba Tank as a source for Air Tools?

harleyds · #1 Jan 18, 2004, 07:25 PM

So instead of buying an air compressor, coud I setup a hose and use it as the source of compressed air?

I did a bit of research and know that most compressor pump out air at about 125 psi. Since the scuba tank can kick out pressure up to 3000 psi, I would need to do it attach a regulator value to the scuba tank and set the output pressure to 125psi.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Theory or practical? I'm asking in a few forums since there doesn't seem to be a forum for Air Tools and I'm hoping some of you guys are experienced with air tools.

David

labman · Jan 19, 2004, 05:43 AM

It would work, but look at the CFM your tools need. I don't think a scubba tank would last long suppling most air tools.

harleyds · Jan 19, 2004, 10:56 AM

I'm not sure I understand the CFM Rating system. My logic is that the scuba tank would push out a certain pressure of say 125psi. The pressure would stay consistant until the tank ran low on pressure.

I don't really use air tools all that often, maybe only for rotating my tires, using an air hose to dust out the car or to fill up some infatable pool cushions. Do you think this is still feasible?

Thanks
David

labman · Jan 19, 2004, 11:13 AM

Cubic feet per minute. You also have standard cubic feet per minute. The amount of air in a cubic foot varies with the pressure. Each cubic foot at 3000 psi would expand to 200 scf. My sander uses 24.6 scfm at 90 psi. Air compressors may be limited to 125 psi max, but most air tools will work at a lower pressure. Most tools have curves giving air usage at a range of pressures.

saltypig · Apr 27, 2004, 05:52 PM

I know this is an old message, but if you haven't put anything together yet, you might want to check here:

http://www.saltypig.com/scuba/

charley

Quote:

author=harleyds link=board=exterior_home_improvement;num=107448634 9;start=0#0 date=01/18/04 at 20:25:49]So instead of buying an air compressor, coud I setup a hose and use it as the source of compressed air?

harleyds · Apr 29, 2004, 12:07 PM

Thanks, I ended up buying a compressor anyway for my air tools and then I bought a scuba tank to fill my paintball tank.

Nice diagram!

David

tommytman · Jan 30, 2005, 05:16 PM

You can get compressed air/N2/argon/helium tanks that won't need the scuba type valve on them and hold more gas. Compressed nitrogen/argon/helium use cga 580 regulators. Compressed air requires a cga 590 connection. The compressor is the way to go however.



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