Air Compressor Hire
Dependable Air Compressor Hire in Auckland
Air compressors are some of the most versatile machines in the workshop. They can be used to power pneumatic drills and saws, spray painting, and with the proper safety attachments, inflating tyres and rafts. Yet, given all these things that it can do, air compressor hire is often more economical than owning, especially the larger models.
How to Operate an Air Compressor
It is always assumed that because you are hiring an air compressor, you know how they operate. We have found that even tradies who come to us for compressor hire sometimes don’t know how to use it efficiently. A quick run-down of the most basic procedures are as follows:
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Position. The compressor must always be placed on a stable and level surface. A concrete floor is the best, and where this is not possible, care must be taken to stabilise the surface using the most suitable material available. Never place a portable compressor on a table. At the same time, ensure that there is unrestricted airflow for the inlet and the cooling fins.
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Checks. We always thoroughly check our compressors before we send them out, but it is good safety practice to also check the compressor over before using it. Verify the oil level and make sure the condensation valve is closed. Check that the inflow filters are clean and that the hoses are not cracked. Make sure that the couplers are tight.
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Pressure. Switch on the compressor and allow the tank to fill. Verify that the pump switches off at the pre-set pressure. Double-check that the outflow pressure is correctly set for the tool being used and there is sufficient airflow. Not performing these last two checks is often the cause of poor results, especially with spray painting.
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Decompress. It is essential to decompress the tank when finished working or taking an extended break. The seals are designed for continued use under pressure, but nasty accidents happen when hoses and tools are disconnected from a compressor assumed to be empty.
Things to Note About Air Compressors
It is important to note a few things about air compressors and the operational tasks and checks, as these impact safety and results obtained using a compressor for hire service. Where possible, read the instructions thoroughly.
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Hoses. As the air moves through the hose from the compressor to the tool, it loses pressure due to friction. For this reason, it is important to use the minimum length of hose that still allows you to move freely and do the work. The other component that affects air pressure is the inside diameter of the hose. The smaller the inside diameter, the higher the percentage of the air flowing through it that encounters the inside wall. An inside diameter of 8 mm is considered the best for most spray painting tools.
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Do not touch. Never move a compressor while the pump is running. The reason is that the compressor can be dropped, and valves broken off, fingers or clothes caught in moving parts, and there is the sudden redistribution of lubricating oil for the pump and condensate in the tank.
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Safety. Do not neglect the necessary safety protocols when using an air compressor. Adequate ear protection is required when working in the proximity of a portable compressor, especial the models powered by a petrol engine.
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Pressure. Always keep an eye on the pressure gauges. A compressor is fitted with shut off valves and automatic pressure release valves, but either or both might fail. As soon as any gauges go into the red area, immediately switch off the compressor and call the compressor rental company.
About No. 8 Hire
We have single-phase electrical and petrol-driven industrial models available for the best air compressor hire in NZ. We provide South Auckland with quality tools and equipment, and we also deliver and collect if you cannot pick it up at our depot. Contact us for air compressor rental, air hoses and other tools.