Air Tools
Air tools, also called pneumatic tools, belong on the tool shelf of every
carpenter, mechanic, and do-it-yourselfer. Air tools are available
for almost every job. Common air tools used by carpenters and
woodworkers include drills, grinders, and nail guns as well as routers,
sanders, and saws. Popular pneumatic tools used by mechanics include
ratchets, wrenches, lubricators, and tire inflators. Paint sprayers
and impact hammers are used by wood workers, house painters, and
carpenters alike. In short, every common electrical tool also comes
in an air tool version.
Leading manufacturers of commercial quality air powered tools include Ingersoll Rand and DeVilbiss Air Power. Hutchins Manufacturing produces air powered sanding and surface preparation tools, while Chicago Pneumatic produces a variety of industrial grade air tools.
How they work
Air tools rely on compressed air, so you will need an air compressor to provide them with power. You use an air hose to connect your tool to your air compressor, turn on the air compressor, and then you are ready to work. To get the maximum benefit from your air compressor, follow these tips:
- Match the air pressure on your compressor to the air pressure required by your tool. You should be able to adjust the air pressure output by your compressor so you can use it with a variety of tools.
- Buy air hoses specifically made for your compressor so you get a tight seal between the hose and the compressor.
For help in choosing an air compressor, visit Every Air Compressor.
If you don't think you will use air tools enough to justify buying your own compressor, you can always rent both air compressors and air tools from a tool rental shop.
Advantages of Air Tools
Air tools offer many advantages over other types of tools. Air tools are:
- Light weight. Air motors are smaller and lighter than electric or hydraulic motors.
- More powerful. They typically offer more torque and power than electric tools.
- More durable and longer lasting. Air tools are the only tools that are still made with steel casings. In addition, they have fewer moving parts than conventional tools, making them more durable.
- Easy to maintain. Because air tools have few moving parts, an occasional light oiling is the only maintenance they usually need.
- Easy to use. Just connect the tool to your air compressor and begin working.
- Cost-effective. Although you must invest in an air compressor as your power source, air tools don't include their own electric motors, and thus tend to cost less than conventional tools.
Safety tips
Air tools are generally easy to use but you do need to follow some basic safety tips:
- Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maximum air pressure or the tool could explode.
- For tools such as grinders and cutters, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maximum speed.
- Wear eye protection to guard your eyes against flying debris.
- Wear ear protection. Both the air compressor and the tool itself are noisy.
Air tools are durable and long-lasting, making them a cost-effective addition to your home workshop. For more information about air tools and air compressors, visit Bob Vila's Air Compressors and Power Tools page. To learn about the benefits and uses of compressed air in a variety of settings, visit the British Compressed Air Society website.
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