Do I need a filter to run air tools ?

[Paul90]

Having convinced myself that there is no point wasting money on rubbish air tools I've started to invest in some "proper" ones and I've just bought an Ingersoll Rand 2135QTiMAX


I've read loads of stuff on the 'net about compressed air supplies.
In time I'll install some copper pipe around the worshop and have a proper filter and regulator rather than rely on the one fitted to the compressor but for now I'm running the tools directly from the regulator fitted to the compressor.

What's the real world experience ?
Have people been running tools direct from the compressor with no filter / moisture trap without problems ? I'm thinking moisture and bits of rust out of the tank is not going to do them any good.

Paul

 

[the snooper]

i wouldnt run my tools without a water filter inline as for air filter your compressor will filter air at the pump

 

[tigler]

Operating air tools from unfiltered air without lubrication is definitely going to reduce their life. Install an FRL (filter , regulator ,lubricator) from the receiver and show your tools the love !!

 

[stormin]

Definately use an air filter / water seperator at least and make sure it flows enough air to not restrict your tools.
Some of the smaller and cheaper units will restrict the air before it gets to the tool.
I've never bothered with a lubricator just oil the tools manually before and after use. Main reason is I also want to use the same air lines to spray paint and don't want oil contaminated air going through the gun.
No reason you can't rely on the regulator on the compressor to set air pressure but having one as close to the tool as possible helps with efficiency.

 

[brightspark]

water seperators

if u are fitting a second water seperator at the end of line dont bother with the small mickeymouse ones from machine mart. get the 1/2inch bsp bore ones that they do there about 16 quid i think .the small ones can fill up with water quick and also restrict the flow

 

[mike os]

dont use an inline oiler if you use the same supply to paint

water trap is essential

 

[tigler]

You can take off a feed from a port before the lubricator for oiless air.

 

[mike os]

true enough.... I just used to forget.....crap for brains maybe...

 

[stormin]

You can take off a feed from a port before the lubricator for oiless air.

No good if your using the same lines and there's still oil in them.

 

[brightspark]

why bother with an oiler. i had one chucked it away just 3 drops of oil before use. it isnt industry ive had airtools 30 years and still running fine

 

[tigler]

Depends on the oiler , I mean the adjustable type attached after the filter regulator. I prefer the convenience compared to oiling tools before use , also if any tool is used for prolonged periods it needs more than just once a day. Personal preference I suppose.

 

[MrFluffy]

I have a oiler thats on a short run of hose with pcl connectors either end. I run the hose dry, and snap the oiler section in as the last length before the tool, that way I don't have to remember which hose etc has been ran with oil in it and I can keep an eye on level in it.
Having said that, if Im just doing a short job with the tool, Ill just squirt oil into the intake at the start, I only bother with the oiler if the tools going to be flat out for hours (air chisels are great for stripping render...)