I only have 4.77 CFM - still possible to spray small components?

David_M · Sep 8, 2018

I’m thing of buying one of these - https://www.amazon.co.uk/241184-Silent-Compressor-Garage-Clinic/dp/B00KDEVR9G

It needs to be small and quiet so that will limit what it’s capable of.

I only have small components to spray paint - nothing bigger than say a bike helmet (and normally less than half that size).

I’m looking at LVLP guns but a lot of them still seem to quote more than 6CFM, but I’ll only get a rated 4.77 from my compressor.

Do you think I can still make this work?

Thanks for any advice, much appreciated.

gaz1 · Sep 8, 2018

@optima21

he has used them so can tell you more

ive still got to collect the one he has for me but ive been busy

merryman · Sep 8, 2018

I used to use an airbrush for small jobs and my 3hp compressor (50 litre tank) hardly came on at all. I now use a supposedly HVLP, touch up gun. It doesn't make the compressor run all that much either. For a bike helmet and smaller, I would get a cheap airbrush, that compressor would be well oversize for one of them.

gaz_moose · Sep 8, 2018

for painting bike helmets I would also be using a small gun or an air brush. a big proper gun would be a nightmare.

armalites · Sep 8, 2018

The output of the compressor is more important if there is a need to run continuously but if you don't then that's what the tank if for. You could run a 10CFM spray gun on a 5CFM compressor if you had a big enough tank and could wait while the pressure builds. Sure the compressor will run for a long time but for small jobs that won't be an issue. The problem will come if you are expecting this to be a reliable long term solution if the jobs start to grow. As is always the case with these kind of things as you get into it you'll end up wanting to do more.

A small secondhand hydrovane would cost maybe 4 times as much but would be quiet and could run 24/7 with no issues

David_M · Sep 8, 2018

Thanks folks, really appreciate everyone’s input. I’ve ordered the 24L compressor and a 5 CFM gun to start with. I’ll let you know how I get on.

optima21 · Sep 8, 2018

I did get a R100 touch up spray gun, think I've only used it a couple of times, but its LVLP 125mm paint cup 0.8mm nozzle and quotes air consumption of 2.4 to 3.3cfm.