Posted by gary on June 23, 1999 at 17:32:41:
In Reply to: tank size?? posted by Nick on June 23, 1999 at 13:58:33:
Spoken like an engineer.
I think the word "buffer" is the key. It needs not only to work
like a damper to smooth out pulses but also to work as a battery.
Since one is not using the output continuously, the tank can allow
time for the pump to catch up. This means that the thing is running at
varying pressures between a min and a max and that the regulator is controling the
output to something below the min. I am not a paint expert but I do
use my compressor a great deal and as it is homemade, I have some understanding
of the principle.
By the way, this compressor is genuine Mopar: based on a V-twin air
conditioner compressor from a '60's Plymouth and driven by a 5 hp motor. Works great.