Question about adding tank to compressor

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Painting and airbrushing
1

I love my Iwata Smart Jet. I’m thinking about adding a tank to be able to get rid of pulsation in a psi below 10.

I’d need a tank w/ a regulator, right? How big a tank should be? Can anyone point me to a good starting point (e.g., a Web site)? What company makes a good tank with a regulator? I’ve look at Amazon and there are so many tank brands…

2

Had this for about 6 years with no problems. There’s many threads about compressors around but I think a tank is a must.

www.ebay.com.au/…/190408983945

Mick.

3

Chrik-k

Did you see this one on Amazon - something to think about:

http://www.amazon.com/Replacement-Storage-Tank-Liters-806RT/dp/B004405QME/ref=pd_sbs_auto_7

Same size as my Sparmax TC620x and I think fine for an airbrush tank.

4

I don’t know how readily available they are in the US (assuming that’s where you are), but what about a Sparmax Airtank System? The 2.5L airtank system has a 60/40 pressure switch, regulator & drain valve / pressure relief valve. It’s pressure switch is wired through a trailing power socket which you plug your compressor into & the airtank then takes over the running of the compressor, turning it into a fully automatic set-up. Works a treat with the Sprint & Smart Jet compressors (coming from the same factory…).

5

I didn’t know about a Sparmax Airtank System. It’s exactly what I need!!!

Edited to add: Dang, it doesn’t seem available in the US. Not sure if I want to import one from UK and combine it with a 120v-to-240v converter.

6

I have the Silver Jet, which is very similar to your Smart Jet. I was disturbed when I first began using the compressor. I could feel the vibrations just touching the hose. However, the pulsations are at a very high frequency. I have found no ill effects in the paint jobs, so I have stopped worrying about it.

7

I don’t think 120/240 is relevant as the airtank is operated by the same pressure switch that’s used for both 120/240 compressors - no power consumption, just the switch. The trailing socket is a “multi-socket” type affair that takes Euro, UK & several other plug types - not certain about NEMA though. There are some reasonable images on the Sparmax site that show the socket (images 1 & 2); http://www.sparmaxair.com/product_detail.php?id=3&r=45

8

I downloaded and read the manual. It says the compressor should be powered by the socket connected to the air tank system. Anyway, $120 is a reasonable price for such a system. Well, I’ll contact Sparmax.

9

Well, Sparmax can send one directly from their Taiwan HQ for $125 including 3 day shipping. I’ll order one.

10

I have heard that the Iwata Smartjet had problem at lower pressure setting due to its breeder type pressure regulator. I wonder if the problem can be easily solved by replacing it with a true diaphram type regulator used in Iwata/Sparmax’s higher end model.

I have add a one gallow airtank to my Passche DA400. It is a fun project if you like that type of task. But it is not a cheap solution. For modelers in the US, the cheapest way to do it is to buy a tools compressor with an airtank, usually at the cost of $45-60. Throw away the noisy compressor and replace with a nice airbrush compressor with sufficient power.