I’m thinking of switching from a compressor to a large bottle I can fill up at a welding supply store, for my modeling needs. The quiet of a compressed gas bottle is a huge selling point, plus no wear and tear on a compressor that cycles. Does anyone run something like this, and can you offer pros and cons on it?
Thanks!
Chris
Chris, I just exchanged one of my CO2 bottles for a full one today at the welding supply store. It cost $13.08. I believe my lease on the two bottles (24" tall, 8’ diameter) runs about $100 a year. It’s quiet, no moisture problems and very easy to regulate. I started with one bottle, then got another so I could have a back-up when one ran out. A compressor is probably cheaper in the long run, but I really like the gas for all the above reasons. I wouldn’t go back. ymmv.
Gary
How many models do you get out of one tank?
Dirk, it’s really hard to give an accurate answer because I build so sporadically. I’m lucky if I actually finish two aircraft in a year. Also, with two tanks, I usually don’t remember how long it is between exchanges (fill ups if you will). I spray as much of each kit as possible of course, and thoroughly clean my airbrush after each color change. I would guess however, that if used judiciously, one 20lb. tank would paint 3 or 4 1/48 scale airplanes. I wish I could give you a more definitive answer, sorry.
Gary
One of the members of our local IPMS chapter is a commercial artist, and he has chosen to use a CO2 tank exclusively. Of course, he has a regulator and pressure gauge on it. He has demonstrated air brush use in general at a couple of our sessions, using the tank, and he turns out absolutely beautiful models!
I think it’s a good way to go.
Gary, no need to apologize-that was very helpful. Thanks guys, for your comments. Any others feel free to add to the discussion.
–Chris
I bought a CO2 tank many years ago. Recently, I found out that they have to get hydrostatic test whenever they are refilled. They also “expire” after 10 years; they should have a date stamped on them near the top. Once they expire, they have to be disposed of. If you get one of those, lease it from a gas supply shop instead of buying one.
CO2 cylinders have to be retested every 5 years. As long as they pass inspection they are good to go. I regularly see cyl that are 60 or 70 years old.
It might be cheaper to buy a cylinder rather than lease. You will have to pay to retest every 5 years, but in the long run it may be cheaper. (some welding supply stores won’t sell. lease only)
The couple guys I know who use 20# tanks, i’m pretty sure they paint a dozen or more aircraft from 1 20 pound cylinder, i’m guessing much more but not sure.
A regulator with a gauge and fine adjustment control and you’ll be set!
Well, if $100 is the average for a yearly lease, that puts me out of the running. That’s a little spendy for my tastes, at least until my compressor fails. Thanks for the info all.