Air Supply and Air Tools

What size air hose should I use for air tools?

Larger diameter and shorter hoses deliver more air to tools; 3/8 inch hoses suit most hand-held air tools, while 1/2 inch hoses help high-demand tools and long runs.

Is a retractable hose reel worth installing?

Short answer: A hose reel keeps hoses off the floor, reduces trip hazards and hose damage, and makes air available where it is needed; choose a hose diameter and length to suit your tools.

Loose hoses get run over, kinked and tripped over. Reels store hose neatly and retract after use.

Mount reels securely to a wall or ceiling following the maker's instructions. Choose hose diameter to match tool demand. Some reels include level-wind guides for even winding.

Place reels where hoses reach work bays without stretching across walkways, and consider a reel for each bay in busy shops so technicians are not sharing a single hose.

Control the hose while it retracts to avoid injury. Inspect hoses for wear, and wear safety glasses when working with compressed air.

Why do I need an air filter and regulator?

Short answer: A filter removes water, oil and debris from compressed air, and a regulator sets consistent pressure, protecting tools and improving paint and finish work.

Compressed air contains moisture and contaminants that cause rust and wear inside tools. Water in air lines also ruins paint finishes.

A filter separates water and debris. A regulator controls pressure so tools run at the maker's recommended pressure. Lubricators add oil for tools that need it, but keep oil out of paint lines.

Install filters close to where air is used, and consider additional drying for paint booths. Water traps on the compressor tank help but do not remove everything.

Drain filters regularly. Use rated components and depressurize before servicing. Wear safety glasses when working with compressed air.

When should I use an air hammer?

Short answer: Use an air hammer for cutting, chiseling, separating parts and driving seized components, with the correct bit and controlled pressure, keeping hands and bystanders clear.

Air hammers drive chisels, punches and separators to cut exhaust, break rusted fasteners and separate suspension parts. Different bits suit different jobs.

Use a retainer spring to hold bits securely, and only run the hammer with the bit against the work. Control pressure for precise work.

Pulling kits use an air hammer with adapters to remove parts such as injectors or ball joints. Follow the kit maker's instructions and service information for the specific job.

Wear safety glasses, a face shield, gloves and hearing protection. Keep hands clear of the bit, and never point the hammer at people.

How do I keep water out of my shop air lines?

Short answer: Drain compressor tanks regularly, install filters and drains near tool drops, and slope air lines so water collects where it can be drained instead of reaching your tools.

Compressed air contains moisture that condenses in tanks and lines. Water in air tools causes rust and wear, and it ruins paint work.

Drain the compressor tank daily or install an automatic drain. Use filters and regulators at the point of use, and slope lines with drain legs.

Replace filter elements on the schedule the maker recommends, and watch for oily water or rust at drains, which signals the system needs attention before tools are affected.

Release pressure before working on any air fitting, and wear safety glasses, as compressed air can blow debris. Never point an air hose at anyone.