Can I use a 4.5 cfm@40psi paint sprayer with 6.7 cfm@40psi air compressor with 4.5 gallon tank effectively?

Question

Paint sprayer is rated 4.5 cfm at 40 psi, compressor provides 6.7 scfm at 40 psi, but only has a 4.5 gallon tank. Will I have to pause so often for tank refill that it isn't worth it?

Answer 1

Yes you  will.   you need a larger air compressor.  the recovery rate for the air compressor is less than the usage of the paint sprayer.    My estimate is    you can spray for 30 seconds, then wait several minutes for then spray for another 30 seconds.

those numbers look good..but your missing the other numbers..  your paint sprayer is using more air than your compressor can provide.

If you have a large storage tank for the air.  you should have no problems preferably in the 40-60 gal range, for a relatively small job.

This is one of the few instances where numbers lie to you.  Its the other numbers that you are not paying attention to.

You didnt say what you plan on painting.. if its a house  I would put money on me with a brush..  to make it an even bet..   probably a two inch brush, an I would win.

Contact your local air compressor ppl and talk to them.  they will take care of your needs.

A home depot  will sell you the equipment, that will not perform  the job you want to accomplish.

Here is a forumla that i use in everything I do, whether it be carpentry. electrical,. plumbing.  etc....

Determine maximum  usage, of your present day situation, mulitiply by 4.  Your supply,  air electricty, water, etc. must meet that number or excede.  You will never have a problem with tools burning out lack of power  etc.   next month you will want a friend to help you out to speed thing up. he will have enough power also.

Answer 2

Should work, but look to see on the packaging of the gun first, that should tell you what is required.