Why doesnt my 20 gallon air compressor put out enough pressure to operate my straight grinder or air nozzle

Question

Why doesnt my 20 gallon air compressor put out enough pressure to operate my straight grinder or air nozzle

Answer 1

You need to know both PSI (pounds per sq inch) and CFM (cubic feet per minute).  If your compressor is "slow" then it can't keep up with the amount of air being used (the rate of air usage).

Grinders use a LOT of air.

Good Luck...

Answer 2

volume flow, the size of the tank is only part of the equation compressor capacity is the main factor. My compressor stores 20 gallon  but has a 12.5 hp kohler engine and will operate most anything i wish. also feeding the tools with 1/2 hose.

Answer 3

Because 'gallons' don't run a tool. You'll need CFM, cubic feet per minute, to run it. Instead of an 'oil less' air pump, get a belt drive pump that'll put out 12 cfm @ 90 psi.