If you make regular use of your air compressor, you might benefit from some additional air compressor accessories that will further enhance the versatility of the equipment. There are a variety of accessories for air compressors that are handy for just about anyone, as well as plenty of other more niche accessories that will help you accomplish very specific tasks.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most essential air compressor accessories you should consider adding to your shop in order to get the most out of your equipment.
Air hose
The air hose is the most common accessory used with air compressors—and also the most important. Many air compressors will come with an air hose already, but you may opt for a hose that provides you with additional versatility, such as a longer hose or a hose with different materials.
Most experts recommend the use of a ⅜-inch air hose, as it provides the most optimal level of airflow. You can find these hoses in rubber, polyurethane or a blend of the two materials (often referred to as hybrid compressor hoses). Rubber holds up well to temperature changes, but polyurethane does the best in extreme conditions while offering greater flexibility and durability.
Fittings
There are a variety of air hose fittings that you can purchase for specific connections and jobs. For example, you can choose between couplers, manifolds, elbows, connectors, splicers and many more. Be sure to purchase your fittings anodized; this means they’ll be resistant to any rust or corrosion. You should also be sure that any fittings you purchase are the right size for your air tools.
Lubricants
You’ll need to keep your air compressor well lubricated. Most air compressors will come fully stocked with oil already, but, eventually, you’ll reach the point where you need to get new oil for the compressor pump. If you have an oil-free model, you won’t have to worry about this, but if your model does require oil, you should regularly check the compressor’s oil level before operation.
Having compressor oil on hand prevents you from being in a situation where you have to wait to perform a job until you’re able to purchase the oil. Be sure to read your manufacturer’s instructions for information about the type of oil you’ll need for your equipment and how often you should change it.
Expansion tank
If you need more air than what you can store with your built-in storage tank, you can purchase an air expansion tank designed for your compressor. The tanks come in a wide range of sizes and shapes and give you some excess air storage for larger jobs. Make sure any reserve tank you purchase has the proper certifications from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
Interested in more examples of air compressor accessories you can add to your collection to give you greater versatility with the equipment? Contact us today at Wenniger Compressor Co. with any questions you have for our expert team, and we’ll be happy to help.