Air compressors are used for various purposes, including power tools such as air hammers, paint sprayers, and air ratchets. Compressors can also be used to fill air tanks and to power pneumatic tools and equipment.
Porter Cable air compressors are some of the most popular compressors in the market. They are renowned for their robustness and performance and are considered one of the best options for professionals and DIYers. Porter Cable compressors vary in size, power, and capacity. There are many different models to choose from, so it is important to select the right one for your needs.
9 Steps To Use Porter Cable Air Compressor In an Effective Way
Using a porter cable compressor is easy and a great way to complete many tasks around the home. They are specially designed to fill inflatable items, use it for power tools, and much more. These air compressors are also portable, so it provides an additional feature to use them anywhere over other air compressors that are not portable. The following instructions are for using a porter cable air compressor.
1. Assembly
After buying the air compressor, the first thing you need is to assemble the air compressor. It would be best if you had a wrench, tape, an air compressor hose, some necessary tools to use the air compressor, a good power source, and safety glasses.
2. Locate the compressor’s knob
Once you assemble your air compressor, find its knob, which is typically located close to the air outlet. Now turn the knob anti-clockwise to make sure it is fully locked.
3. Attach the air hose
It’s time to connect the air hose to the air compressor so we can use the pressurized air later with its help. There are two methods to connect the air hose; you can either directly connect it to the outer port or by the quick-connect fitting method.
4. Switch off
Before connecting the air compressor to the power source, make sure the switch is turned off. It is one of the most recommended safety options. But don’t worry; we’ll discuss all the safety precautions later in the article.
5. Connect to power source
This is one of the most important steps you must do carefully because too much power or less power can damage the compressor, which you surely don’t want to happen; mostly, it is recommended to use a specialized 15 amp circuit.
6. Turn on the switch
Once the plug is connected to the power source, turn on the switch. Now the air compressor is storing the pressurized air in the tank. When the tank is filled, and air pressure reaches maximum level, the air compressor will automatically turn off. It’s a safety feature that comes with all compressors to avoid explosion.
7. Connect the tools
As we have performed all the tasks to set up the porter cable air compressor, now it’s time we use it for our project. Attach the needed tools with the compressor’s air hose and customize the air pressure according to the tool by rotating the knob clockwise. Once you have the tools, turn off the switch.
8. Release the pressure
After you have done your work and turned off the air compressor, you have to release the air pressure. If the compressor has a pressure release valve, pull it to release the pressure. If your compressor doesn’t have a pressure release valve, open the drain valve of the air compressor. It is mostly located at the bottom side of the compressor.
9. Pack up
Keep your Porter Cable air compressor away from moisture and dust when not in use. Check the unit regularly for any signs of corrosion or leaks, and make sure to drain the tank before storing. This is especially important if you live in an area with high humidity, as it can corrode the compressor over time.
All the points briefly described above will eventually help you in the porter cable air compressor working. These compressors are made for ease; hence the way of working is also very simple.
Safety Comes First
It doesn’t matter whether you have a large air compressor or a small portable pancake compressor. If you don’t follow the right precautions and safety measures, they can harm you in many ways. Therefore, it is always advised to take the necessary security measures.
Read the Manual
One of the mistakes people make while using an air compressor is throwing out the manual. Although the points we discussed earlier are almost going to work when you use a porter cable air compressor, it is also important to read the manual. Hence, you know how things are working and do not end up causing any damage or accident with the compressor.
Air Pressure is Falling
While using the air compressor, it’s obvious that it will run out of air pressure. Porter cable Air compressors usually stop working when the pressure reaches a certain point. So, it is always recommended not to use the compressor by adding more air simultaneously. This can cause a very bad accident.
Electrical circuit overload
Air compressors have a very specific amp value to work properly. If your circuit is delivering more amps than the compressor need, it will surely burn out it. Make sure what your air compressor model is and how much power it needs. You can also seek help from the manual.
Drain the Air Compressor
It is highly recommended to drain the air compressor after use. Why? Because if you don’t drain the air compressor, it will create moisture in the tank, and this moisture invites the rust to come to the party. And that rust is going to damage the air compressor internally.
Safety Equipment
As the air compressor delivers high air pressure, it is always advised to use safety glasses to avoid debris or dust particles. Wearing protective gloves is a must. You can also use hearing protection if the compressor’s noise is causing problems.
Maintenance
Maintaining your air compressor is important if you want to run it for a long time. This will enable you to benefit the most from it. If you have an oil-lubricated compressor, you can change its oil regularly, make sure all the fitting joints are clean, look for debris in the hose or any opening and clean it properly to protect it from any blockage.
Wrapping Up
All the points mentioned earlier and all the safety precautions will help you if you are a newbie and need to learn about this. If you are using the porter cable air compressor for any DIY project or doing some home-related stuff. This article is surely going to help you. Just ensure you follow the guidelines carefully and implement them to get the most out of your air compressor. If you still have any questions, share your thoughts below.