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Fridge compressor to run Micro Grinder

Posted: Fri Oct 22, 2010 7:00 pm
by Lazyboy
I need some advice on if a Fridge compressor would be able to run this micro grinder

SPEC:
70000 RPM Free Speed
3mm / 1/8" Capacity
1/4" Air Inlet
Consumes 2CFM @ 90PSI

I think the flow will be to low, but would 2 or more connected in parallel provide what is needed.

I have a 4lb CO2 fire extinguisher that I will use as a tank.

Posted: Fri Oct 22, 2010 7:10 pm
by Technician1002
Hmm, A fridge compressor is often between 1/4 and 1/8th HP. A 2 CFM compressor is typically in the 1 HP range.. I could see you waiting a long time between bursts to wait for the pressure to build back up.

Posted: Fri Oct 22, 2010 7:12 pm
by c11man
just get a normal shop compressor. will provide all the flow you need and more.

and only 2cfm at 90psi? that sounds extremly low

Posted: Fri Oct 22, 2010 7:30 pm
by POLAND_SPUD
Output of all fridge compressors (by 'fridge compressor' I mean a refrigeration pump mounted in typical fridges - not all refrigeration compressors) that I've seen is lower than 2CFM (typically around 0.7 CFM - though it probably isn't given in CFM @ X pressure but at atmospheric pressure)

So forget about it - it won't be enough for any practical use. You'd have to wait a couple of minutes after each minute of work so that the compressor can fill up the tank again.


Though don't forget that there are AC compressors and refrigeration compressors too. They should have a lot higher flow and thus are more suitable.


Have a look here
http://www.werther.com/product/Panther- ... 4&HCatid=4
I guess you'd need at least a 1HP compressor, but the more the better

Posted: Fri Oct 22, 2010 7:40 pm
by jrrdw
You need a air sorce with a much higher recovery rate. The small size of a fidge pump just can't push enough air.

Posted: Fri Oct 22, 2010 11:22 pm
by Lazyboy
Thanks for the replies, I thought it would not work but I like the quite Fridgy.
I had a look at Bunnings and found a Trade Air compressor for abit over $100 (NZ), with my sons discount.

Posted: Sat Oct 23, 2010 12:30 am
by Technician1002
Some of the small compressors for nail guns are in the 1/2 CFM size. My little 3 gallon 1/3 HP unit is that small. Make sure you get one large enough to run the grinder. They use a lot of air.

Here is a link to mine.. 0.6 CFM at 90 PSI.
http://www.kaboodle.com/reviews/central ... compressor

Specs;
* Low maintenance oilless design * For brad nailing, stapling, inflating, or air brushing * Cut-in pressure: 85 PSI; Cut-out pressure: 100 PSI * Easy-to-read gauges * Thermal overload protection * Includes quick connect coupler 6 ft. power cord; 120 volt, 60 Hz input power; Max. pressure: 100 PSI; 2.6 amps; Air outlet: 1/4"-NPT female; Air delivery: 0.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI, 1 SCFM @ 40 PSI