Framing works are not so simple. Framing crews got to shape up many wooden pieces to prepare them for a bigger project. To do that, a framing crew requires an air compressor. Well, it is the modern world, and using a hammer is backdated now.
But for framing crews, an air compressor needs to provide a faster outcome with a steady flow. There are certain conditions it must meet. A compressor that matches those requirements is not that easy to find, especially without enough knowledge.
But you can save your time by choosing one of the air compressors below that excel at framing works.
5 Best Air Compressor for Framing Crew Reviews
01. Makita MAC5200 Big Bore Air Compressor
Top air compressors have their standard features to prove their worth. The Makita MAC5200 Big Bore Air Compressor has such features with fine control. It is built for maximum easy usability. The position of the parts in the device is perfect.
This dual-stage air compressor generates 6.5 CFM airflow at 90 PSI, thanks to the 3 HP motor. You may think that this is much than you need. But it gives you a wide option of performing different tasks too. To make this happen, the motor runs on 120 V and draws 13.8 amps.
The cast iron body parts help it concealing the high heat that may happen.
It has an oil-lubricated pump. So, it lasts so much longer while creating so little noise and heat. You can detach the cylinder if needed. The two handles at the front and the back are portable to give you the best mobility and storing benefit.
The additional air hose is 50 feet. It comes with an extra air filter and an oil drain. It is rare to see so many utilities in one device. It would be best if you tried this air compressor.
02. DEWALT Air Compressor
The DEWALT Air Compressor is an air tool made for all types of projects that requires a high surge of air flowing. This item can be called the most mobile air compressor that also comes with some high pressure and airflow ratings.
To provide continuous air for a longer time, the compressor contains 4.5 gallons large tank. As the device has an extremely high-pressure limit of 225 PSI, the motor fills within some seconds. Making your framing works faster, 5 CFM air at 90 PSI is flown out of it.
It also allows the machine to repair so fast from its exhausted stats.
With a body length of 33.5 inches, this air compressor features a stand with a vertical design. Two handles positioned parallel to the ground lets you lift and carry it. Alternatively, you can transport it using two large and durable wheels.
Its powerful motor operates with a low sound level of 78 dBA. For your work to complete faster, it creates 1.6 HP.
Taking only 120 Volt, this air compressor has the potential for solving all your troubles.
03. Grip-Rite GR152CM Twin Tank Compressor
It is quite rare to find an air compressor with such epic utilities as the Grip-Rite GR152CM Twin Tank Compressor. From control to ratings, this air compressor is the best at all of them. Its specs will wonder you.
Perfect for framing crew’s tasks, this air compressor can generate a high pressure of 125 PSI inside its body. Featuring faster internal recovery, the machine delivers 2.6 CFM air at 90 PSI into its application with a steady flow.
Additionally, you also can get 3.4 CFM at 40 PSI from the device. This factor lets you perform your framing project a lot quicker.
Ensuring a quick and better output, this air compressor comes with a heavy-duty pump with an oil-free feature. As a result, you save a lot. It can deliver you its service for over 4000 work hours.
From its peak exhausted condition, the compressor can recover within only 10 seconds. Meanwhile, the pump takes 50 sec to be ready. The tank contains 2 gallons.
Its motor only produces 75 decibel sound. With amazing regulators and pressure gauges, you can spend the money on this compressor with trust.
04. PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor is an air compressor that can be used for multiple purposes. It is because of how the device is made with all the necessary functions. Every part of this item makes your labor more convenient.
Mix this air compressor with your skill, and your framing will be top-notch. For the maximum advantages, the manufacturers made this compressor create 150 PSI of pressure at max. Together with the 6-gallon tank capacity, you won’t need to recharge your tank so often.
The 2.6 CFM airflow at 90 PSI allows for a faster outlet. It also lets the device to cool down swiftly.
To let you use clean air, the tank comes with a water drain valve. There are rubbery feet beneath for a steady set-up and less vibration. Starting up even in the harshest weather conditions, the motor requires 120 volts of electricity.
Since the pump is oil-less, it has a cheaper maintenance cost. As an extra means of protection, there are a console and shroud. Aside from framing, you can also use it for tire inflating. It’s just the device your workplace needs.
05. California Air Tools CAT-4610AC Twin Tank Electric Portable Air Compressor
Coming with the epic amenities to please your mind as you are using it in your workplace, the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC Twin Tank Portable Air Compressor is a top-tier product. All its fine traits will surely wonder you.
For any framing project, this air compressor is ideal with its high air pressure limit of 120 PSI. This lets the machine to provide a better result. At 90 PSI, it flows 2.2 CFM outside, and at 40 PSI, the airflow is 3.1 CFM. It is great for almost any light-duty tasks. It also allows a prompt recovery.
There is thermal protection in the machine to prevent overheating. It only drains 8.5 Amps. With a 1760 RPM oil-free pump, you can use this item for a pretty long time. It can deliver its service up to 3000 hours.
The 1 HP motor makes only 60 dB, that too on only 110 volts at 60 Hz. It has two pistons, where each is large sized. It weighs only 45 pounds to let you carry it. We suggest you check it out today.
Buying Guide for The Best Air Compressor for Framing Nailers
Do you want to leave the old-fashioned hammering process to frame a wooden workpiece? Then an air compressor is an item next in the line. It is a great device that can surprisingly change how you work. It works faster and takes so little effort.
But just like many other tasks, framing also needs certain types of air compressors. Framing crews must frame the nails at a fast speed. It is not possible with a low-grade product.
If you want to take the matter at hand, and explore through many air compressors to find the right one, consider the factors below. They will help you to choose the right item.
Pressure and Airflow
If you want to browse through many air compressors, the pressure and airflow are the two factors you have to check first. For any framing crew, an air compressor must have a maximum pressure of at least 120 PSI.
Airflow, the rate at which air goes inside the application, is probably even more important. At 80 to 120 PSI, an air compressor has to generate 2 CFM at the least.
Oil-Free or Oil-Lubricated
As you explore different compressors, you might notice that some of them are oil-less, and some are oil-lube. The main differences between them are cost and longevity. Normally, oil-free costs less, both during the purchase and for maintenance.
Oil-lubricated air compressors are expensive but take less damage while also offering quieter operation. They mostly take a lot of space to store.
Single or Dual Stage
You can get a single-stage air compressor for most light-duty tasks as they generate less pressure and airflow. On 1 HP, they give 1 CFM. Meanwhile, the dual-stage ones are much expensive, as the airflow they provide is higher in comparison.
For every 1 HP, a dual-stage air compressor delivers 4 CFM. As your framing task needs an airflow between 2 to 6 CFM, a dual-stage compressor is ideal for you.
Electricity of Gas-Powered
The power source of an air compressor is also an important point. Depending on your work environment, you can pick which type of air compressor is suitable. For example, in marine areas, electric-powered compressors are risky to use.
On the other hand, Gas powered ones cost much to maintain and shouldn’t be used in high heated areas.
Motor Power
For most light-duty tasks, at least 1 HP is the standard motor power. If you want to use your air compressor on framing projects, get one within 1 to 3 HP motor.
FAQ's
Do Framing Air Compressors Need Pressure Gauges?
They surely do. Pressure gauges are there to adjust and check the pressure of the air compressor. Without a pressure gauge, no project can be done with the air compressor.
Why You Need a Quality Air Compressor for Framing?
You must get a quality air compressor for framing. Otherwise, the nails and bolts won’t be framed properly, ruining your project. For instance, if an air compressor fails to deliver the least airflow required for a framing job, the task will be impossible to complete.
Can I Run A Framing Air Compressor on Battery Power?
In certain conditions, you can. You can even find battery-powered air compressors on the market. They are mostly tinier sized, digital, and for light-duty tasks. If you want to use a battery on your compressor, it must be on AC.
DC batteries are not compatible with air compressors. It is possible to use a converter to change DC to AC.
Conclusion
Since you have read it this far, you probably found your required air compressor already. If not, take the help of the buying guide. Always be careful of any defects in the new machine. If there is, contact the seller as quickly as possible.
It is advised to always go for famous brands as their products are more likely to be better. They also will mostly help and respond to you than random brands.
Olivia Archer provides in-depth coverage of air compressors, air compressor accessories, tire inflators and all things related to air compressors. She is a mechanical engineer and air compressor expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry.
Olivia’s articles are informative, well-researched and provide readers with valuable insights and information to help them make informed decisions when purchasing air compressors and accessories. She is passionate about the industry and is always looking for new ways to share her knowledge and expertise with readers. When she’s not writing for the website, Olivia can be found working on her own DIY projects, experimenting with different tools and techniques, and expanding her knowledge of the industry.
