Compressor for garages

It depends on how many mechanics use air at the same time and which tools are connected. As a guide, a 1/2" impact wrench uses around 300 l/min and a tyre changer around 150 l/min: add up the tools actually used together and keep a margin. The configurator on our website does this calculation for you from your tool list and headcount.

Yes, if use remains occasional: a few wheel changes during the day, tyre inflation, a quick blast with the blow gun. A piston compressor needs rest periods between cycles, and the air receiver provides the extra air when tightening. If the workshop does tyre work in volume or several workstations run at the same time, a screw compressor such as the 5.5 kW or the 7.5 kW 4-in-1 is better suited.

A tyre changer generally works at around 8 bar, compared with about 6.3 bar for most garage air tools. Check the working pressure stated on your machine's data sheet and choose a compressor whose maximum pressure covers it with a small margin, to make up for losses in the hoses.

It is not essential for inflating or tightening, but condensation water wears out air tools and rusts the pipework. A refrigerated dryer becomes useful as soon as air is used all day or also supplies a spray gun. The 7.5 kW 4-in-1 screw compressor already includes the dryer and filtration.

In a well-ventilated room or corner, protected from dust and exhaust fumes, on a stable, level floor. Keep it away from the customer reception area if it is a piston compressor, which is noisier. Connect it to the air network with a flexible hose to avoid transmitting vibrations, and allow easy access for draining and maintenance.

Drain the air receiver regularly to remove condensation water, check the oil level and clean or replace the intake filter at the intervals given in the manual. On a screw compressor, the first service comes early (500 hours on the 7.5 kW 4-in-1), then at regular intervals. AIRSTAHL service kits are grouped by model and held in stock in our warehouse in England.