Air Compressors

Air Compressors

Whether you’re in the manufacturing industry, construction, automotive or HVAC service, no work order can get off the ground without specialized pneumatic tools. An air compressor can help you use them effectively, so you can take care of business quickly and easily. Find the right one for the job at Tractor Supply.

Power Your Air Tools Whenever You Need

Air compressors can operate everything from ratchets, rotary tools and impact wrenches to paint sprayers, air hammers, chisels and staple and nail guns. They can also test and inflate tires, run air conditioning systems and more. For those working out of a home shop or on an industrial site, there’s one to help accomplish the task at hand.

The Right Pressure for Light- and Heavy-Duty Jobs

Powered by either a gas or electric motor, a compressor pulls in pressurizes air at a certain number of pounds per square inch (PSI). The air gets stored in a tank with a capacity often measured in gallons, and it’s delivered compressed at a certain volume rating, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM).

Higher PSI means more air can be stored in the tank, a wider variety of tools can work with the compressor and it can power them longer. Choose a compressor with a smaller tank for lighter-duty work, such as airbrushing and running a brad nailer or nail gun. For bigger jobs calling for stronger and more sustained airflow at higher CFM or SFCM, such as automotive work or remodels where you’ll be running heavy-duty air wrenches or framing nail guns, a larger tank is recommended.

Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage Models

Many air compressors are single-stage, using a piston that compresses air into the tank until it reaches a certain pressure. At this point, the compressor stops running, and you can use the stored air to power a tool. As you use the air, the compressor restarts, building pressure in the tank back up.

Two-stage air compressors, in contrast, are heavier-duty, using dual pistons — the first pushes air through a check valve, and the second pressurizes it in the tank. Designed for continuous use or powering multiple tools at once, at higher PSI, they’re ideal for commercial shop applications.

Stationary vs. Portable Compressors

Most air compressors are portable, meaning more compact and lightweight, and they feature smaller storage tanks. Good for quick, light-duty applications, such as airbrushing and powering most types of nail guns, they come in several configurations, including:

• Pancake compressors incorporate round, flat, bottom-mount tanks. They’re designed to be stable and to minimize the space they take up.
• Hot dog compressors feature single, horizontal tank cylinders. Hobbyists prefer them for running small air tools.
• Twin-stack compressors stack dual horizontal, cylindrical tanks to increase air capacity while economizing space.
• Wheelbarrow compressors have twin-cylinder tanks and feature handles or wheels that enable you to move them between work areas more easily.

Stationary air compressors, on the other hand, feature large, vertical, space-saving storage tanks, designed to be installed semi-permanently or permanently in a shop or garage. They’re higher-horsepower, so you can generally run them longer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Air Compressors

What are the advantages of gas air compressors?

Electric compressors are the most common kind — relatively quiet, low-maintenance and designed for use indoors, whether at home or work. Although they’re available in various voltages, most plug into a 120-volt household electrical outlet or 12-volt vehicle accessory outlet. If you’re working outdoors or where you can’t get a ready supply of electricity, you may prefer a gas compressor. These put out more horsepower than the electric-powered kind, so they can deliver greater PSI.

What is a rotary screw air compressor?

This type is usually stationary, although some can be transported atop trailers or skids. Commonly used in industrial settings such as factories and workshops, they’re designed to provide a consistent, continuous air supply efficiently, although they can be noisier and may require more maintenance.

Get the Best Air Compressor for Your Needs at Tractor Supply

You can visit your local Tractor Supply store or browse a complete selection of compressors, parts and accessories online — placing an order for delivery or in-store pickup is easy. Start your project right and buy today.