Do i need a dryer for a compressor

Hi guys,

I've just got my brand new Aztek A7778 (^_^) airbrush from the states (side note: its awesome, very comfortable, nice weight and has a full range of nozzles and cups AND only $99 from ebay!). I'm considering several compressors, the more expensive (~£125) ones have reservoirs and water collectors, so i'm wondering if they are worth the extra cash? or will a cheap membrane compressor (~£50) be sufficient? I've never used airbrushes before, just good 'ol spray cans and sable!

thanks
Quyeno

A regulator and moisture trap are highly recommended, especially if you're living in a damp climate.
When air is compressed the water vapor in the air condenses, the moisture trap catches these droplets of water and prevents them from reaching the airbrush where they will be disastrous for your paint work.

You don't need a reservoir but you do need a moisture trap (especially in Glasgow). In addition, as freakray says, your compressor should have a regulator. You need to be able to get air pressures from around 10psi up to 35psi. I'm not sure but I think that membrane compressors can't make the higher pressures needed to spray enamels - I may be wrong. Don't buy a compressor unless it has a spec telling you what air pressures it can manage.

Cool, thanks for advice guys.

I would be sure to get a moisture trap, they are not expensive and there are many available that you can put in the air line. It's better safe than sorry, I'd say.

I use an 8 gallon 2 hp compressor with a moisture trap works great with the brush

Well for 99$, I would get an Iwata for 20$ cheaper before Aztek, but it's your choice

As for the compressor, try a search, we have this question every week or so.

I think the A7778 retails for around $170, so it was a bargain plus I like the range of nozzles available and the ease of cleaning.

If you are in the UK (as I suspect you are) I would say a moisture trap is vital. We get a lot of condensation over here that can ruin a perfect paint scheme. A regulator is also very useful.

At harbor freight tools you can buy a compressor with the moisture trap and regulator for 100 bucks.

wow! that is cheap,but unfortunately i'm from the UK and i reckon shipping would be at least $50 if not more!

Is it possible to fit regulators and moisture traps on most airbrush compressors? if so what type of fitting should i look out for on the compressor which will allow me to fit one on?

Compressors all use standard fittings, in the UK it would be a BSP thread fitting, go to a hardware store, ask for compressor fittings and you should be able to find what you're looking for.

cool, thanks mate. makes buying a compressor much easier now.