Homemade compressor for a car. Do-it-yourself garage compressor: how to make it right. Some technical data and service features

To make your own compressor you will need a refrigerator, or rather, just one part of it. Often such a device is used together with a spray gun or airbrush.

It makes virtually no noise during its operation and has small in size, creating quite a strong pressure. This unit is also suitable for inflating car wheels.

What do we need?
1. The motor installed in the old refrigerator is the compressor. In general, all models are quite similar; if there is a difference between them, it is not significant.


The black box attached to the side is a relay from which comes a power cable with a plug.

2. The container into which the compressor will pump air is the receiver. Any hermetically sealed iron or plastic 3-10 liter container is suitable for such purposes. Alternatively, you can use a fire extinguisher, a tank from a truck, a small tank or a can of construction fluids.

receiver

3. To make a compressor, you will need three hoses: a pair of 10 cm and one 30-70 cm long (depending on the characteristics of the receiver). Car hoses are ideal, as they will be connected to their own “original” filters.

4. Another hose or tube is needed to connect the compressor to the air consumer. The material of the product, as well as its length, are determined by specific needs. If you plan to use the compressor together with an airbrush, a thin polyvinyl hose will do. The one that comes with the airbrush can also be used. If you plan to use the compressor for outdoors, it is better to find a hose of greater thickness.

To make a compressor you will also need:

Clamps (5 pcs. 16 or 20 mm each);
Copper or iron 6 mm tubes, one piece at a time (the diameter can be larger, the main thing is that the hoses fit on them). The length of the first tube is 10 cm, the second is 20-50 cm;
One filter per car (diesel and fuel);
Epoxy resin, soldering iron, welding machine;
Pressure gauge (optional);
Base for receiver and motor ( a board will do made of wood of appropriate sizes);
Steel tape;
Self-tapping screws;
The following set of tools: screwdriver, drill, pliers, knife, metal file.

Making a compressor from a refrigerator

At the compressor outlet there are three tubes: a sealed one (the shorter one) and the other two open ones. It is necessary to figure out which of them is the input and which is the output. To do this, move your finger over the inputs of the tubes, after connecting the compressor to the network. The one that blows air out is the exit, the one that draws it in is the entrance. Disconnect the compressor from the mains and note the position of the inlet and outlet.

Use a metal file to saw off a couple of tubes, leaving at least 10 cm for easy connection of the hoses. Alternatively, you can try to bite off the required part of the tubes with pliers. The main thing is to make sure that no sawdust gets inside.

Now the compressor needs to be secured to a wooden base by screwing its legs with self-tapping screws. For more reliable fixation We recommend using bolts. The compressor must be secured in exactly the same position as it was done in the refrigerator. The fact is that the relay operates under the influence of gravity. After fixing the compressor on a wooden base, you can move directly to the receiver.

If a plastic container is used as a receiver, drill two holes in its lid to install the tubes and insert them there. Secure the tubes using epoxy resin. Leave 2-4 cm of tubes outside (on top of the lid). Use a 10 cm tube as the outlet tube.

The second should be much longer and practically reach the bottom of the receiver. It is necessary to move the inlet and outlet as far as possible from each other - this will ensure the best mixing of the air in the receiver itself.
For a metal receiver, you need to do the same thing, with the only difference being that the tubes need to be soldered or welded. The nuts can also be welded, and then you need to screw the hose fittings into them.

The pressure gauge is installed only in an iron receiver.

Just drill a hole in it and solder (weld) the pressure gauge. However, it would be more convenient to weld a nut into the hole and screw the pressure gauge into it. So, if it breaks, you can easily replace it with a new one.

Now you need to secure the receiver to a wooden base. Attach with steel tape, placing it directly next to the motor. Use self-tapping screws for this.

We go further - we put a 10-centimeter hose on the gasoline filter. There will be no difficulties with the appropriate hoses (for a gasoline filter), but polyvinyl tubes may need to be heated to fit onto the filter. This can be done with a lit match or by holding them in boiling water for a while. The other end of the hose must be placed on the compressor inlet tube. A filter installed at the inlet is necessary to filter out dust. In this case, it is not necessary to use clamps on the connections: there is no pressure at all.

Another piece of hose is needed to connect the “input” of the compressor to the “output” of the receiver. You need to put clamps on their connections.

We put one end of a 10-centimeter piece of hose on the outlet tube of the receiver, and the other on the diesel filter. Each of the filters has an indicator arrow indicating the direction in which the air moves through them, so there will be no difficulties with connecting them correctly. A diesel filter, which is installed at the outlet, is necessary to filter water from the air.

The working hose connected to the airbrush must be put on the outlet fitting of the diesel filter.

From below on wooden base you need to screw on the rubber feet. As an option, you can also glue felt linings. Otherwise, the vibrating compressor will scratch the floor during operation. The degree of vibration, as well as the noise emitted by the device, depend on the chosen model: those installed in imported refrigerators are practically silent, domestic ones are also relatively quiet, however, there are exceptions among them.

The pressure that the finished device will create also depends on its model. The older the motor, the higher its power. So, good old Soviet compressors produce up to 2-2.5 bar, and some up to 3.5 bar.

Maintenance

The filters installed in the compressor need to be replaced frequently. Oil that accumulates in the receiver must also be drained. Please note that key factor One thing that affects the service life of a homemade compressor is the regularity of oil changes. It is better to make the first replacement before assembling the device.

There is also a third tube on the motor; it is sealed. It is necessary to cut off its sealed end, turn the motor over and pour out the oil (there will be a glass somewhere). Using a syringe, pour fresh water into the tube. motor oil, there should be a little more of it than you just drained.

In order not to re-solder the tube through which you drained (filled) the oil, simply screw a bolt into it, which can be easily unscrewed at the next oil change.

It is not necessary to buy a compressor for painting work or inflating wheels - you can make it yourself from used parts and assemblies removed from old technology. We will tell you about structures that are assembled from scrap materials.

In order to make a compressor from used parts and assemblies, you need to be well prepared: study the diagram, find it on the farm or buy some additional parts. Let's look at a few possible options for making your own air compressor.

Air compressor made from refrigerator and fire extinguisher parts

This unit operates almost silently. Let's look at the diagram of the future design and make a list necessary components and details.

1 — tube for filling oil; 2 - starting relay; 3 - compressor; 4 — copper tubes; 5 — hoses; 6 — diesel filter; 7 — gasoline filter; 8 — air inlet; 9 — pressure switch; 10 — crosspiece; 11 — safety valve; 12 - tee; 13 — receiver from a fire extinguisher; 14 — pressure reducer with pressure gauge; 15 — moisture-oil trap; 16 — pneumatic socket

Necessary parts, materials and tools

The main elements taken are: a motor-compressor from a refrigerator ( better production USSR) and a fire extinguisher cylinder, which will be used as a receiver. If they are not available, then you can look for a compressor from a non-working refrigerator at repair shops or at metal collection points. A fire extinguisher can be purchased on the secondary market or you can involve friends in the search, who at work may have written off fire extinguisher, fire extinguisher, fire extinguisher for 10 liters. The fire extinguisher cylinder must be emptied safely.

In addition you will need:

  • pressure gauge (as for a pump, water heater);
  • diesel filter;
  • filter for a gasoline engine;
  • pressure switch;
  • electric toggle switch;
  • pressure regulator (reducer) with pressure gauge;
  • reinforced hose;
  • water pipes, tees, adapters, fittings + clamps, hardware;
  • materials for creating a frame - metal or wood + furniture wheels;
  • safety valve (to relieve excess pressure);
  • self-closing air inlet (for connection, for example, to an airbrush).

Another viable receiver came from a tubeless car wheel. An extremely budget-friendly, although not very productive model.

Wheel receiver

We invite you to watch a video about this experience from the author of the design.

Almost all car enthusiasts who make something in their garage every day understand perfectly well that with the tools and components in their hands, you can always create something necessary.

In the same way, you can create an entire compressor for painting a car from an ordinary compressor for a Soviet-style refrigerator.

But how to do this technically, and in what order?

Therefore, due to frequently asked questions from novice self-taught craftsmen, in this article you will learn how to make such a compressor on your own and using hand-made materials.

Which compressor to choose (factory or homemade)

The main criterion that should be followed when choosing a painting station is uniform air distribution, without foreign particles.

If such impurities are found, the coating will have minor defects - graininess, shagreen, cavities. At the same time, these particles can cause drips and stains, so it is best to entrust the painting to a branded air compressor, but there is only one catch - such a device is too expensive, which many car enthusiasts cannot afford.

Save money and at the same time create functional model you can by creating functional equipment, which is described in many videos and articles.

You just have to spend your precious time studying the material, and then creating equipment that should be at least of high quality.

The model presented by the factory or home-made does not matter, because the principle of its operation is the same and it consists in creating excessive pressure. But the method of pumping air is completely different - it can be produced manually or mechanically.

In the second case, this is a significantly higher cost of funds, manual method economical, but labor-intensive, requiring constant monitoring.

Automatic inflation does not consume your energy, but the product requires periodic maintenance, which is only worth the process of changing the oil for the compressor.

This is the only way to achieve uniform air supply and distribution. Having studied the theory, you will realize how easy it is to make a compressor station that will work efficiently, and it will not take much time.

We collect compressor unit from improvised means -

If you decide to create equipment for painting your own car, then you should stock up on certain materials for this:

  1. The reverse function requires a car camera;
  2. For the supercharger function you will need a pump with a pressure gauge;
  3. Chambered nipple;
  4. Repair kit and awl.

When all the components are prepared, you can begin to create a compressor station. To check how sealed the chamber is, you will need to pump it up.

If the problem still exists, then it can be solved in two ways - by gluing or vulcanization raw rubber. A hole must be made in the resulting reverse to supply compressed air so that it comes out evenly.

A special nipple is placed in the hole for this purpose. The repair kit will serve for additional fastening of the fitting. To check the uniformity of air supply, simply unscrew the nipple. The original nipple allows you to get rid of excess pressure.

The pressure level is determined during operation, when paint is sprayed. If the enamel is applied evenly to the metal, then the installation is functioning. At the end of the procedure, it is worth determining the pressure indicators; to do this, just spray paint on the body of your car.

If the enamel lays down without tubercles, it means that the device is functioning efficiently. In addition, pressure readings can be monitored using special device- pressure gauge. But, its indicator after pressing the aerator should not be chaotic.

As you can see, you don’t need any special tools or knowledge to create such a compressor. At the same time, repairing and painting a car in this way is more effective than using a spray can.

Remember that neither dust nor water should get into the inner tube. Otherwise, you will have to re-paint the car.

If this installation is used correctly and with the use of all knowledge, then it will last a long time, and if you also automate the air pumping, then the process itself will go quickly.

Alternative to a professional device (refrigerator compressor)

Homemade compressor devices last much longer than the presented time, even in comparison with domestic and foreign-made installations.

This is quite natural, because by creating it with our own hands, we do everything for ourselves. top level. Therefore, people even thought about how to create a compressor from a refrigerator that would be on par with the installations of popular companies.

But to create it you should stock up on such components as a pressure gauge, relay, rubber adapters, oil and moisture separator, fuel filters, gearbox, motor, switch, hose, clamps, brass tubes, but also on little things - nuts, paint, wheels from furniture.

Creation of the mechanism itself

The whole procedure can be simplified by purchasing a compressor from an old Soviet-era refrigerator. This will not cost too much in terms of budget, and there is already a compressor start relay.

Foreign competitors are inferior to this model, because they are not able to develop such high pressure. But the Soviets cope with this task.

After removing the executive unit, it is advisable to clean the compressor from layers of rust. To avoid the oxidation process in the future, it is worth using a rust converter.

It turns out that the working motor housing is ready for the painting process.

Installation diagram

The preparatory process is complete, now you can change the oil. Since the refrigerator is old and it is unlikely that it has undergone constant maintenance, it is worth updating this point.

Since the system was always located far from external influence, maintenance work was justifiably not carried out there. To carry out this procedure, you do not need expensive oil; semi-synthetic oil is sufficient.

At the same time, it is no worse in terms of the presented characteristics of any compressor oil and has many additives that are used to advantage.

When examining the compressor, you will find 3 tubes, one of them is already sealed, but the rest are free. Open ones are used for air input and output. To understand how the air will circulate, it is worth connecting the power to the compressor.

Make a note of which hole sucks air in and which one lets it out. But the sealed tube needs to be opened, it will serve as a hole for changing the oil.

A needle file is necessary to cut the tube, but be sure to ensure that the chips do not get inside the compressor. To determine how much oil is already there, pour it into a container. With subsequent replacement, you will already know how much it will have to be poured.

Then we take the spitz and fill it with semi-synthetic, but this time expect that the volume should be twice as much as what was already drained. When the container is filled with oil, it is worth turning off the engine lubrication system; for this, a screw is used, which is pre-formed with fum tape and simply placed in the tube.

Do not be alarmed if drops of oil appear periodically from the air outlet tube. This situation is not too difficult to resolve; find an oil/water separator for homemade installation.

The preliminary work has been completed, only now you can begin the actual assembly of the installation. And they begin with strengthening the engine, it is best to choose a wooden base for this and in such a position that it is on the frame.

It is worth noting that this part is very sensitive to position, so follow the instructions on the top cover where the arrow is drawn. In this matter, accuracy is important, because the correctness of changing modes directly depends on the correct installation.

Where is the compressed air located?

A cylinder capable of withstanding high pressure is a fire extinguisher container. At the same time, they have high strength indicators and can be used as attachments.

If we take the OU-10 fire extinguisher, which holds 10 liters, as a basis, then we should count on a pressure of 15 MPa. We unscrew the locking and starting device, instead of which we install an adapter. If you find traces of rust, then these places should be treated with a rust converter.

It is not difficult to remove it externally, but cleaning it internally is more difficult. But the easiest way is to pour the converter itself inside the cylinder and shake it thoroughly so that all the walls are saturated with it.

When the cleaning is done, the plumbing cross is screwed in and we can assume that we have already prepared two working parts homemade design compressor.

Installation of parts

It was previously stated that for fixing the engine and the fire extinguisher body, it is suitable wooden board, it’s also even easier to store working parts.

In terms of mounting the engine, threaded rods and washers will serve, just think about making holes in advance. To fix the receiver vertically you will need plywood.

A recess is made in it for the cylinder, the second and third are fixed to the main board using self-tapping screws and hold the receiver. To give the structure maneuverability, you should screw the wheels from the furniture to the base.

To prevent dust from getting into the system, you should consider protecting it - using a coarse fuel filter for gasoline is an excellent option. With its help, the air intake function will be easily performed.

Since the pressure at the inlet of the compressor equipment is low, there is no need to increase it.

Having created an inlet filter for installation work with the compressor, do not forget to install an oil-water separator at the end to avoid the ingress of water droplets in the future. Since the outlet pressure is high, automotive clamps will be needed.

The oil-moisture separating filter is connected to the gearbox inlet and the pressure outlet of the supercharger. To check the balloon pressure, you should screw in the pressure gauge itself on the right side, where the outlet is located on the opposite side.

To control the pressure and 220V power supply, a relay is installed for adjustment. Many craftsmen recommend using PM5 (RDM5) as an actuator.

This device reacts to operation: if the pressure drops, the compressor turns on, but if it rises, the device is completely deflated.

To set the proper pressure, springs are used on the relay. The large spring is responsible for the minimum indicator, but the small one is responsible for the maximum, thereby setting the framework for the operation and shutdown of the homemade compressor installation.

In fact, PM5 are ordinary two-pin switches. One contact will be needed to connect to the zero of the 220 V network, and the second to connect to the supercharger.

You need a toggle switch to disconnect it from the network and save yourself from constantly running around in the direction of the outlet. All connected wires should be insulated for safety reasons. When this work has been completed, you can paint the installation and check it.

Pressure adjustment

Once the structure is assembled, it is quite natural to check it. We connect the last components - a spray gun or an air gun and connect the installation to the network.

We check the operation of the relay, how well it can cope with turning off the engine, and monitor the pressure using a pressure gauge. If everything works properly, we move on to checking the tightness.

The easiest way to do this is to use soap solution. When the tightness is checked, bleed the air from the chamber. The compressor starts when the pressure drops below the minimum limit. Only after checking all the systems and bringing them into working condition can you begin the procedure for painting the parts.

To paint, you only need to determine the pressure and do not overload yourself pre-treatment metal In order to paint with a uniform layer, it is necessary to experiment and determine atmospheric indicators.

It is important to use the supercharger as little as possible. Every car enthusiast will understand the components and begin manufacturing car compressor.

You can choose different options production, but the use of navigator launch, automatic pressure control is more complex design, but using it is pure pleasure.

In this case, you will not have to devote time to monitoring the receiver, which will open up more possibilities, and you can start painting a car, a fence or even a gate.

Routine maintenance is a mandatory procedure in order to prolong the operation of your homemade compressor.

To change the oil - drain or refill it, you can use a regular syringe. Filters are replaced only when necessary, when the rate of filling the tank chamber is reduced.

Compressor connecting components

When it is decided which compressor to choose and reverse, it is worth addressing the issue of combining them. At this point it is worth determining how the air will flow to the airbrush. The unit that is mounted to the receiver is responsible for air distribution.

The main thing is that these components are compatible with each other. The pressure switch is responsible for turning the compressor off and on. Although RDM-5 is used for water supply systems, it is ideal option for our case - for a relay.

The point is that the connection element fits on the outside inch thread. To find out what pressure is in the receiver, you need to use a pressure gauge and first think about the size that is suitable for the connection. We supply pressure to the air preparation unit and regulate it within 10 atmospheres; at this stage it is necessary to attach the oil separator filter.

The pressure gauge allows you to check the pressure, and the filter allows you to prevent oil particles from entering the receiver. Turns, tees and even fittings are the next components that will have to be prepared for installation. To understand the exact number, you need to think through the diagram; select an inch as the size.

After resolving the issue with adapters, it is important to think about the moment of installation of the structure; most often they use chipboards. The design of your station should be maneuverable, because you will have to move it around the workshop. To make your work easier, you should attach roller legs to it.

You won’t have to invent for a long time here, just visit a furniture store, where there are a lot of such furniture wheels. To save space in your workshop, you can build a two-story structure. But here it’s better to stock up on large bolts to secure the structure. To make preparing for at this stage, make a list of required components.

Assembling a semi-professional air blower

Assembly begins with removing the fire extinguisher screw and installing the adapter device. After removing the fire extinguisher valve, install the adapter there.

Four components are immediately installed on a durable hose - a reducer, a pressure switch and an adapter.

The next step will be to fix the wheels for installation on a sheet of chipboard. Since the structure is planned on two levels, it is necessary to make holes for the studs where the fire extinguisher will be placed.

The hydraulic accumulator is easier to assemble, because there are brackets on both sides. Bottom part fixed to the base, and for installation homemade equipment serves as the top one.

To reduce vibration when installing the compressor, silicone gaskets are used. The hose connects the air preparation outlet and inlet.

The next stage will be the connection work. Jumper, protective elements - all this needs to be thought through.

The entire connection chain is carried out through the relay and the switch, assuming that the entire connection follows the diagram: the phase wire goes to the switch, the next connection is the relay terminal. To ground the relay, a special wire is connected.

What is better: buy or make a compressor yourself?

There is a wide range of compressor equipment on the market. Piston components, vibration units, screw stations are all components that are used in other areas.

If you wish, you don’t have to waste your time creating the installation; it is presented at any point of sale of auto parts or on specialized websites.

Such a wide range makes choosing the right product much more difficult. But if you decide to purchase a station, you should be guided in this matter technical indicators, cost and reviews from those who have already evaluated it.

If you're chasing warranty periods, then you should pay attention to models of popular brands. Expensive products are worth purchasing if you are engaged in repair work at a professional level.

Products that do not have a name and status can let you down, so it is better to spend money once and not take risks in this matter. Many manufacturers budget options save on components.

Eventually you will encounter frequent breakdowns and replacement of parts, warranty repairs will take a lot of time. Therefore, many car enthusiasts are well aware that a do-it-yourself installation is sometimes more reliable than a factory one.

Such products with technical indicators win. For example, the components homemade device for painting a car it lasts much longer - compressors from refrigerators can last for decades, a fire extinguisher also has a colossal safety margin.

You can always improve the performance of your compressor yourself, everything is in your hands, but you can’t experiment like that with a factory device.

Your garage neighbors will probably get one when they see a well-made and well-thought-out device.

To paint a car, as a rule, a paint spraying device is used. This air compressor and a spray gun connected to it. If you are planning such equipment for your garage, you can make a compressor yourself or purchase a factory model.

It's quite obvious what to buy finished product much simpler. This entails less labor costs. However self-production- This is a significant financial saving. In addition, experts say that a homemade powerful electric compressor for a car with a relay and receiver can be much more efficient and durable than a serial product. Below we will tell you how to make a compressor for painting a car under 220V voltage yourself.


DIY compressor for painting cars

Obviously, for work we will need to collect certain materials. So, to assemble a homemade 220V air compressor for painting a car, we will need the following parts:

  • pressure gauge;
  • gearbox with oil and moisture protection filter;
  • relay for pressure regulation;
  • cleaning filter for gasoline engines;
  • crosspiece for water with thread inside;
  • threaded adapters;
  • clamps;
  • motor;
  • receiver;
  • engine oil;
  • switch for 220V voltage;

Materials for a homemade compressor
  • brass tubes;
  • oil-resistant hose;
  • wooden board;
  • syringe;
  • rust remover;
  • studs, nuts, washers;
  • sealant, fum tape;
  • enamel for metal;
  • saw or file
  • furniture wheels;
  • diesel engine filter.

Compiling this list is not difficult. After we have collected everything we need, we can get to work.

Assembling the engine

We start work from the very beginning important element- an engine that will create the required amount of air pressure. Here we can use a motor from an unnecessary refrigerator.

Its device includes a relay, which will be needed in order to maintain a given air pressure. Experts say that old Soviet models can achieve higher pressures than new imported engines.

We remove the motor from the refrigerator, carefully clean it and treat it with a product to avoid oxidation of the housing. After this it will be ready for painting.


Removing the refrigerator motor

Now you need to change the oil in the engine. Semi-synthetic is quite suitable for this - it is no worse than motor oil and has a lot of useful additives.

The motor has 3 tubes: 1 closed and 2 open, through which air circulates. In order to determine the input and output channels, turn on the motor and remember where the air flows in and where it comes out from. The closed tube is used just for changing the oil. Working with a file, we make a cut in such a way as to avoid sawdust getting into the tube. We break the end, remove the oil and pour in a new one, using a syringe for this purpose.

To seal the channel after changing the oil, select a screw of a suitable cross-section, wrap sealing tape around it and screw it tightly into the tube.

We mount the motor together with the relay on a thick board, which will act as a foundation. We choose the position in which it was in the refrigerator. This is necessary because the start relay is extremely sensitive to how it is placed. As a rule, there are corresponding markings on it - adhere to correct location in order for the relay to work stably and correctly.


We mount the motor on the prepared board

An air tank is a necessary element that is necessarily included in the compressor device. It must be designed for a certain amount of pressure in order for the device to work correctly. We can use old containers from ten-liter fire extinguishers as a receiver - they are durable and airtight.

Instead of a start valve, we screw a threaded adapter onto the receiver - for tightness we use a special FUM tape. If the future receiver has pockets of rust, they must be removed by grinding and processing by special means. In order to eliminate pockets of corrosion inside, pour in the product and shake well. Then we install the water cross using sealant. We can assume that homemade receiver ready.


We use an old fire extinguisher as a reservoir for compressed air

Assembling the device

We attach the fire extinguisher receiver together with the motor to a base made of a thick board. We use nuts, washers and studs as fixing means. The receiver must be positioned vertically. To attach it, we take three plywood sheets, in one of them we make a hole for the cylinder. We attach the remaining two sheets to a wooden base and plywood sheet, which holds a homemade receiver. We screw the wheels onto the bottom of the wooden base. furniture fittings for better maneuverability of the mechanism.

We put a rubber hose on the compressor inlet tube, to which we connect a cleaning filter for gasoline engines. Additional clamps will not be needed since the air inlet pressure is relatively low. To avoid the presence of moisture and oil particles in the air flow, we install an oil-moisture separating filter for diesel engines at the outlet. Here the pressure will already be quite high, so special clamps with screw fastenings should be used for additional fastening.

The diagram below shows how a homemade automobile compressor is assembled for painting a car.


Compressor diagram for car painting

Next, we connect a filter to remove oil and moisture to the input of the gearbox, which we will need to decouple the pressure in the engine and the cylinder. We make the connection using a plumbing cross on the left or right side. On the opposite side of the cross we install a pressure gauge to monitor the pressure level in the cylinder. We mount a relay for adjustment on the upper end of the cross. All connections are sealed using sealant.

With the help of a relay, we can supply the pressure we need to the receiver, while ensuring stepwise operation of the mechanism. The relay is adjusted by two springs, one of which sets the upper pressure limit, and the second - the lower one. We connect one contact to the supercharger, the second is connected to the zero phase of the network. We connect the second network input of the supercharger via a toggle switch to the mains phase. The toggle switch will make it possible to turn the device on and off from the power supply without removing the plug from the outlet. We carry out soldering and insulate all electrical contacts. After painting our homemade compressor for the car will be ready for testing.


Homemade compressor for painting a car

Testing and setting up a homemade compressor for painting cars

For testing, we connect a spray gun to the output. We put the toggle switch in the off position and turn on the plug electrical outlet. Set the relay regulator to the lowest value and turn on the toggle switch. For control we use a pressure gauge. We make sure that the relay regularly opens the network at the right moments. Using water with detergent We check how tight all hoses and connections are.

Next, we empty the container of compressed air - after the pressure drops to a certain level, the relay should turn on the motor. If everything works fine, you can try to use the device to paint a suitable object. We look at the quality and make sure that the device works stably and can be used to work on cars.

The car is a device for mechanical compression of gases, which generates an air pressure at the outlet that is greater than atmospheric pressure. By pumping air into the combustion chambers of the internal combustion engine, the compressor increases engine power by increasing the efficiency of fuel combustion. Fuel mixture When the supercharger is running, it contains more air, which makes it easier to ignite and releases more energy during combustion. In the course of research, it was found that the engine adds 46% of power and 30% of torque to the latter - this device is so important!

This device is used as power supply for pneumatic tools

An air compressor is installed not only in cars with internal combustion engines - this equipment is used to power pneumatic tools in industry and other industries. Main performance characteristics air compressor - operating pressure and capacity in liters of air per minute.

The following types of air compressors are distinguished:

  • Piston. Device with direct force transmission. During engine operation, the piston moves along the cylinder and compresses the air that enters the system. There are oil and oil-free piston blowers, the latter of which are widely used to power spray guns in the painting industry. Double piston air compressors are used for industrial purposes due to their high performance.
  • Rotary. Power is transmitted from the engine using a belt. Propellers with rotating blades compress the air inside the device and create. Rotary equipment is different high performance, good efficiency, low noise and vibration during operation. Oil for air type used sparingly and does not enter the compressed air. 380 V is especially widespread in production.

The blower can operate independently or using a receiver, which ensures an even supply of compressed air to the system. An air compressor without a receiver is less expensive and smaller, but is more susceptible to breakdown.

Can I do it myself?

Not everyone can make an air compressor for an engine on their own, and making modifications not provided by the car manufacturer can have an unpredictable effect on the operation. However, it can be assembled for a garage or auto repair shop - with the help of such a device you can quickly fill tires with air, create overpressure for spray guns and other pneumatic tools, as well as find other uses for the equipment.

A do-it-yourself compressor with a receiver will last significantly longer than purchased equipment, provided correct assembly from quality parts. This is explained by the fact that the master, who set out to make an air compressor with a receiver, makes it for himself, and for this reason he cares about quality. What parts are needed and how to assemble?

Assembling the compressor with your own hands

The main element of a homemade air supercharger is the propulsion system. Recommended for use in the refrigerator. It is notable for the presence of a start relay, which provides the ability to set and maintain a certain level of air pressure in the receiver. If you don’t have an old and unnecessary refrigerator at hand, you can find the unit in a landfill industrial waste or from friends. Preference should be given to a refrigerator made in the USSR, since for the production of Soviet refrigeration equipment powerful and reliable compressors were used.

The refrigeration blower has three tubes, one of which is sealed at one end. The rest are air ducts - one lets air in, the other exhausts. When further assembling the unit, it is important to understand in which direction the air flows circulate. To determine, you need to turn on the compressor for a short time and observe in which direction the circulation occurs. It is recommended to mark “input” and “exit” different colors so as not to be confused during assembly. An air check valve for the compressor will help prevent arbitrary changes in air direction.

In addition to the heart of the old refrigerator, to assemble a car compressor you will need:

  • Air receiver ( good option is a fire extinguisher).
  • Pressure gauge.
  • Coarse fuel filter.
  • Moisture separating filter.
  • Air pressure control relay.
  • Set of adapters, clamps, hoses.
  • Toggle switch for 220 Volt voltage.

At various stages of assembly you will need: a base for installing the finished unit, wheels (can be taken from old furniture), paint, engine oil and anti-corrosion agent.

Receiver assembly

The compressor receiver is a durable container that contains air under pressure. The role played by the car air receiver is to eliminate pulsations during air supply by the compressor, which is carried out by equalizing the pressure in the system. The secondary role of the receiver is the storage of inert gases or condensate.

The receiver capacity is absolutely sealed, and the required volume depends on the cyclicity of air consumption by the consumer and the performance of the air compressor. Using a receiver extends the life, often used in various fields, including painting work, industrial production and other industries.

An automobile air receiver can be manufactured in three ways:

  1. Carbon dioxide fire extinguisher. Well suited for long-term storage of gases under pressure up to 10 atmospheres, it has durable steel walls and is safe to use. A fire extinguisher with a volume of 5-10 liters is sufficient for the receiver. To convert the fire extinguisher into a compressor receiver, you need to remove the shut-off and starting device and put the prepared hose adapter on the hole. The container must be emptied and washed thoroughly. Next, the plumbing cross is installed and sealed. After this, you can use the manufactured receiver for work.
  2. Hydraulic accumulator. More specialized device with a sufficient range of capacities. Disadvantage: low nominal pressure. Plus - suitable outlet thread. To use it as a receiver, you need to remove the internal membrane for storing carbon dioxide, and then connect the hose as in the example with a fire extinguisher.
  3. Oxygen cylinder. Exceptional strength and air pressure of tens of atmospheres, but small capacity, inconvenient transportation and heaviness. To use, just connect the hose - the homemade receiver is ready for use!

A do-it-yourself air receiver can be made from any cylinder for storing compressed gases, but before use you need to make sure that the selected container can withstand the operating pressure of the future compressor.

Final assembly of the compressor unit

The compressor and receiver should be installed on one common base for ease of storage and transportation of homemade equipment. The compressor from the refrigerator, found earlier, must be cleaned of rust (if any). Next, the oil in the air compressor is changed, since the old one has probably become unusable. You can’t pour any oil into an air compressor; if you don’t have a special compressor lubricant, you can use motor oil, synthetic oil, or semi-synthetic oil.


Install the compressor and receiver on one common base for easy storage and transportation

The compressor is assembled in five successive steps, as follows:

  1. Place the refrigerator blower on the prepared base and secure with threaded rods. The receiver is installed in a vertical position and secured by folded sheets of plywood in the amount of three pieces with a hole for the cylinder. Wheels are screwed to the bottom of the base for easy transportation.
  2. Install the compressor and check valve for the air compressor into the air intake hole. For convenience, you can use a rubber hose.
  3. At the outlet pipe of the supercharger, install a water separator through a hose - it can be taken from a diesel engine. To prevent the hose from breaking under pressure, it is necessary to strengthen the connection with automotive clamps. A moisture separator must also be installed at the inlet of the gearbox - a device for decoupling the pressure in the receiver and the compressor. The outlet pressure pipe is connected to one of the ends of the water cross.
  4. Set to top part a relay crosspiece for adjusting pressure, and a pressure gauge at the free end for control. All joints must be firmly reinforced with fum tape and tightened with clamps to prevent failure.
  5. Using a 220 Volt toggle switch, connect the mains phase to the compressor output. Insulate the contacts with electrical tape or dielectric casing.

After connecting the equipment to the network, you can consider that the oil-fired air compressor is assembled. You can plug the device into the network and check its functionality.

What problems can await during assembly?

Auto air compressors are simple devices in terms of design and operation, but during self-assembly You may encounter the following problems:

  1. Oil supply to the wrong hole. Due to the presence of several tubes in the supercharger, it is possible to get confused and pour oil into the wrong hole. To prevent the problem, oil must be poured into either of the two inlet tubes - the outlet tube is excluded.
  2. Small diameter of the receiver inlet. If using a standard cylinder thread is not possible, attach the element using flux. The final design can withstand pressure of 5-6 atmospheres.
  3. Incorrect connection of blower tubes. In order for circulation in the system to occur smoothly and in one direction, you need to install a check valve on the compressor yourself. It will prevent possible problems and will ensure stable operation of the supercharger.

Try to assemble the oil supercharger with your own hands in full accordance with the instructions, recommendations and safety rules. In this case, there will be no problems with the operation of the equipment.

Setting the required pressure

A motorcycle air compressor or car supercharger must be properly prepared for first use. To get started, you need to set the pressure mode using a relay. The adjustment is carried out using two springs - the large one sets the minimum pressure, the small one sets the maximum. The first contact of the relay is connected to zero, the second is attached to the supercharger.

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When using the equipment for the first time, monitor the pressure gauge readings - the relay should turn the blower on and off when the lower and upper limits are reached set pressure respectively. After final adjustments, you can paint the homemade supercharger and continue operation.