What selection of home-use compressors does the industry have to offer today? Frankly, the assortment is small, and besides, the proposed samples have a lot of disadvantages, ranging from size and weight and ending with the noise level.

Ready-made homemade compressor

It turns out that a homemade compressor will be the best solution to the problem with the equipment of a home workshop.

Engine selection

In my opinion, the best choice for a home compressor engine is a unit from a Soviet-era household refrigerator. Personally, I made myself two home-made compressors with such units, one block was vertical (I don't know the brand), and the second from the Yuryuzan refrigerator (horizontally located).

One compressor was designed to power the airbrush, while the other worked with a staple gun. There were no problems with either one or the other units. Many may argue that they have little productivity, in my opinion, for the house they do not need it anymore. But during operation, such a device is practically inaudible.

Compressor equipment

In addition to the engine and the pumping unit itself, the compressor needs other component parts for normal operation. To make a compressor with our own hands, we need:

• The base for the whole structure;
• Air receiver;
• Filters and moisture separator;
• Connecting hoses or tubes;
• Reducer and pressure gauge;
• Engine starting equipment;

Homemade compressor design

The base, it is the frame, can have any design and be made of any available material.

For example, you can use a sheet of thick plywood or chipboard of the required size as a base, and mark all the compressor units so that all its parts are easily accessible.

In principle, the construction of the base and its materials are limited only by the imagination of the developer, for example, I had one of the compressors without a frame at all (I will describe below how to do it).

As a receiver, inventive people most often use old receivers from the KamAZ brake system, a very convenient thing, there are all the necessary threads for the fittings and a valve for draining condensate. Alternatively, you can use an old foam or carbon dioxide fire extinguisher (preferably several in series).

You will have to work a little with such a receiver - weld pipes and bushings to connect the rest of the system.
It is best to use air filters and a moisture separator of industrial production, at a price of course a little expensive (a good set now costs from 3000), but the quality is worth the money.

Making an air compressor with your own hands without connecting hoses or tubes will not work. From personal experience, I can say that oxygen hoses (from welding) show very good results, there is only one drawback - a decent mass, and, therefore, it is inconvenient to work with an airbrush, it is better to use a standard spiral hose for it.

With the starting equipment, everything is clear, a standard engine starting relay is used, only a switch is added. It is more convenient to use the foot key, then the hands remain free during operation.

Compressor work

I'll tell you how to make a compressor using my example. It started with trying to use a small commercially available compressor to inflate the wheels for the airbrush. I was dissatisfied with his performance and got down to work.

I took the old refrigerator from my mother-in-law, took out the unit with the wiring from it, threw out the rest. The motor was sanded and re-painted with paint from a spray can, then went to the construction market. There I picked up a piece of oxygen hose, purchased suitable clamps and a switch.

After that, he went to his friends in the unit and became the owner of a new KAMAZ receiver. He brought all this stuff home and began to create a simple structure.

In order not to make a frame, I decided to use the receiver as the basis for the entire compressor. To do this, I first cut it out of whatman paper and fitted it to the place of attachment under the engine and supports for the receiver. After everything was ready, I cut out the parts from steel 1.5 mm thick, bent them and welded them to the receiver. Thus, we got an analogue of a factory compressor.

Then everything is simple - I installed a pumping unit on the pillows and connected all the electrics. Then he took up pneumatics, attached a fuel filter from Zhiguli to the compressor inlet through a piece of hose (later replaced it with a frame welded from wire, covered with thin foam rubber).

I screwed an adapter for the supply hose into the threaded bushing of the receiver and connected it to the pump outlet pipe, a moisture separator unit with a reducer and a pressure gauge stood in the opposite bushing, to which a gas cock with a connector for connecting the airbrush hose was screwed. I tried it - everything works great, no complaints.

A little advice to those who are going to make a compressor from the refrigerator with their own hands - turn on a check valve between the compressor and the receiver, the load on the motor will significantly decrease.

Many craftsmen know that you can make a compressor from a refrigerator with your own hands! Can . But, few people know exactly how to do it! In this article, we will try to provide a comprehensive answer on how to make a compressor with your own hands, so that everyone can create this equipment at home.

After all, if you look at it, then in essence the air compressor is needed in every garage. With the help of a compressor, you can pump up the wheels without visiting a service station or tire fitting, supply air to a working pneumatic tool, or simply blow off dust from the treated surface. So, consider the installation option for painting.

Factory or homemade compressor

There is a list of specific requirements for a painting station. The main condition is the need for a uniform flow of air, without any impurities. The standard defects that are due to the presence of foreign particles include grit, shagreen or cavities in the enamel coating. In the case of an uneven flow of paint, drips or a matte heel may form.

Of course, if you pay attention to branded air compressors, then such installations are equipped with all the necessary functions for high-quality airbrush operation. The only drawback of such units is their cost.

To save money and at the same time create a functional model that will not be inferior to professional equipment, you need to familiarize yourself with the theoretical information base or watch a video on the topic "a compressor for painting a car with your own hands."

The principle of operation of any model, regardless of whether it is home-made or factory-made, is the same. Excessive pressure builds up in the reservoir. The method of air injection is different (manual, mechanical). In the case of manual feeding, there are significant savings in money, but a lot of energy is consumed. After all, the process requires constant monitoring.

Automatic pumping avoids these disadvantages, except that the oil for the air compressor requires periodic replacement. Thus, there is a uniform supply of air to the switchgear. In theory, this looks extremely simple, so it is possible to create a workable compressor station in a short time.

Do it yourself

So, we choose the manufacture of a painting unit from a conventional car camera. List of required material:

1. Car camera that acts as a receiver;
2. A pump with a pressure gauge acting as a supercharger;
3. Chamber nipple;
4. Repair kit;
5. The usual awl.

Now you can start making the compressor station. The chamber must be checked for leaks, for this it must be pumped up. If there are air leaks, it is necessary to solve this problem, either by gluing or by vulcanizing with wet rubber.

After that, in the manufactured receiver using an awl, you need to make a hole. A nipple will be placed here, through which a uniform jet of compressed air will come out.

An additional fitting is attached by gluing. A repair kit will help in solving this problem. Then the fitting is connected to the spray gun. To check how the air flow comes out, you need to unscrew the nipple.

In this case, the native nipple remains, it will serve as a valve and hold excess pressure. Finally, you need to determine the level of pressure by spraying paint on a metal surface. If the enamel lays down evenly, then the installation is working well.

In addition, the pressure value can be checked with a pressure gauge. But, its level even after pressing the aerator key should not be abrupt.

It is not difficult to design a compressor, but after its manufacture, anyone can make sure that repairing or painting a car will become much more effective than it was with a spray can.

Among the last parting words should be attributed to the fact that it is necessary in every possible way to avoid getting into the car camera of water or dust. To prevent these particles from entering the spray gun later, otherwise you will have to paint again.

As a result of correct operation, the created installation will work for a long time, but it is still better to automate the pumping of air.

Semi-professional air blower

Experts have repeatedly made reviews that homemade compressor units have a longer service life. Moreover, the comparison was made with domestic and foreign models.

This, of course, because the installation is made with your own hands. Therefore, we will consider the option of how to make a compressor from a refrigerator, which will not be inferior even to the products of famous companies. So, for its manufacture, the following list of materials is required:

• Compressor receiver;
• Pressure gauge;
• Relay for monitoring the pressure in the compressor;
• Threaded adapters;
• Fuel filter (gasoline);
• Reducer with oil-moisture separating filter;
• Water supply cross with ¾ inch thread;
• Compressor unit motor;
• Clamps are automobile;
• Motor oil (10W40);
• Switch (220 V);
• Oil resistant hose;
• Brass tubes;
• Regular syringe;
• Thick board;
• Compressor rust converter;
• Power system filter (diesel);
• Metal paint;
• Nuts, washers, studs;
• Wheels for furniture;
• Sealant, tape fum;
• File.

Working mechanism

To simplify the procedure, a compressor from an old Soviet-style refrigeration unit can serve as the engine. There is one positive point here, namely the presence of a compressor start relay.

Soviet models outperform their foreign competitors by generating higher pressures. After removing the executive unit, it is necessary to put it in order, freeing it from the build-up of rust.

A rust converter will assist in the treatment of the compressor to avoid further oxidation. Thus, the body of the working motor will be prepared for subsequent painting.

Installation diagram

After completing the introductory part, you can start changing the oil. After all, if you do not bend your heart, then it is not enough which refrigerator managed to undergo regular maintenance or oil changes. However, such a course of events is also quite justified, because in this case the system is completely isolated from atmospheric influences.

So, semi-synthetic oil is fine for this procedure. Moreover, it is no worse than compressor oil, and has a sufficient amount of useful additives.

Go ahead and find 3 tubes on the compressor, 2 of which are open, one is sealed. In our case, open tubes will be used for air circulation (inlet and outlet). To understand how the air moves, you need to energize the compressor for a short time. Then remember or write down which duct draws in air, and which, on the contrary, releases it.

The purpose of the sealed tube is for routine oil changes. Therefore, the closed end should be removed. The file will help us with this, which needs to be cut around the tube. In doing so, care should be taken to prevent swarf from entering the inside of the compressor.

After that, it is necessary to break off the end of the tube and drain the oil into any container in order to establish its volume for subsequent replacement. Then we take the syringe and fill in the semisynthetics, but in a larger volume than was drained.

When the oil is filled, the engine lubrication system must be shut off. This can be done by selecting a screw, after which this screw is wrapped with fum tape and twisted into a tube. It's time to remind you that oil droplets will sometimes seep from the blower outlet air tube.

Therefore, the compressor oil separator comes to the rescue.

When the indicated work is completed, it's time to start assembling the installation. You need to start by strengthening the engine with a starting relay on a wooden base, so that it is in the same position as it was on the frame.

This is necessary due to the sensitivity of the compressor relay to the spatial position. To be more precise, an arrow should be drawn on the top cover. It is important to observe accuracy here, because the correct switching of modes will depend on the installation of the compressor.

Air container

An excellent solution to the problem would be fire extinguisher cylinders. It depends on their ability to withstand high pressure, in addition, the cylinders have a significant margin of safety, perfectly suited as attachments.

So, let's take the OU-10 fire extinguisher as a basis. Its working volume is 10 liters. According to the technical characteristics, the cylinder can withstand a pressure of 15 MPa. Now you need to unscrew the locking and starting device from our workpiece, and then screw in the adapter.

In this case, if traces of corrosion are detected, they must be removed with a rust converter. Of course, external removal is not difficult, but internally it will require patience. Therefore, we pour the transducer inside the container, and shake the contents.

After cleaning, you can screw in the plumbing spider. Thus, two working parts of our compressor unit were prepared.

Assembly of parts

To make it easier to store and move work parts, it is best to place them on the same base. As mentioned earlier, a wooden board is needed, which will serve as the basis for reliable fastening of the engine, as well as the body of the fire extinguisher.

Therefore, we will use threaded rods as an engine mount, which must be threaded into the pre-drilled holes. Of course, in addition to everything, you will need nuts (washers).

Then you need to place the receiver in an upright position, 3 sheets of plywood will come in handy here. In this case, in one sheet you need to make a hole for the balloon. The rest of the sheets are attached with self-tapping screws to the main board and glued to the sheet that holds the receiver.

But, on the eve, you still need to hollow out a recess in the wooden base under the bottom of the receiver. And finally, in order for the structure to be maneuverable, you need to screw the furniture wheels to its base.

After all that has been done, you need to protect the system from possible dust ingress. A gasoline coarse fuel filter will come to the rescue. It will act as an air intake.

The rubber hose and blower inlet tube will be used here. It should be noted that there is low pressure at the inlet of the compressor station, which means that there is no need to strengthen the contact with the help of automobile clamps.

Thus, we have created an inlet filter for the compressor unit. At the outlet of the station, an oil-moisture separator must be installed, which will block the ingress of water particles. The power supply filter will be used here. Due to the increased pressure at the outlet of the compressor station, automobile clamps will be used from this place.

So, the turn came to the oil-moisture separating filter. In this case, it must be connected to the inlet of the reducer, which is needed to decouple the reservoir and the outlet of the blower by pressure. This means that we screw the outlet into the previously prepared crosspiece on the left side, and on the right we screw in a pressure gauge, thanks to which we will be able to control the balloon pressure. On top of the cross, you need to screw in the control relay.

The presence of the control relay will make it possible to set the range of the receiver pressure height, as well as to interrupt the supply circuit in the supercharger in time. When it comes to the actuator, it is recommended to use PM5 (RDM5).

With the help of these devices, the compressor will turn on if the air pressure in the tank falls below the set mark and turn off if the set parameters are exceeded.

The required pressure is set at the relay using two springs. The function of the large spring is to create minimum pressure, while the small spring is responsible for adjusting the upper limit, effectively setting the shutdown limit for the compressor unit.

РМ5 (РДМ5) were originally produced for the purpose of use in the water supply network, in fact, these are ordinary two-contact switches. In our case, one contact is used to connect the 220 V network with zero, while the second contact goes to connect to the supercharger.

We carry out the network phase through a toggle switch to connect to the second input of the compressor station. If there is a toggle switch in the electrical circuit, we will be able to quickly disconnect the system from the network, which will save you from running to the outlet.

Naturally, all connections must be soldered and carefully insulated. After that, you can paint the finished installation and carry out test tests.

Adjusting the pressure

So, after assembling the structure, it is quite natural to check it. To do this, you need to connect a spray gun, or, as an option, a pneumatic gun. Then, without turning on the toggle switch, we connect the plug to the network.

We set the control relay at the minimum pressure, and we supply power to the blower. Do not forget about the pressure gauge, which allows you to control the pressure in the tank. After we were able to make sure that the relay turns off the engine, we need to check the tightness of the connections.

A classic soap solution can help here. If the system passes the tightness test, residual air can be vented from the reservoir chamber. It should be noted that in the event of a pressure drop below the set limits, the relay must start the compressor. In case of serviceability of all systems, it is possible to start painting any part.

At the same time, you should not load yourself with preliminary metal processing. It is important for us to set the pressure required for painting the product.

Such experimentation will give us the opportunity to determine the atmospheric value so that the coloring of any product occurs in an even layer. In addition, it is very important that this entire process takes place with a minimum amount of blower activation.

Thus, you can summarize the results. Car compressor manufacturing, lifting occupation for every car enthusiast.

Of course, it is difficult to argue with the fact that the second version is more complicated and will take longer to manufacture, but thanks to the automatic pressure control system, as well as the presence of a supercharger start-up, working with such equipment will become one continuous pleasure.

Plus, you no longer need to control the receiver's camera. Such a station will allow painting a car, a fence in a village or a garage door.

For the continuous operation of the created compressor, it will be necessary to carry out periodic routine maintenance. . You can use a syringe to drain the oil. In this case, we unscrew the filler hole, put a hose on the tube and pump out the mining. Also, fresh oil can be pumped in with a syringe. Filters are changed as needed, including in the event of a decrease in the speed of filling the tank chamber.

Make or buy

Today the market is filled with a variety of compressor equipment. There are piston installations, vibration units, screw stations and other devices that are produced for different purposes. Ready-made installations can be purchased at auto parts stores or on specialized sites.

A large assortment can make it difficult to choose the right product. But be that as it may, if you decide to buy a ready-made station, focus on studying the technical parameters, cost and reviews.

To obtain a quality guarantee, it is better to purchase equipment of well-known brands, however, an expensive product will justify itself in the case of a professional car repair business. Little-known products can let you down, so it's best not to risk it.

Often, low-quality materials are installed in budget options. There are frequent cases of failure of installations due to instant breakdowns of individual parts, while warranty repairs will take a lot of time.

As already mentioned, hand-made assembly is often more reliable than factory assembly. A separate plus is the technical parameters. For example, according to statistics, compressors from refrigerators serve for decades. Regarding the fire extinguisher, we can say that this product has a tenfold safety margin.

Therefore, it is better not to buy what you are unsure of. In addition, having studied the current material, you know what to make a compressor with your own hands, you can even in a domestic environment. A well-made device will be the envy of your garage neighbors.

Another story

Let's start by formalizing the technical requirements for the fruit of hand-written engineering. Let's say it all started with the purchase of a new double-action airbrush. Therefore, the issue of manufacturing a compressor unit with a receiver has become extremely necessary.

A double-action airbrush has the ability to control the flow of air as well as to close it and open the air duct. In Europe, this device is used with a separate compressed air cylinder. So, a compressor with a reservoir serves as a container to collect air, and an airbrush uses this air.

Of course, the main component is the compressor. Here an old refrigerator comes to the rescue, from which you can remove an excellent compressor. To do this, you can go through the sites that sell refrigeration equipment.

We decide on the price and order delivery, but before that we also need to write down the name of the manufacturer's company and visit the website. So, in our case, the manufacturer is Danfoss. On the company's website, we download the technical description of the compressor.

Next, consider such an option as a receiver for a compressor with your own hands. Here, of course, you need a tank that was made to contain gases or can withstand high pressure. Optimally, if such a container meets the requirements of GOST. Therefore, we immediately exclude containers, such as a plastic canister or bottle. Consider the options for tanks:

1. Carbon dioxide fire extinguisher. Withstands pressure - 10 atmospheres. Capacity - 3 l / 5 l / 10 l. Cons - metric thread at the entrance.
2. Hydroaccumulator. Good container volume, with low operating pressure. Convenient thread at the entrance. Cons - needs fine-tuning, since, from the inside, it is divided into a membrane that contains carbon dioxide. The membrane must be removed.
3. Oxygen balloon. Withstands high pressure. Cons - only extremely heavy models are available.
4. Propane bottle. In general, it is similar to a fire extinguisher, but the manufacturer does not recommend their use for compressed air.

Connecting links

After we have decided on the compressor and have chosen a suitable product for the receiver, the next step is to combine them. In addition, you need to solve the problem of air flow to the airbrush.

You can start with a unit that is attached directly to the receiver and will provide air distribution. It should be remembered that the key factor is its compatibility with the receiver connector. Next, we pay attention to the pressure switch, which will ensure that the compressor is turned off and on.

The best option for a relay would be RDM-5, which is used for plumbing systems. This model is widely available commercially, and the good thing is that its connector is designed for an external inch thread.

Then we determine the pressure indication in the receiver. For this we need a 10 atmospheres pressure gauge, it also has a suitable connection size. And we also need a static device.

Next, we are dealing with the air preparation unit. The hose that leads to the airbrush must be pressurized. Accordingly, there is a need for a reducer with a pressure control limit of up to 10 atmospheres, and it is desirable that a pressure gauge and an oil separator filter be attached to it.

With the help of a pressure gauge, we will control the pressure, and the filter will ensure that particles of compressor oil do not enter from the receiver. But, it should not be confused with a lubricator filter, which performs a diametrically opposite function.

Let's continue collecting materials, and it's time to prepare fittings, bends, tees. We take an inch as our base size. To determine the quantity, you need a diagram of the air distribution and preparation unit.

We also need external and internal adapters. If you wish, you can make a schematic diagram of how to make a compressor. The next stage is the placement of the finished structure. As an option, chipboard slabs may be suitable.

Of course, in order not to use foul language while moving the station around the workshop, it is advisable to immediately resolve the issue with the roller legs. Any furniture store will gladly sell them to you. To save space, you can make a two-story structure. However, long bolts may be needed. So, we summarize the planning stage with a list of components:

• Compressor;
• Receiver;
• Pressure switch;
• Pressure gauge;
• Filter reducer;
• Emergency valve;
• Fittings, adapters;
• Plumbing gaskets, fum tape, sealant;
• Cables, switch, plug;
• Flexible oil resistant hose;
• Chipboard sheet
• Roller feet, bolts, nuts, washers and tools.

We start assembling

Dismantling the extinguisher assembly and welding on the adapter fitting is ideal. An alternative way is to unscrew part of the valve, leaving the internal mechanics and removing the control element, then screw an adapter with an inch female thread to one outlet, and an adapter from 1 to 38 to the other.

Using an adjustable wrench, we twist the adapters according to the diagram. Next, we mount a reducer, a pressure gauge, a pressure switch and an adapter for a flexible hose.

The next step is to screw the wheels to the chipboard sheet. Since the structure will be two-tier, you need to drill holes for the studs. After that, we put a fire extinguisher in its place.

In the case of using a hydraulic accumulator, the assembly diagram is even simpler, since it has brackets at the top and bottom. Therefore, the lower mounts are screwed to the base, and the upper ones are used to install the compressor.

In our case, the second floor needs to be built. For this, markings are made, holes are drilled, and the upper and lower floors are bolted together. After that, a compressor is installed on the second floor. Silicone pads are suitable to reduce vibration.

When installing the compressor, we put washers. We fasten the air distribution module to the tank. Using a hose and clamps, we tightly connect the compressor outlet and the inlet of the air preparation unit.

Now it's time to work with the wiring diagram. Jumper setting would be appropriate. Also, protective elements will not interfere. The connection line must go through the relay and the switch. The connection itself will proceed as follows.

From the plug, the phase wire goes to the switch. Then it is connected to the desired relay terminal. In the absence of a grounding wire, we start a neutral wire to the grounding terminal of the relay.

Already from the relay, the phase wire and the neutral wire go to the starting device of the compressor station drive and are connected according to the diagram to the required terminals. Next, on the terminal block of the starting device, we install a jumper by soldering.

It will connect the windings to the phase. Cables can be wrapped in plastic ties. We check and run the installation. Then we paint it.

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A portable air compressor, low noise, consuming relatively little electricity, is probably the dream of every owner of a private house, summer house, garage, small business. Well, it is quite permissible to make a mobile compressed air installation on your own, for example, by taking part of the equipment of an old household refrigerator. Each refrigeration unit has a built-in compressor. If you remove this part, add equipment, you get an air compressor from the refrigerator compressor,.

Before deciding on the implementation of an idea, it is advisable to decide exactly: is this idea really worth taking on? Let's consider several important aspects of the topic in order to help future designers make the right decision:

1. not intended for use with air.
2. The compressor performance of domestic refrigerators is low.
3. A special oil is required to lubricate the mechanism of refrigeration compressors.

The corresponding conclusions follow from this. When working with an air environment, the device will not be able to function for a long time without good cooling.

When a refrigeration compressor operates with freon, the case is cooled due to other temperature parameters of the refrigerant.

Compression of the air mixture by a refrigeration compressor occurs in completely different temperature conditions, which will lead to an increase in the operating temperature by an order of magnitude. Ultimately, without good cooling, the compressor will simply burn out.

Burned-out compressor of the refrigerator as a result of violation of technological modes of operation. The same fate awaits the device, which is supposed to be used in the project, if you do not apply special protective equipment.

The low performance of domestic refrigeration units is another factor limiting the use of such equipment for producing compressed air.

For example, to pump a 5-liter receiver to a pressure of 5-7 atm., It will take at least 15-20 minutes of operation of the refrigeration unit.

Meanwhile, this volume of air is not even enough to pump up a car wheel in one sitting or paint one wall of a small garage with a spray gun.

Poor performance of the refrigerator system is common in this kind of technology. But for an air compression system, especially with a high flow rate, a high-performance system is required

Finally, another important factor is the compressor oil. To lubricate the mechanism of refrigeration compressors, a special oil for freon is used, the properties of which change dramatically in contact with air.

If you do not change the oil for another type of lubricant that is structurally loyal to air, after a certain time the compressor mechanism will simply “cover” due to the rapid wear of the parts.

DIY design

So, if, despite all the noted nuances, a decision is made to assemble from the refrigerator, you can proceed directly to the action.

Approximately such a design should be obtained as a result of the implementation of the conceived idea. In appearance, there are no complaints. The device looks more than flawless and quite impressive

The first step is to collect all the necessary details of the design equipment:

1. Air receiver.
2. Oil separator.
3. Differential pressure switch.
4. Copper tube.
5. Input air filter.
6. Shut-off control and control valves.

A compressed air cylinder from a KAMAZ vehicle is optimally suited for the air receiver. The five-liter container has dimensions that are acceptable for a domestic environment and meets the requirements for pressure vessels.

A home compressor made from a refrigerator is best equipped with one of the cylinders that are used on KAMAZ truck tractors. These vessels comply with Rostechnadzor standards
A variant of the oil separator design, which is recommended for use in the installation. For reliable operation of the system, high-quality separation of oil from air is required.

Differential pressure switches (for example, from the PT series) are used from those used in industrial refrigeration plants.

A sufficient amount of copper tube is available in the construction of the condenser of a household refrigerator. It fits in diameter to the outlet of the refrigerator compressor.

An air filter at the compressor inlet can be easily made from any suitable plastic container by placing a regular foam sponge inside. Shut-off control and control valves - valves, non-return valve, pressure gauges - can be bought in the store.

Air unit assembly

An air receiver (for example, an air cylinder from a KAMAZ vehicle) is mounted on a chassis made of a metal corner. Additionally, it is recommended to install a pair of wheels for ease of movement on the chassis, a support "leg" and a handle.

Above the upper area of ​​the cylinder, a platform for installing a refrigerator compressor and a bracket for mounting a differential pressure switch are fixed. An oil separator is attached to the side of the receiver through a clamp and an outlet fitting.

DIY oil separator. For fastening, one clamp with a bracket is used on the left side of the separator, and the right side is attached to the fitting of the receiver inlet pipe

An air filter must be installed on the inlet of the refrigerator compressor. The presence of an air filter is required to reduce the entry of foreign particles in the air into the system.

The air filter can be easily made from any plastic container by attaching it through an angle threaded transition to the inlet.

Air filter at the unit inlet. It is easy to make one with your own hands from a suitable plastic container. Foam sponge inside the filter housing

The outlet pipe of the compressor is connected through the compensation copper tube-heat exchanger with the inlet pipe of the separator (oil separator). The outlet of the separator is connected to the receiver through an angle adapter.

A tee and (compressed air outlet) are installed at the outlet of the receiver. Through the taps of the tee, the receiver outlet is additionally communicated with copper pipes with a differential relay and a pressure gauge. A safety valve is also installed there.

Electrical part and principle of operation

The electrical circuit diagram actually remains intact, with the exception of minor changes. That is, the compressor from the refrigerator was powered from the alternating current network through the starting relay, so this option is left unchanged.

Another question is that you can slightly upgrade the circuit. For example, it can be supplemented with a switch installed on the body of the assembled unit. Still, this option is more convenient than periodically plugging-unplugging the plug from the socket every time the device is used in business.

This design does not include a separate power switch. The compressor is connected to the mains with a two-wire cord with a plug through the contact group of the pressure switch

Also, the compressor voltage supply circuit must be configured taking into account the inclusion of the contact group of the differential pressure switch.

Due to this configuration, the device will turn off immediately after reaching the set air pressure limit. That's all, actually. The air compressor from the refrigerator can be considered done.

Some project notes

A fire extinguisher under the receiver for a home compressed air unit must be selected taking into account a threefold pressure reserve. Powder OT bottle is not the best choice

Often, fire extinguisher cylinders are used as a receiver for self-made projects. Meanwhile, the capacity of powder fire extinguishers has a low limit of the maximum allowable operating pressure (8-12 atm.).

In addition, such vessels are subject to mandatory certification after a certain period of time in the relevant authorities. If you still take a fire extinguisher vessel under the receiver, then vessels from under carbon dioxide systems can be considered an acceptable option.

Finally, the most important point. Such structures, in fact, should be registered with the Rostechnadzor authorities, since the assembly includes a vessel operating under a pressure of more than 0.07 MPa (the operating pressure of the installation is 10 atm.).

The owners of unregistered self-made air compressors may well be brought to justice (administrative and even criminal), if something extraordinary happens during the operation of equipment with a threat to human life and health.

So it is worth thinking a thousand times before trying to assemble an air compressor from a refrigerator compressor with your own hands.

Practice of assembling a compressed air installation

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The compressor can be used in a wide variety of applications - for tire inflation, airbrushing, painting of spare parts etc. Having the necessary tools and certain technical knowledge, it is quite possible to independently manufacture this unit on the basis of a conventional refrigerator. A homemade compressor gives about 7 atmospheres, which is quite enough for an ordinary garage workshop, so many are increasingly thinking about how to make such a compressor? Do-it-yourself compressor from the refrigerator it will turn out to be quite quiet and, most importantly, cheap at its cost.

On average, the manufacture of this unit will take about one thousand rubles for all components.

Before trying to make ours out of an old refrigerator, you need to compare these two options, i.e. sold in specialty stores and our homemade version. Total can be distinguished a few main differences between them:

• In the design of a factory compressor, there is an electric motor that transmits torque to the working chamber through a belt drive. As for the homemade compressor, it consists of a housing and the engine itself, without belts.
• In the factory version, automatic pressure relief systems, inlet and outlet filters, pressure indicators, etc. are already installed. In the compressor from the refrigerator, you will have to install the adjustment equipment yourself, taking into account all the features.
• Despite the fact that most of the factory compressors are equipped with automatic systems, this feature is not implemented in some budget models. In other words, these units will have to be turned off on their own, timing the time by the clock. Homemade compressors are mostly equipped with a protective relay that turns off the engine if there is a risk of overheating.
• In some factory models, there may be no lubricant at all. Of course, their service life is small, but there are no various exhaust emissions. This circumstance is very important, especially if the spray gun behaves rather capriciously, not tolerating various impurities. As for homemade compressors, there is plenty of this oil. By the way, you need to pay attention to which one to pour - synthetics are very poorly combined with ordinary ones, so you do not need to pour everything that is horrible.
• The main feature of a home-made compressor is that it works very quietly, especially if you put all the tubes on it correctly, observing tightness. As for the factory compressors, they are more noisy, so it can only be used outside the home.
• The cost of making a homemade compressor is very low, because we take the main components from old equipment, and the adjustment equipment will cost us one thousand rubles. As for the factory compressor, the situation is different.
• It is not possible to make any technical changes to the factory compressor. In other words, if the unit is not powerful enough, then it can only be used as a pump for, no more. Homemade options are good in that you can add some details to them, for example, a large receiver, so you can significantly increase the power of the device.
• A factory compressor is a complete technical device, so any improvisation with it is impossible. With a homemade unit, you can do almost everything - take some parts out of the body, or hide everything in one box, and attach a handle on top for easy transportation.
• You can install a fan on a homemade compressor so that it cools the device from the outside.

Read also: Review of chargers for finger batteries

Most refrigeration compressors have some limitations in terms of their work... There are several modes in total:

• Normal - 16 to 32 C.
• Subnormal - 10 to 32 C.
• Tropical - 18 to 43 C.
• Subtropical - 18 to 38 C.

However, combined modes are more common, having different ranges.

So a homemade compressor can be much more efficient than factory, in terms of work with air.

On the video, a version of a homemade compressor for pumping wheels

Dismantling work

To make a homemade compressor from a refrigerator, you need to do some initial preparation. It consists in certain dismantling works, i.e. we just need to remove the compressor from the refrigerator itself. It is located at the back of the refrigerator, at the bottom of it. To remove it, we need an elementary set of tools: pliers, spanners and two screwdrivers (plus and minus).

On the compressor are located between the tubes that are connected to the cooling system. These tubes must be bitten off with pliers, but never sawed off with a hacksaw. The fact is that with this method, small chips are inevitably formed, which can get inside the compensator.

Then we move on to removing the starting relay - this is an ordinary black box, with wires sticking out of it. We unscrew the fasteners, then we cut off the wires that lead to the plug. We must not forget to mark the top and bottom of the starting relay - this will be useful to us in the future. By the way, we also take all the fasteners together with the unit itself.

Functional check

After we have removed the compressor, it is necessary check its performance.

The fact is that we are removing the device from the old refrigerator, so we need to make sure that our unit is still "alive". So, we flatten the tubes with pliers - this is necessary so that the air flow passes through them. Next, we need to put the starting relay in the position in which it stood in the refrigerator structure. This is very important, because if the position is incorrect, there is a risk of damage to the device, as well as failure of the compressor winding.

There are wires on the relay case, to which you need to screw a piece of wire with a plug. It is better to wrap the junction with electrical tape to eliminate the risk of electric shock. We plug the device into an outlet. If you did everything correctly, then the compressor will work, and air will flow from its pipes. By the way, it is necessary to mark from which tube the air flow comes out, and which one it goes to.

Step-by-step instruction

Before starting to do it yourself, you need to make sure that you have all the necessary materials and tools.

We offer you to watch a video with a detailed description of the process of one of the manufacturing options

Read also: We select oil for an air compressor

In addition to the compressor itself, which we previously removed from the refrigerator, we need:

• Receiver. In this case, you can use the body of an old fire extinguisher, or weld the body from sheet metal and pipes.
• Various hoses. In this case, the length of one hose should be at least 600 mm, and the other two - about 100 mm. In this case, you can take the hoses from the car.
• Various consumables - gasoline and diesel filters, wire, clamps, pressure gauge and epoxy.
• The accompanying toolkit, i.e. screwdrivers, pliers, drills, etc.
• In addition, we need a regular wooden board, which will be the basis of the entire structure. We attach the compressor to it using ordinary self-tapping screws. The fastening should be carried out exactly in the same position that it occupied in the structure of the refrigerator.

We take any plastic container of a suitable volume (from 3 liters or more). In the upper part, you need to drill a couple of holes for the dimensions of the outlet pipes. We insert the tubes, after which we fill everything with epoxy resin. The inlet tube, into which the air enters, must be located so that from its end to the bottom of the receiver it is about 200 mm. The outlet tube should be submerged ten centimeters inward.

This is a description of a plastic receiver, but for greater tightness it is best to make a receiver in an iron case. In this case, there is no need to fill everything with resin, and the hoses are simply welded. In addition, only a pressure gauge can be installed on an iron receiver.

To install it, you need to drill a hole for the nut on the receiver body. We insert it, and then we brew it. Only then we screw the pressure gauge into this nut, after which the work is finished. Now we attach the receiver to our base using a wire. The scheme will be something like this:

Our homemade unit is almost ready.

There are quite a few photos and videos of his work on the Internet, for example, it is shown how it is used in airbrushing and for painting various parts, so the expediency of its manufacture is quite obvious. Finally, we need to add a few extra touches to our device.

You need to take one of the hoses, which is ten centimeters long, and put it on the filter. If this is difficult, you can slightly heat the end of the hose to make it easier to slide onto the fitting. We put the other end of the hose on the inlet of our device. In this case, the filter will protect against dust getting into the case. The second 10 cm hose should be used to connect the inlet of the receiver and the outlet of the compressor. In this case, it is better to tighten the joints with clamps. Our third hose needs to be put on the diesel filter, and the other end is inserted into the outlet of the receiver. At the same time, the free filter nozzle will be further connected to various equipment for airbrushing, a spray gun for painting, etc.

Another video on the topic

Some technical data and service features

It is rather difficult to say unequivocally what pressure this or that compressor will show. Much depends on the specific brand and the operational life of the device itself. By the way, old units show even better performance than modern ones.

Read also: We repair Resant voltage stabilizers with our own hands

Maintenance of our homemade device is a very important point in operation.

The main work will consist of replacing diesel and gasoline filters, as well as changing the oil in the device. Compressors usually have three copper pipes. We used two of them earlier, and the third remained untouched. It is the shortest and sealed at the end. So, the oil is drained through it. To do this, it is necessary to cut off the sealed part, and then drain the processing, pouring is done through it.

Does the compressor need to be repaired?

As for the repair of the resulting device, then here everyone decides for himself personally- whether it makes sense to mess with it or not.

The repair will consist in ringing the relay, as well as changing the oil in the device. If the performed manipulations did not help, then there is absolutely no need to come up with something else. It is best to throw away the old device and then make a new one. Moreover, the issue price is no more than 1000-1500 rubles.

Conclusion

Basically, we figured out how to make a compressor from a refrigerator.

The expediency of its manufacture is difficult to overestimate, because with the help of this device it is possible to carry out various works on airbrushing, inflation of tires, painting of various components and other work requiring pressure.

An additional advantage is that such a device can be used at home, because it makes little noise. In fact, this is the same refrigerator, only without unnecessary body parts.
Compressors recommended for order are presented below:

Description and characteristics

CALIBER KMK-800/9

Compressor type - oil piston

Engine type - electric

Power - 800 W

Max. compressor capacity - 110 l / min

Min. pressure - 0.2 bar

Max. pressure - 8 bar

Receiver volume - 9 l

Drive (type) - direct

In the inventory of the car owner's garage, an air compressor will be useful. With it, you can paint a car, inflate tires, supply air to pneumatic tools. Consider how to make a compressor for painting with your own hands from available materials.

Compressed air is the true assistant of a true master

There is always a use for an air compressor in a garage: from the banal blowing off of dust from abrasive surfaces to creating excessive pressure in pneumatic tools. A large part of the compressor's working life is spent on painting a car. And this imposes certain requirements on the generated air flow.

It must flow strictly evenly and not have any impurities in the form of water droplets, oil or solid suspended particles. Defects such as graininess, shagreen leather and cavities on a freshly applied paint and varnish coating are precisely due to the ingress of foreign particles into the jet. Leaks of paint and matte stains on the enamel occur when the mixture flows unevenly.

Branded air compressors from the manufacturer have all the features for perfect airbrush performance, but they cost a lot of money. You can save money and create a functional model that is not inferior to professional ones on your own, having studied theoretical information and watching the video material "do-it-yourself compressor" as a guide. The principle of operation of all models, both self-made and professional, is quite simple and is as follows. A device for storing compressed air called a “receiver” is pressurized. Air can be injected both manually and mechanically.

With manual feeding, financial resources are saved, but a lot of effort and energy is spent on controlling the process. With automatic injection, all these shortcomings are eliminated, the only thing that remains is the routine oil change in the air pump. Further, compressed air through the outlet fitting is supplied with a uniform flow to the actuators. As you can see, there is nothing complicated, and you can create a workable model in a few minutes.

We make the simplest compressor with our own hands

One of the options would be to make a compressor for painting from a used car camera. For manufacturing you will need:

• The receiver is a car camera. It is possible with a tire, it is possible without it
• Supercharger - car pump with pressure gauge
• Nipple from a defective camera
• Repair kit for rubber
• Tailor's awl

Having collected the necessary materials, we proceed directly to the manufacture of the device. We take an unnecessary car camera and check it for leaks by pumping it up with a pump. If the balloon holds air, then everything is fine, and you can proceed to the next stage. If there are leaks, localize the damage and seal it or vulcanize it with raw rubber.

Further, a hole is made in the prepared receiver for an additional nipple, through which a uniform stream of compressed air will subsequently come out. We glue the additional fitting with a rubber repair kit and connect it to the spray gun. We unscrew the nipple in it - the air flow should come out freely. We leave the nipple in the native nipple of the car chamber - it will work as a valve, keeping the excess pressure.

Then we experimentally determine the required level of air pressure in the receiver by spraying paint onto any surface. The enamel should lay down evenly, without jerking. The magnitude of the excess pressure is determined using a manometer and should be such that when the aerator button is pressed, its level does not change abruptly.

It is not difficult to assemble such a compressor model, but you will immediately be convinced of the effectiveness of the repair with the help of a compressor, rather than with paint cans. The main thing is to follow the rule - moisture or dust should not get into the car camera, and, therefore, and then into the spray gun. Otherwise, they will mix with the car enamel, and all painting work will need to be done again. The assembled model will work properly, but it is better to automate the air injection and make additional changes to the design.

Semi-professional compressor for DIY painting

According to experts, home-made compressors with receivers have a longer service life than models from domestic and foreign manufacturers. And this is understandable - everything is done by hand and, even if some part fails, it will be a matter of a couple of minutes to replace it. Let's consider how to make an air compressor that is not inferior to the products of well-known companies from readily available materials that we need according to the list below:

• Pressure gauge
• Gearbox with oil-moisture separating filter
• Pressure control relay
• Petrol fuel filter
• Water supply cross (four-piece) with three-quarter female thread
• Threaded adapters
• Automotive clamps
• Compressor motor
• Receiver
• Semi-synthetic motor oil viscosity 10W40
• Toggle switch for 220 volts
• Brass tubes
• Oil resistant hose
• Thick base board
• Pharmacy syringe
• Rust converter
• Studs, nuts, washers
• Sealant, fum tape
• Metal paint
• File
• Furniture wheels
• Diesel Engine Power Filter

Finding all the components is easy, starting with the heart of the entire system - the air blower.

Engine - automatic compressor actuator

We will use a compressor from an old refrigerator as an engine. As a rule, they are equipped with a start relay, which is very convenient for constantly maintaining a certain pressure level in the receiver. It is preferable to use compressors from refrigerators of the old Soviet model, they allow pumping a higher pressure than their imported counterparts.

After pulling the executive unit out of the dilapidated refrigerator, clean it from the accumulated dirt and rust. Then treat with a rust converter to prevent further oxidation. By doing this, you will prepare the engine body for further painting.

The next step is to change the oil in the compressor. A rare refrigerator was regularly serviced and lubricated, which is quite justified - the system is completely isolated from the atmosphere. Semi-synthetic motor oil can be used, it is in no way inferior to compressor oil and, in addition, it has many useful additives.

There are three tubes on the compressor - 2 open and one sealed. The open ends are designed for air circulation, one of the tubes is the inlet, the other is the outlet. To determine which path the air is moving, briefly energize the compressor. And remember which duct is drawing in air and which is releasing.

The sealed tube is designed for routine oil changes. The closed end must be carefully removed. To do this, we file the tube in a circle with a file, trying to prevent metal filings from getting inside the system. Then we break off the filed end and drain the old oil into some vessel to determine the amount for replacement. And we fill in semisynthetics in a little more quantity with a syringe.

Then the engine lubrication system must be shut off. Why, picking up a screw of the appropriate size, wrap the fum with tape for tightness, screw it into the tube. The supercharger from the refrigerator tends to sweat with grease - that is, there are oil droplets in the outlet air stream. They will be delayed by the oil / water separator for the compressor. With our own hands, in the future, we fasten the engine with a starting relay on a wooden base in a position in which it was attached to the frame.

The compressor relay is sensitive to position in space and often its top cover is marked with an arrow. Only with the correct installation, the process of switching modes will proceed correctly.

Compressed air tank

Fire extinguisher cylinders are best suited for storing compressed air. They are designed for high pressure, have a large margin of safety and are ideal for mounting attachments. Let us consider the metal body of the OU-10 fire extinguisher with a working volume of 10 liters as a receiver. This cylinder is designed for a pressure of 15 MPa or 150 bar with a large margin of safety.

We turn off the locking and starting device (ZPU) from the future receiver and in its place we screw the adapter, onto the thread of which we wind the fum tape for sealing. If the fire extinguisher has traces of corrosion, then they must be removed with abrasives and a rust converter.

From the outside, everything is easy to do, but you will have to tinker a little with the inner surface. To do this, pour a rust-cleaning agent inside the container according to the instructions and thoroughly shake the contents. Then we screw in the plumbing cross, using sealant and fum tape for sealing. So, the two main parts of our compressor are ready, and you can proceed to the next stage.

Installation of device parts

For easy storage and handling, it is best to arrange all compressor parts compactly on one base. As a basis, we will use a wooden board, on which we securely fix the engine - the blower and the body of the fire extinguisher.

We fix the compressor motor with threaded rods threaded through the pre-drilled holes and nuts with washers. We place the receiver vertically, using three sheets of plywood to fix it, in one of which we cut a hole for the cylinder.

The other two, using self-tapping screws, are attached to the carrier board and glued to the sheet holding the receiver. Under the bottom of the receiver, at the base, we gouge a recess corresponding to the size. For maneuverability, we fasten wheels from furniture fittings to our base. Then we perform the following operations:

Now all that remains is to paint the entire compressor and proceed to field testing.

We regulate the pressure in the receiver chamber

Having assembled the structure, you should check its performance. We connect a spray gun or a tire inflation gun to the compressor outlet. After that, with the toggle switch off, turn on the plug into the network. We set the control relay to minimum pressure and then supply power to the blower. The pressure created in the receiver is controlled using a pressure gauge. After making sure that when a certain level is reached, the relay turns off the engine, we check the tightness of the air ducts and connections. This is easily done with a soapy solution.

After making sure that the compressed air does not leave the system, we bleed it out of the receiver chamber. As soon as the pressure in the cylinder drops below the set mark, the relay should trip and start the compressor. If everything is working properly, you can try to paint some unnecessary part. Preliminary work on preparing the surface for applying enamel is not required here - it is important for us to develop skills and determine how much pressure will be required to paint the product. Experimentally, we determine the value in atmospheres at which the excess pressure is enough to paint the entire part in an even layer with a minimum amount of blower operation.

As you can see, creating a car compressor with your own hands does not cause any particular difficulties. The device made according to the second option requires more time to manufacture, but all of it will pay off during further operation. The system of automatic pressure control and start-up of the blower will allow you to work with great convenience, without being distracted by the control over the receiver chamber. The compressor can be used not only for car care. With it, you can paint the fence, garage doors.

In order for a self-made compressor to serve for a long time and properly, routine maintenance should be carried out. This is, first of all, regular oil change and timely replacement of filter elements. Since we securely fixed the engine on the base, there is no point in unscrewing it. Use a syringe to drain the oil. Having unscrewed the screw closing the filler hole, we put the hose tightly on the tube and pump out the mining. We also pump fresh engine oil using a syringe. With filters, everything is easier - we change them as they become dirty and the speed of filling the receiver chamber decreases.

An alternative choice - do it yourself or buy finished products?

Today, the market for air compressor offerings abounds in variety. Piston, vibration, screw and many other classes of these devices are produced for various purposes. Ready-made compressors can be bought at home appliance stores, auto parts stores, on specialized sites. The variety of products offered is so great that it will take a long time to select the required product. If you decide to purchase a ready-made device, carefully study the technical specifications, price range and customer reviews.

Of course, it is better not to save money and purchase expensive products from well-known brands. But a big budget purchase only pays off if you plan to do car repair professionally. Choosing a little-known product is fraught with unnecessary risks. Cheap models sin with low-quality materials. It often happens that engine parts fly out instantly, and repairs under warranty take several months.

From the standpoint of reliability, hand-made assembly wins in many respects. Firstly, according to statistics, compressors in refrigerators have been operating for decades. And the old refrigerator is thrown away not because of a broken engine, but because of refrigerant leakage or corrosion of the walls and bottom. And there is nothing to say about a fire extinguisher - they are made with a tenfold safety factor, which is immediately checked at the factory. So maybe you shouldn't buy a pig in a poke, but make a device on your own? Moreover, after studying the material, you know how to make a compressor with your own hands in a domestic environment. A well-made and well-functioning device will not only delight the owner, but will also become the envy of familiar motorists.