We make a compressor from a refrigerator with our own hands. Do you know how to assemble an air compressor from scrap materials? How to make a high pressure compressor from refrigerators

To buy or not to buy? That is the question. But for those who have an old faulty refrigerator with a working compressor, this question disappears - of course, make a compressor for painting using existing materials yourself!

Assembling a compressor yourself is not as complicated as it seems at first glance, especially if you know the principle of its operation. To assemble the compressor, you will need a motor that drives air into a container where the same air will be under pressure. The mechanism is designed in such a way that excess air, due to which the pressure in the container may exceed what is necessary, comes out through a special drain valve. This is necessary so that during the process of painting a car (or whatever else is needed) the paint spreads evenly over the entire surface, and this effect can only be achieved when there is constant pressure in the sprayer.

The compressor can be used in a variety of areas - for inflating tires, airbrushing, painting spare parts, and so on. Having the necessary tools and certain knowledge, it is quite possible to independently manufacture this unit based on a conventional refrigerator. A homemade compressor produces about 7 atmospheres, which is enough for an ordinary garage workshop. A compressor made from a refrigerator will be quite quiet and, most importantly, cheap in cost.

What is better - homemade or purchased?

In total, there are several main differences between them:

1. The design of the factory compressor contains 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.
2. The factory version already has automatic pressure relief systems, inlet and outlet filters, pressure meters, etc. installed. In a compressor from a refrigerator, you will have to install the control equipment yourself, taking into account all the features.
3. Despite the fact that most factory compressors are equipped with automatic systems, some budget models do not have this feature. In other words, these units will have to be turned off independently, noting the time on the clock. Homemade compressors are mainly equipped with a protective relay that turns off the engine if there is a risk of overheating.
4. Some factory models may not have any lubrication at all. Of course, they are small, but they lack various exhausts. 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 oil.
5. The main feature of a homemade compressor is that it works very quietly, especially if you put all the tubes on it correctly, maintaining a tight seal. As for factory compressors, they are noisier, so their use is only possible outside the home.
6. The cost of manufacturing a homemade compressor is very low, because the main components are taken from old equipment, and the control equipment will cost a maximum of 1000 rubles.
7. It is impossible 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 tire inflator, nothing more. Homemade options are good because you can add some parts to them, for example, a large receiver, thanks to which you can significantly increase the power of the device.

As practice shows, a homemade compressor for painting a car breaks down much less often than its foreign and domestic factory counterparts. On the Internet you can find many instructions on how to build compressors with your own hands. So let's discuss several options that can help in this matter.

Schemes for making a homemade compressor

Here are several options for device assembly schemes - choose which one is best suited for your purposes:

Compressor assembly parts

• pressure switch;
• pressure gauge;
• gearbox with oil and water separator;
• oil/moisture separator filter;
• adapters;
• cross;
• fitting and nut;
• coupling;
• nipple;
• a tube;
• car clamps;
• receiver;
• nuts, studs, washers;
• furniture wheels;
• automobile oil;
• toggle switch;
• plug and cord;
• fuel filter;
• plywood panels (chipboard);
• refrigerator compressor;
• oil and petrol resistant hose, screws, Epoxylin, sealant, paint, fum tape, rust remover and other small things.

I tested several different control valves in my versions. After several attempts, I ordered a RUCK14IAMSV check valve, it does not buzz and can be perfect for building a compressor from refrigeration units. You also need to buy a safety valve (MINI SVM14-12). Take a tank from a 16 kg powder fire extinguisher. The pressure in the tank is 9.5 bar, the shelf life is 2 months.

Important: pay attention to what kind of oil you pour in - synthetic oil does not combine very well with regular oil, so you don’t need to pour in just anything.

1. An oil separator must be installed between the compressor and the tank.
2. Oil should be added through the third solder tube.
3. It is best to solder the connector and screw it in with a screw or metal plug.
4. Install a dehydrator, it will also capture the oil.

Due to the sudden failure of the refrigerator, I became the owner of an efficient 110 W unit. Of course it can be converted into a compressor. There is a car airbrush, which was previously used with a 12-watt compressor, as well as with a high-power compressor. These devices are noisy and short-lived. So I had to make a homemade one.

Compressor assembly instructions

It is important to dismantle the compressor correctly to avoid damaging it. First, using wire cutters, cut through the tubes coming out of the engine leading to the radiator grille. Next, the wires from the relay are cut, but their length should remain approximately 20 cm. Before unscrewing the compressor, you need to make a mark on the relay cover.

Once the compressor blower circuit from the refrigerator is broken, the spindle will be exposed to the atmosphere, which will lead to a loss of its properties. If the factory oil in the supercharger is not replaced, its pistons will quickly wear out, causing the engine to fail. Therefore, it is recommended to first replace it with a semi-synthetic motor one. like from a car.

In addition to the outlet and inlet tubes, the compressor from a conventional refrigerator is equipped with a third tube with a sealed end. In order to use it in the future to paint a car, it is necessary to remove the clogged part. To do this, using a hacksaw for metal, you should make a neat cut around the tube, but without sawing all the way through, and then break off the cut piece. It is important that metal shavings do not get inside.

The remaining pipe must be flared and the old oil drained, then semi-synthetic oil must be poured into it in the same quantity. After which the pipe is sealed with a screw wrapped in fum tape.

The fire extinguisher housing is perfect for the receiver. It is important that it is cast, seamless and has a volume of 10 liters or more. Before using it, you need to inspect the inside of the fire extinguisher for corrosion. A flashlight is used for inspection. If corrosion is still present, it must be removed using a special liquid.

Stages of assembly work

Making a compressor from a refrigerator means following a simple sequence of steps:

1. Take pliers, a 12mm spanner, 2 screwdrivers - one for plus and one for minus. At the bottom of the rear panel, use pliers to cut through the tubes connecting the compressor to the cooling system. Unscrew the start relay, having previously marked the top and bottom sides on it. Disconnect the relay from the plug. We take all the fasteners with us.
2. Checking functionality: reconnect the relay, provide air access to the compressor through the tubes, connect to the network. If everything is done correctly, the device works. Air will flow into one tube and out of the other. Label these tubes.
3. Attach the compressor with self-tapping screws to a wooden board.
4. We take an old fire extinguisher, 1 hose 600 mm long, 2 others - 100 mm, fuel filter, clamps, pressure gauge, sealant. We already have a drill, a screwdriver, and pliers.
5. If there is no fire extinguisher, then we will make a plastic container. To do this, you need to take a container with a volume of more than 3 liters. Make 2 holes. Insert the inlet tube into 1 hole at a distance of 2 cm from the bottom of the container. We lower the outlet pipeline 10 cm deep. It is impossible to install a pressure gauge on a plastic tank.
6. If there is an iron tank, then the tubes can be fixed by welding. We install a pressure gauge on the iron receiver.
   We fasten the receiver and compressor together.
7. Place a filter on a 10 cm long hose and attach the free end of the tube to the inlet of the constructed apparatus. We use another hose to connect the receiver inlet to the compressor outlet. We fix the joining places with clamps. A diesel filter is attached to the last hose, and its free end is inserted into the outlet of the receiver. If necessary, equipment can be attached to the remaining end of the tube to make airbrushing and painting available.

Second version of step-by-step instructions:

1. We drill a special hole for the adapter that needs to be secured. You can choose different methods, for example, the most affordable is cold welding (using Epoxylin).
2. Carefully clean the bottom of the receiver from contaminants - plaque and rust. This is necessary so that Epoxylin adheres well to the surface for strong bonding. And, of course, so that the paint does not become dirty and does not form into lumps with debris. This can be achieved by sanding the bottom of the fire extinguisher to a metallic shine using rotating and circular movements with sandpaper.
3. We secure the adapter by clamping it on the front side with a nut, and give the Epoxylin time to harden according to the instructions.
4. Let's move on to the base for the compressor, for which you need to acquire three wooden boards or a piece of plywood measuring 30 by 30 cm. For the convenience of further moving our device, you can screw mobile furniture wheels to the base. We do not specifically describe the dimensions of the holes and other details, since this will all be purely individual, as it depends on the selected material, type of compressor, and so on.
5. We drill holes for the compressor and studs and mount them. The studs are secured with nuts and washers.
   We put a car filter with a special paper core on the inhalation of the compressor. This will help prevent dust and other small contaminants from getting inside the compressor.
6. Next we'll deal with the electrical work. To make our homemade compressor for painting a car convenient to use, we equip it with a pressure switch (for example, PM5 or RDM5), as well as a shutdown switch. The first device, a pressure switch, is necessary for us to turn off the compressor during the process of pumping air into the receiver, when the pressure reaches the permissible maximum, and vice versa, to turn it on when the pressure drops below the permissible minimum. You can set the values ​​of the maximum and minimum pressures directly on the relay using springs, with the large spring responsible for the minimum pressure (and the corresponding activation of the compressor), and the small one for the difference between the maximum and minimum pressure values.
7. Take a closer look and you will see 2 contacts on the relay, designed specifically for connecting it to the network. Since such relays were originally used in the water supply system, we will slightly change its purpose and connection features. Our task is to connect the first contact to the network, and the second to the compressor.
8. We place the general shutdown switch on the gap between the pressure switch and the 220V network. This will help de-energize the entire installation so that you don’t have to constantly run around to turn it on and off.
9. We paint the receiver and begin final assembly.
10. Screw the nut with the fitting onto the oil-moisture separator filter.
11. We take the hose and put one end of it on the fitting, and with the other we pull it onto the compressor tube and clamp it all with clamps. To do this, we take a reinforced, oil-resistant hose. Each threaded connection should be sealed with fum tape.
12. We screw the filter to the bottom of the receiver and treat the silicone connection with sealant.
13. We screw on the cast iron lid, but pre-treat its threaded connection with the same sealant. To improve sealing, you can place a rubber gasket under the lid.
14. You need to screw a tube onto the lid, the thread of which should be a quarter of an inch, and screw the cross onto it.

Installation of device parts

For ease of storage and movement, it is best to arrange all compressor parts compactly on one base. We will use a wooden board as a base, on which we securely mount the engine - supercharger and fire extinguisher housing.

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

We attach the other two using self-tapping screws to the supporting board and glue them to the sheet holding the receiver. Under the bottom of the receiver, at the base, we hollow out a recess of appropriate size. For maneuverability, we screw wheels made from furniture fittings to our base. Next we perform the following operations:

We protect our system from dust and coarse particles, for which we use a coarse fuel filter for gasoline engines as an air intake. For this purpose, we use a rubber hose that tightly presses the filter fitting and the inlet tube of the supercharger. There is low pressure at the compressor inlet and reinforcement of contact using automotive clamps is not required. Thus, we made an inlet filter for the compressor with our own hands.

An oil separator should be installed at the compressor outlet; it will not allow liquid particles to pass through. We use a diesel engine power system filter as this protection element. We connect it to the supercharger using an oil-resistant hose. Since the pressure at the outlet of the compressor is increased, here and everywhere else, to strengthen the contact, we use automotive clamps with fasteners tightened with a screw.

We connect the oil-moisture separating filter to the gearbox input. We need a reducer to decouple the pressure of the receiver and the outlet of the supercharger. We screw its high-pressure outlet into the water crosspiece on the left or right.

We screw a pressure gauge from the opposite entrance of the quad, using it we will control the pressure of compressed air in the cylinder. We screw the adjusting relay on top of the cross. We seal all connections with fum tape and sealant.

The relay will allow you to set a wide range of pressure levels in the receiver, promptly interrupting the supercharger power supply circuit. You can choose PM5 or RDM5 as the actuator. These devices will turn on the compressor if the compressed air pressure in the receiver drops below the set level, and turn off when the specified range is exceeded. The required pressure is adjusted on the relay using two springs. The large spring sets the minimum pressure level, and the small one regulates the upper limit, setting the compressor shutdown limit. RDM5 and PM5 were originally produced for use in the water supply network and are electrically passive, that is, they are ordinary switches with two contacts. We connect one contact to the zero of the 220 V network, and the second to the supercharger.

We connect the phase wire of the network through a toggle switch to the second network input of the compressor. The introduction of a toggle switch into the electrical circuit allows you to quickly disconnect the system from power without having to run to the outlet every time. We solder all electrical connections and carefully insulate them.

Compressor testing and adjustment

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

After assembling the structure, you should check its functionality. We connect a spray gun or a tire inflation gun to the compressor output. After this, with the toggle switch turned off, plug the plug into the network. We set the control relay to minimum pressure and then apply power to the supercharger. 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 easy to do with a soap solution.

After making sure that the compressed air does not leave the system, we bleed it from the receiver chamber. As soon as the pressure in the cylinder drops below the set mark, the relay should operate and start the compressor. If everything is functioning properly, you can try painting some unnecessary part. Preliminary work to prepare the surface for applying enamel is not required here - it is important for us to develop skills and determine what pressure will be required to paint the product. We experimentally determine the value in atmospheres at which the excess pressure is enough to paint the entire part in a uniform layer with a minimum number of blower activations.

Adjustment and testing

The main test of a homemade compressor is to determine the possibility of effectively regulating the pressure that is created in the assembled system. The easiest way to do this is to test paint a surface. In this case, the following is done sequentially:

1. Set the relay to 4…5 atmospheres.
2. Connect the compressor to the network.
3. The stability of the parameter is monitored using a pressure gauge. If the relay is operational, then if the pressure is exceeded, it will turn off the compressor; otherwise, open the relief valve and immediately turn off the unit.
4. Check the system for spontaneous bleeding of the energy carrier, for which you can use a regular soap solution.
5. When the pressure drops to a level below the minimum permissible, the relay should automatically turn on the compressor.
6. After painting any surface, it is necessary to check the quality of the paint applied to it - during an external inspection, no traces of moisture, foreign particles and dirt should be detected. If such defects do occur, you should additionally check the operation of the output filter - oil and water separator.

Video instructions for the compressor

The operation of the assembled unit will be long and reliable if routine maintenance is carried out periodically. It comes down to replacing inlet filters, periodically purging all air ducts, and also changing the oil in the compressor.

It is undesirable to load the compressor by more than 75% of capacity. But it is quite difficult to understand where the line is that cannot be crossed, to predict what pressure the compressor will show. It depends on when the refrigerator was released and what brand it is. On older models this figure will be better. Then, for comfortable, high-quality work, you only need to replace the consumable filters.

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 equipment. 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 consider several possible options for independently designing an 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 of the necessary components and parts.

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 — cross; 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 are taken: a motor-compressor from a refrigerator (preferably made in the 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 decommissioned 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.

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. When the supercharger is running, the fuel mixture 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. The main operational characteristics of an air compressor are 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 characterized by high performance, good efficiency, low noise and vibration during operation. Air type oil is 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 unpredictably affect 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 excess pressure for a spray gun and other pneumatic tools, and also find other uses for the equipment.

A do-it-yourself compressor with a receiver will last much longer than purchased equipment, provided it is properly assembled from high-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 at an industrial waste dump or from friends. Preference should be given to a refrigerator made in the USSR, since powerful and reliable compressors were used to produce Soviet refrigeration equipment.

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 the “input” and “output” in different colors so as not to confuse them 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 (a fire extinguisher is a good option).
• 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, motor oil and an 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 is often used in various fields, including painting, 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. A 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 balloon. 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. Install a relay on the top of the crosspiece to regulate the pressure, and a pressure gauge on 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, the oil-fired air compressor can be considered 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, use flux on the element and attach a collet clamp. 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 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.

WATCH VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

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

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 just one catch - such a device is too expensive, which many car enthusiasts cannot afford.

You can save money and at the same time create a functional model 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 at least be 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; the manual method is 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 assemble a 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 with 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 indicators can be monitored using a special device - a 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 at the highest 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 small 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 generate 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 a DIY 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 of the homemade compressor design.

Carrying out installation of parts

It was previously stated that a wooden board is suitable for fixing the engine and the fire extinguisher body; it is 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 regulation. 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 a 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 burden yourself with pre-treatment of the 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 making a car compressor.

You can choose different production options, but the use of navigator start-up and automatic pressure control is a more complex design, but its use is a sheer 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 an ideal option for our case - for relays.

The bottom line is that the connection element fits onto an external 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 solving the issue with adapters, it is important to think about the moment of installation of the structure; most often chipboard slabs are used for this. 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 simplify preparation for 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.

It is easier to assemble the hydraulic accumulator, because there are brackets on both sides. The lower part is fixed to the base, and the upper part is used for installing homemade equipment.

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 - all these are 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, in this matter you should be guided by technical indicators, cost and reviews of those who have already assessed it.

If you are chasing warranty periods, then you should pay attention to models from 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 any more risks in this matter. Many manufacturers of budget options save on components.

As a result, you will encounter frequent breakdowns and replacement of parts, while 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 of a homemade device for painting a car last 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 is an 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 is quite obvious that buying a finished product is much easier. This entails less labor costs. However, self-production 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 plank;
• 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 begin work with the most important element - the engine, which 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. When 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 the correct location so that the relay works 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 treatment with 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 the homemade receiver is ready.

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

Assembling the device

We attach the receiver from the fire extinguisher 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 a plywood sheet that holds the homemade receiver. We screw the wheels of furniture fittings onto the bottom of the wooden base 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 inlet air 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.

Using 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 car compressor 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 plug the plug into the 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 and 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.

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