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I'm thinking of switching from a compressor to a large bottle I can fill up at a welding supply store, for my modeling needs. The quiet of a compressed gas bottle is a huge selling point, plus no wear and tear on a compressor that cycles. Does anyone run something like this, and can you offer pros and cons on it?
Thanks!
Chris
"Some say the alien didn't die in the crash. It survived and drank whiskey and played poker with the locals 'til the Texas Rangers caught wind of it and shot it dead."
Chris, I just exchanged one of my CO2 bottles for a full one today at the welding supply store. It cost $13.08. I believe my lease on the two bottles (24" tall, 8' diameter) runs about $100 a year. It's quiet, no moisture problems and very easy to regulate. I started with one bottle, then got another so I could have a back-up when one ran out. A compressor is probably cheaper in the long run, but I really like the gas for all the above reasons. I wouldn't go back. ymmv.
Gary
"All you mugs need to get busy building, and post pics!"
How many models do you get out of one tank?
dirkpitt77 How many models do you get out of one tank?
Dirk, it's really hard to give an accurate answer because I build so sporadically. I'm lucky if I actually finish two aircraft in a year. Also, with two tanks, I usually don't remember how long it is between exchanges (fill ups if you will). I spray as much of each kit as possible of course, and thoroughly clean my airbrush after each color change. I would guess however, that if used judiciously, one 20lb. tank would paint 3 or 4 1/48 scale airplanes. I wish I could give you a more definitive answer, sorry.
One of the members of our local IPMS chapter is a commercial artist, and he has chosen to use a CO2 tank exclusively. Of course, he has a regulator and pressure gauge on it. He has demonstrated air brush use in general at a couple of our sessions, using the tank, and he turns out absolutely beautiful models!
I think it's a good way to go.
Gimme a pigfoot, and a bottle of beer...
Gary, no need to apologize-that was very helpful. Thanks guys, for your comments. Any others feel free to add to the discussion.
--Chris
I bought a CO2 tank many years ago. Recently, I found out that they have to get hydrostatic test whenever they are refilled. They also "expire" after 10 years; they should have a date stamped on them near the top. Once they expire, they have to be disposed of. If you get one of those, lease it from a gas supply shop instead of buying one.
CO2 cylinders have to be retested every 5 years. As long as they pass inspection they are good to go. I regularly see cyl that are 60 or 70 years old.
It might be cheaper to buy a cylinder rather than lease. You will have to pay to retest every 5 years, but in the long run it may be cheaper. (some welding supply stores won't sell. lease only)
The couple guys I know who use 20# tanks, i'm pretty sure they paint a dozen or more aircraft from 1 20 pound cylinder, i'm guessing much more but not sure.
A regulator with a gauge and fine adjustment control and you'll be set!
Well, if $100 is the average for a yearly lease, that puts me out of the running. That's a little spendy for my tastes, at least until my compressor fails. Thanks for the info all.
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