Airbrush

Oil and the Airbrush Compressor

There are two types of compressors used in airbrush technique: diaphragm and piston-operated. And there are two types of piston-operated compressors: oil-less and oil immersed. Oil-less models are maintenance free, while oil immersed models require oil in the crankcase to prevent them from overheating and seizing up. Oil immersed compressors are generally the largest of compressors and the most quiet. The oil used is of a special quality and usually comes with the compressor at purchase. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the type of oil required. New oil can be purchased through your art supply store.

Depending on the amount of use, the oil should be changed periodically. There is normally a gauge on the compressor so the user can view the oil level and the color of the oil. If the level of the oil drops, new oil should be added; and if the oil becomes dark in color, this indicates it should be changed.

Because there is oil in the crankcase of the compressor, there is a possibility of it migrating into the air storage tank and/or the air hose to the airbrush. To prevent this from happening, an oil trap that is usually located on the air regulator should be drained periodically.

Because oil immersed compressors are the largest and quietest of airbrush compressors, they are the most expensive, as well. However, if you do a lot of airbrush spray painting, these models are highly recommended. See your retailer and visit www.silentaire.com and www.iwata-medea.com .

New Airbrush Newsletter

See the latest FREE issue of AirbrushTalk at www.airbrushtalk.com . Articles include Red, White and Bad – Tear Effects Honoring Our Soldiers by Thomas Adams; Journey from Dark to Light—Spray, Scratch and Play! by Shen; Ultimate Air Affair 2011 by Donn Shanteau; Give Them the Boot! by Janean S. Thompson; and more.

Copyright ARTtalk Vol. 21, No. 12 — October 2011