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Homemade items from the refrigerator that you can make. Homemade airbrush from a compressor from a refrigerator. “Homemade” or factory compressor

The compressor can be used in a variety of applications and industries. It can be used for inflating wheels on a car, for airbrushing, painting parts, and more. Having the tools and some technical knowledge, anyone can make a compressor from a refrigerator on their own. This homemade product produces about 7 atmospheres and this is enough for a garage workshop. A self-made compressor from a refrigerator is good decision, which combines productivity and savings cash. About how to make a compressor out of a refrigerator and how reliable it will be, further in the article.

Self-assembly of a compressor is not as difficult as it might seem upon superficial examination of the issue. Knowledge of the operating principles of this equipment greatly simplifies the process of retraining a refrigerator into this unit. For a compressor to assemble it, you will need a motor that moves air into a container where it will be located under a certain pressure.

The design of the mechanism is such that the excess air masses, which can lead to exceeding the pressure in the tank, will exit through a specialized drain valve. This is required so that during painting vehicle or other objects, coloring composition distributed and lay evenly over the entire surface.

Attention! Uniform distribution of paint over the surface can be achieved using a compressor only by maintaining a constant (at the same level) pressure in the sprayers.

“Homemade” or factory compressor

There are several differences between a homemade compressor and a device that is manufactured in production, including the following points:

1. The design of the factory product contains an electric motor that transmits torque to the working chamber via a belt drive. In the case of a homemade product, it is assembled from a body and a motor, but there are no belts in its structure.
2. Factory models come pre-installed automated systems, which relieve excess pressure, output and input filters. If you make it yourself, you will have to install the control and adjustment equipment yourself, taking into account each of the characteristics and features.
3. Most factory compressors, although they have automated systems, in part budget models there are none. That is, you will have to turn off such mechanisms yourself, keeping track of time. On homemade products, they usually install protective relays (they turn off the unit in case of danger of overheating).
4. Some factory compressors are not lubricated, but in the case of homemade ones there is a lot of oil, which is not always good, especially in cases of “capricious” behavior of the spray gun, which does not tolerate any foreign impurities.
5. The key feature of homemade products is the low noise level during operation, provided that the required tubes are fully inserted and the seal is maintained. Factory models produce more noise and cannot be used in residential areas.
6. The cost of assembling a compressor with your own hands is extremely low, since the main components are removed from old equipment, and the control parts cost up to one thousand rubles.
7. There is no opportunity to make design changes to factory models, that is, if the equipment’s power is high, then it can only be used as a pump for inflating car wheels. Self-assembled compressors are more functional and it is permissible to add some elements to them, for example, a large receiver, which will significantly increase the power of the unit.

But, given all of the above, one fact needs to be taken into account - a homemade compressor breaks down much less often than those models that were produced on an industrial scale in factories and factories.

Compressor for refrigerator air

To assemble the compressor yourself, you will need the following parts:

• pressure switch;
• gearbox with oil and moisture separator;
• oil/moisture separator filter;
• pressure gauge;
• adapters;
• nipple;
• receiver;
• nuts, studs, washers;
• automobile clamps;
• nut and fitting;
• coupling;
• crosspiece;
• wheels for furniture;
• toggle switch;
• automobile oil;
• refrigerator compressor;
• fuel filter;
• cord and plug;
• plywood or chipboard panels;
• screws;
• oil and petrol resistant hose;
• "Epoxylin" and sealant;
• fum tape;
• dye;
• rust remover and the like.

The best option for a check valve is the RUCK14IAMSV check valve, which does not produce much noise and is well suited for building air compressors from refrigeration equipment. In addition, you will need a MINI SVM14-12 safety valve, and it is better to take a tank from a 16 kg powder fire extinguisher. The pressure with such a tank is 9.5 bar.

Attention! It must be taken into account that synthetic car oil It doesn’t go well with the regular one, so you need to watch what flows first and then.

A few points to pay attention to during collection:

1. An oil separator must be installed between the tank and the compressor.
2. Oil is added exclusively through the third solder tube.
3. The best option is to solder the connector and screw it with a metal plug or screw.
4. For better oil capture, it is advisable to install a dehydrator.

A homemade compressor, according to many reviews, is much more reliable in comparison with factory models, especially in cases of factory ones for automobile airbrushing.

How to assemble an air compressor from a refrigerator

It is important to correctly remove the compressor from the refrigerator so that it is not damaged. The process algorithm is as follows:

1. First, using wire cutters, cut off the tubes that come out of the engine and lead to the radiator grille.
2. The relay wires are cut, but their length should remain about 20 cm.
3. A mark is made on the relay cover before unscrewing the compressor.
4. After a rupture of the supercharger circuit, the spindle is exposed to the atmosphere and this leads to a loss of its properties. The factory oil in the supercharger needs to be replaced to prevent rapid engine failure. The best option is a semi-synthetic engine for cars.
5. In addition to the inlet and outlet tubes, the refrigeration compressor has a third one, one end of which is sealed. The clogged part must be removed using a hacksaw. It is important that the chips do not remain inside the tube.
6. The remaining pipe is flared and the old oil is drained, which is subsequently replaced with semi-synthetic oil in the same volume.
7. After changing the oil, the pipe is plugged back with a screw tied with fum tape.

The fire extinguisher body is the best option for the receiver. The main thing is that it is solid and without seams, and its volume is at least 10 liters. Before using it, you need to carefully inspect it for corrosion inside (using a flashlight). If there is rust, it can be removed using a specialized liquid.

Which oil is best for an air compressor?

Starting and most important point preparation, on which subsequent work and service life depend homemade compressor- oil change. At the factory, the spindle is filled, so-called “clean”; it is also called compressor and freon. But, in fact, it is mineral and does not contain additives, since the compressor is in refrigeration equipment operates in an airless and enclosed space and is not affected by the environment in any way.

When a refrigerator compressor is used for other purposes, for example, converted into an air compressor, the oil begins to be affected by oxygen, moisture, dust, and more. Because of this, mineral oil begins to rapidly oxidize and become clogged, which leads to the loss of its original characteristics. The result is the following events:

• the compressor overheats;
• the piston system begins to actively wear out;
• the noise level increases.

In addition to the above, due to the relatively low wetting and binding characteristics, mineral oil will “fly” to the outlet in large quantities, leading to air clogging with vapors and, as a result, a decrease in the operating level of the compressor.

Motor vehicle oil does not have most of the listed problems, primarily due to the presence of certain additives in its composition. They completely eliminate or partially compensate for factors that negatively affect durability and quality characteristics oils

Engine oil is designed for more severe operating conditions than those that will occur during operation of a homemade compressor.

Reference! It is not advisable to use fully synthetic oils, as they cost more, have less thickness and do not last as long as semi-synthetic ones.

Compressor from an industrial refrigerator

Compressors from industrial refrigeration units They operate due to a three-phase network connection circuit and therefore are designed for a voltage of 380 V. When such equipment is converted to pump air masses and a 220 V network voltage, it is possible to obtain higher output pressure and power. To implement such an idea, you need to buy the appropriate transfer adapter-starter (it is connected to the 220 network, and the output is three phases at 380 V). If you completely redo it, you will need to refer to specialized literature and knowledgeable people who understand electrical circuits.

Compressor for painting

To make an airbrush from a refrigerator compressor, you need to follow this algorithm:

1. To implement the design, it is necessary to make a stand - this will allow you to secure the components of the circuit. The stand is made from a sheet of chipboard, the parameters of which depend on the size of the receiver (the part that catches oil drops and regulates air pulsation). For this purpose, you can use plastic bottles and canisters for food products different volumes. The container can be mounted on chipboard using metal tubes or wire. Receiver volume – up to 5 liters.
2. After securing the container, you need to make a couple of holes in the lid and insert copper tubes through them. Fill the container from the inside with oxide resin, wait for it to harden, apply sealant and screw tightly.
3. In plywood (9 mm and thicker), the legs are fixed and specialized holes are drilled for mounting the compressor. A start relay, a switch and a power cord are attached nearby.
4. After securing all the electrical appliances, the rest of the system is mounted - a gas filter is fixed at the compressor outlet.
5. The output of the unit is connected to the input of the receiver using clamps and a rubber tube. A diesel filter is attached to the outlet of the receiver.
6. After connecting and securing the parts, the airbrush is turned on and its performance is assessed. If the air hisses in the tubes and the compressor functions, it is assembled correctly. But you shouldn’t use the device right away, since the sealant needs time to harden.

Advice! It is advisable to mount the compressor on the edge of the plywood, as this facilitates the process of changing the oil.

Auto compressor

Subject to availability the necessary tool Riya and some understanding of the process, assemble the compressor for pumping with your own hands car tires not difficult. The homemade product produces approximately 7 atmospheres, and this is enough for work in the garage. An autocompressor from a refrigerator is quite quiet and cheap, compared to factory units.

To use a compressor to inflate tires, you only need to install the appropriate tip, which can be removed from a regular pump. Otherwise, all work occurs according to the algorithm given for assembling the air compressor.

Test and adjustment

The key test for a homemade air compressor is to determine whether it is possible to effectively regulate the pressure produced by the system. The easiest way to carry out this check is during a test painting of the surface, during which the following is performed:

1. The relay is set to 4-5 atmospheres and the compressor is connected to the network.
2. Using a pressure gauge, the stability of the set parameters is determined; when the relay is stable, then when the pressure increases, it will turn off the compressor. If this does not happen, you must open the reset valve and immediately disconnect the unit from the network.
3. The system is checked for spontaneous bleeding of the energy carrier (this should not happen) - for this it is possible to use an ordinary soap solution.
4. If the pressure drops to a level that is lower than the minimum permissible, the relay is also required to automatically turn off the compressor.

Upon completion of painting the surface, it is necessary to check the quality of application of the composition - during the external inspection there must be no traces of moisture, dirt and foreign particles. If such defects exist, then it is necessary to additionally double-check the functionality of the output filter (oil and moisture separator).

Results

Making an air compressor out of a refrigerator is quite simple if you have the necessary tools and some knowledge. The operation of the assembled homemade product will be long-lasting and without breakdowns, in cases where preventive maintenance is performed - replacing water filters, oil and purging each of the air ducts. At the same time, load the assembled unit over 75% of its full power not recommended, since in homemade products it is possible to determine the extreme permissible limit, the operation of the device on which will not lead to breakdowns is virtually impossible.

It is difficult to determine the exact number of atmospheres that will be produced by hand assembled compressor from the refrigerator, since a lot depends on the brand. In the case of old refrigerators there will be large number atmospheres and for the quality of work only timely replacement of consumable filters and oil is required.

Video: Compressor from a refrigerator to inflate wheels

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

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

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

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

Which compressor to choose (factory or homemade)

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

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

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 be at least of high quality.

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

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

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

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

We collect compressor unit from improvised means -

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

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

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

If the problem still exists, then it can be solved in two ways - by gluing or vulcanization raw rubber. In the resulting reverse you need to make a hole for feeding 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, special tools and no knowledge is required 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 car camera. Otherwise, you will have to re-paint the car.

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

Alternative to a professional device (refrigerator compressor)

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

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

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

Creation of the mechanism itself

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

Foreign competitors are inferior to this model, because they are not able to 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 far from external influence, then justifiably no maintenance work was carried out there. To carry out this procedure, you do not need expensive oil; semi-synthetic oil is sufficient.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It is worth noting that this part 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?

Cylinder capable of withstanding high blood pressure- This is a fire extinguisher container. At the same time they have high performance strength and can be used as attachments.

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

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

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

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 engine mounting, they will serve threaded rods and washers, 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 on the hole with the entrance compressor equipment The pressure readings are 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 also screw in the pressure gauge itself with right side, where the exit is located on the opposite side.

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

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

To set the proper pressure, springs are used on the relay. The large spring is responsible for the minimum indicator, but the small one is responsible for the maximum, thereby establishing 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 options production, but the use of navigator launch, automatic pressure control is more complex design, but using it is pure pleasure.

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

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

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

Compressor connecting components

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

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

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

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

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

You won’t have to invent for a long time here, just visit a furniture store, where there are a lot of such furniture wheels. To save space in your workshop, you can build a two-story structure. But here it’s better to stock up on large bolts to secure the structure. To 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 fixing the wheels for installation on chipboard sheet. Since the structure is planned on two levels, it is necessary to make holes for the studs where the fire extinguisher will be placed.

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

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

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

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

What is better: buy or make a compressor yourself?

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

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

Such a wide range makes it difficult to choose required product. 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're chasing warranty periods, then you should pay attention to models of popular brands. Expensive products are worth purchasing if you are engaged in repair work at a professional level.

Products that do not have a name and status can let you down, so it is better to spend money once and not take any more risks in this matter. Many manufacturers 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 homemade device for painting a car it lasts much longer - compressors from refrigerators can last for decades, a fire extinguisher also has a colossal safety margin.

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

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

A small-sized compressor is a very necessary thing for a garage or personal workshop. It is used to solve many problems.

For painting with a spray gun and applying a layer of glue to large surfaces, for artistic work with an airbrush, for blowing dust from the workplace or simply for inflating tires...

At the same time, the need for this unit for many is not one-time, but episodic. Therefore, if you, for example, are not an airbrush artist, buying an industrial compress is simply unprofitable.

However, having certain craftsmanship skills, it is not difficult to make such a device yourself. In this article we will tell you how to make a master compressor from a refrigerator.

There are many examples of such artifacts of technical creativity. Just type the appropriate request and look at the photos on the Internet. To build a compressor from a refrigerator with your own hands, you must first understand what all these designs have in common.

What structural elements do they contain and why? Of course, the question of whether or not you have the necessary mastery skills is not even discussed here. Of course you have!

All these design elements can be very roughly divided into basic and additional. “Conditionally” - because everything depends on the purposes for which you will use the compressor.

If you just need to inflate your car tires, then practically only one compressor is enough. Although in this case it must be secured on some basis.

It may be better to install this base on wheels to make it easier to move the compressor around the garage. It will need to be equipped with inlet and outlet pipes and air filters on them.

You need to install a pressure gauge at the outlet and think about it reliable fastening air duct hose.

Important! But if you work with an airbrush, then the most important thing for you is the stability of the air flow. Therefore, you will inevitably have to install a receiver in the system.

A receiver is, roughly speaking, a cylinder into which air is supplied from a compressor. And from this cylinder it is consumed as needed.

Here you need to clearly understand what air pressure you are going to work with. The operating pressure of a typical refrigerator compressor is 15-20 atmospheres. Although it’s better to check with the documents for the unit... To inflate tires, 3 atmospheres is enough.

Interesting! To solve most other problems, 6 - 8 atmospheres are enough.

Unless you are going to work with some particularly powerful pneumatic tools. But in this case, for example, for a jackhammer, even 20 atmospheres may not be enough.

That is, when installing a receiver into the system, you need to think about two things:

1. What maximum pressure is it designed for? Of course, the maximum pressure must be higher than the working pressure! For example, a receiver from a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher cylinder was initially designed for the highest working pressure at 15 MPa or 148.04 atmospheres. For a cylinder of a powder fire extinguisher, for example OP-8, this will be 15.79 atmospheres. A receiver from a household cylinder can also operate at the same pressure. liquefied gas. And the receiver from the KAMAZ brake system operates at 16 atmospheres. These are proven options. It’s more difficult with homemade ones or theoretically not designed to work with high blood pressure containers.
2. How will the receiver be protected from excess pressure? There are two possible options here. The first is the release of excess pressure into the surrounding atmosphere using a bypass valve. The second is the automatic shutdown of the compressor.

All these are the main points that you need to think about when thinking about how to make a compressor.

So that everything is not “like clockwork”...

The main difference between a refrigerator compressor and industrial compressors: it is originally designed to work in closed system. That's why he literally bathes in oil!

Oil is mixed with freon, freon with oil, then separated, then mixed again... That is, the lubrication system in the refrigerator compressor is in no way isolated from the flow of the main reagent that this compressor pumps!

Therefore, when you start pumping air with this compressor, oil will inevitably splash out of the outlet pipe. The first thing to do is to make this pipe in the shape of an inverted letter “L”.

At the top, in front of the second L-shaped bend, behind which the receiver is located, an oil filter is installed.

In it, just below the middle, a conical plate directed upward is installed. Gaps are left between the plate and the walls of the chamber. The air flow from the compressor, entering the chamber from below, is slowed down by the conical plate and the drops of oil that it carries with it roll back down.

Important! Although you need to understand that microparticles of oil and moisture still remain in this air flow. Therefore, firstly, don’t even think about “filling” air into scuba tanks with this compressor!

And secondly, the receiver will gradually fill at the bottom with oil-water condensate. In order not to unscrew the entire system each time to clean it, it is better to provide a drain hole in the bottom of your presumably fire extinguisher.

Then it’s a matter of fantasy

Anyone who once rode “for power” on a moped or motorcycle without an air filter knows what deep scratches leaves this one, in appearance " clean air» on the piston skirts and cylinder walls.

Therefore, when thinking about how to make a compressor with your own hands, you inevitably have to think about the inlet air filter. It is enough to make the inlet pipe under internal diameter car air filter.

It must be done in the shape of the same inverted letter “G” to avoid splashing the oil outward. Of course, it is also necessary to make a seal to prevent air leaks from below. Surely there is something suitable for this in the corner of your garage?

...So, let's trace the path of air through the compressor we are creating. Through air filter from the car and the inlet pipe, air enters the “pump”.

Coming out through another pipe under pressure, the air gets rid of oil dust in the oil separator and oil filter. Then the air enters the receiver.

It should be noted that the air must pass through the receiver in order to dampen pressure surges. Therefore, if you simply screw a tee into the neck of your fire extinguisher - at the inlet, at the outlet and at the pressure gauge - this will not give any result.

Ideally, this diagram looks like this. Air enters almost to the bottom of your fire extinguisher through one of the two, longer tubes - and exits through the second, shorter one. Between the inlet and outlet holes there is a third one, into which a pressure gauge is screwed in, indicating the air pressure in your fire extinguisher.

A bypass valve or relay is connected in parallel with the pressure gauge. There are also pressure gauges that combine a relay option. Next, from the outlet pipe of the receiver, air enters a hose capable of withstanding a pressure of 6 - 8 atmospheres for use.

If you frequently change the tool connected to the compressor, it is reasonable to install a special pneumatic lock-connector at the end of the hose. It allows you to connect and disconnect the tool with one simple movement of your fingers.

Interesting! If you only work with one thing each time, then you can get by with a regular ball valve in front of the hose. In the same way - convenient, useful, but not included in the “necessary package” - is a second pressure gauge showing the pressure in the hose.

As already said, this is the required level of equipment. These are the tasks that must be solved if you decide to build a compressor for your workshop yourself. Then it’s just a matter of the master’s imagination.

You can, for example, install a cooler for cooling. It’s no secret that air heats up when compressed. Instead of a car air filter at the inlet, you can install a water filter, similar to a hookah.

You can install two in series - instead of one receiver. Or make a salt filter, dry the exhaust air... For each purpose there are different means.

It is not necessary to buy a compressor for painting works 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 look at a few possible options for making your own air compressor.

Air compressor made from refrigerator and fire extinguisher parts

This unit operates almost silently. Let's look at the diagram future design and make a list of 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 taken are: a motor-compressor from a refrigerator ( better production USSR) and a fire extinguisher cylinder, which will be used as a receiver. If they are not available, then you can look for a compressor from a non-working refrigerator at repair shops or at metal collection points. A fire extinguisher can be purchased on the secondary market or you can involve friends in the search, who at work may have 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.

A homemade refrigerator compressor is most often used in conjunction with an airbrush or spray gun, as it operates almost silently, takes up little space and creates sufficient air pressure. It is also suitable for inflating car wheels. Next we will tell you how to make a compressor with your own hands.

Materials and tools for a homemade refrigerator compressor

Compressor. The motor is from an old refrigerator and is called a compressor; it is the central element of our product. You can see what it looks like in the photo: details different models may differ, but in general they are similar to each other. The compressor is supplied with a start relay (a black box attached to the side), from which comes a power cord with a plug.

Receiver. A container into which air will be pumped by a compressor. Options are possible here: any tightly closing container with a volume of 3 to 10 liters made of iron or plastic is suitable. This could be an empty fire extinguisher, small tanks, various receivers from trucks, canisters for construction liquids.

Hoses. You will need three pieces of hose. Two are 10 cm long and one is 30-70 cm long, depending on the shape of the receiver and the intended mounting. It is convenient to use fuel hoses in a car, as they will connect to car filters.

You will also need one hose or tube to connect a ready-made homemade compressor from a refrigerator to the air consumer itself. Here the length and material depend on the specific needs. If you will be using a compressor with an airbrush, any thin polyvinyl hose (or the one that came with the airbrush) will do. When using the compressor outdoors, it is better to look for a thicker hose.

• Clamps. 5 pieces, size 16 or 20 mm.
• Tubes. Two pieces - copper or iron, with a diameter of 6 mm or another - the main thing is that the hoses fit.
• One is 10 cm long, the second is 20-50 depending on the size of the receiver, more details below.
• Automotive fuel filters. One petrol and one diesel.
• Pressure gauge (optional).
• Epoxy resin if using a plastic receiver.
• Piece wooden board(warp). The size depends on the size of the receiver and motor. They should be placed on the board nearby.
• Steel tape or wire. Needed to secure the receiver.
• Self-tapping screws for wood.

Tools:

• Sharp knife
• Screwdriver
• Drill
• Pliers.
• Metal file (optional).

How to make a compressor with your own hands

Now directly about how to make a compressor with your own hands.

Three tubes come out of the compressor from the refrigerator: two open and one short, sealed. Plug in the compressor and move your finger near the outlets of the tubes. The one from which air blows will be the exit, and the one that draws in will be the entrance. Remember which is which and unplug the compressor. Using a metal file, cut two tubes, leaving 10 cm or more to make it convenient to connect the hoses. You can bite it off with pliers, but you need to make sure that sawdust does not get inside the tubes. Next, we attach the compressor to the base board, screwing the legs with self-tapping screws (you can use bolts, it’s more reliable). Important: we fix the compressor in the same position in which it was fixed in the refrigerator. The fact is that the starting relay on the motor works due to the forces of gravity; there is an arrow on the relay body pointing up. Having secured the compressor, we move on to the receiver.

Let's make a receiver. Option if you have a plastic container. We drill two holes in the lid for our tubes. We insert them there, as shown in the figure, and fasten them epoxy resin. We leave ends 2-4 cm long on top. Now about the length of the tubes. A short one (10 cm) will be a day off. The second will be the entrance, we make it as large as possible so that it does not reach a few centimeters to the bottom of the receiver. This is done to space the inlet and outlet openings inside the receiver as far apart as possible for greater air mixing.

If you have an iron receiver, we do the same, but do not glue the tubes, but solder or weld them. You can also weld nuts, and then screw fittings into them for the hoses.

The pressure gauge can only be installed in a metal receiver. To do this, we drill in any convenient location there is a hole in the receiver and solder a pressure gauge in it. A more preferable option: weld a nut onto the hole and screw the pressure gauge into the nut. This way, if the pressure gauge fails, you can easily replace it.

Now we take a piece of hose (10 cm) and put it on the gasoline filter. If you use gasoline hoses, there should be no problems; if you use polyvinyl pipes, you may have to heat it with a match or hold it in boiling water so that it fits onto the filter fitting. We put the second end of the hose on the inlet tube of the compressor. This filter at the entrance is needed to filter out dust. Here, the use of clamps on the connections is not necessary, since there is no pressure here.

We take the second piece of hose and connect it with the outlet tube on the compressor to the inlet tube on the receiver. We install clamps at the connection points.

Now we put the third piece of hose (10 cm) with one end on the outlet tube of the receiver, and put the other end on the diesel filter. We put on the clamps. There is an arrow on the filters (diesel and gasoline) indicating the correct direction of movement through the air filter. Connect both filters correctly. A diesel outlet filter is needed to filter water from the air.

We put our working hose on the outlet fitting of the diesel filter, which goes directly to the airbrush, spray gun, etc.

We screw rubber feet onto the underside of the base board or glue felt pads for furniture. If this is not done, the compressor may scratch the floor during operation - it vibrates. The level of vibration and noise depends on the model of refrigerator compressor you get. Motors from imported refrigerators are almost inaudible, Soviet ones are also quiet, but there are exceptions.

The pressure generated also depends on the model. Ancient motors are more powerful. Most Soviet compressors are capable of pumping up pressure to 2-2.5 bar. The compressor in the photo creates a pressure of 3.5 bar.

Maintenance of a homemade compressor from a refrigerator

Compressor maintenance involves regularly changing both filters and draining any accumulated oil in the receiver. But the main factor affecting the service life of the compressor is the frequency of oil changes. It is better to change it the first time before assembling the compressor. There is a third sealed tube on the motor. We cut off the sealed end from it and drain the oil from it, turning the engine over. About a glass of oil will spill out. Now, using a syringe through the same tube, fill in fresh motor oil, a little more than the amount that was drained.

Afterwards, in order not to solder the drain tube, we screw the bolt into it suitable size. The next time you change the oil, simply unscrew the bolt.