Using an air compressor to safely clean a computer

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casewindow

310 posts

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#67003 26-Aug-2010 17:45

I want to stop using cans of compressed air.

I want to get a small cheap air compressor to clean my computer, but I don't really know where I can get one that satisfies all the safety requirements I've read about.

Needs to be

1. Small, relatively cheap (say < $50)
2. Willing to pay extra for:
      * water trap
      * oil trap (?)
      * moisture filters
3. Needs to be grounded so that it doesn't generate static electricity
4. Needs to be able to be controlled (so can turn it down to say 20-30psi)

Is this something that I would be able to pickup at bunnings/supercheapauto or do I need to go specialised?

If anyone knows a brand/model for which I can get all the extras that would be great.

hellonearthisman

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#373316 26-Aug-2010 19:37

The filter, water trap and regulator are a combined unit.
ie: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Building-renovation/Tools/Airtools-compressors/Regulators-hoses/auction-311...

Get new hoses as they might be full of oil and what have you from a previous owner who may not have worries about filtering.

Not sure a $50 tire pump compressor will have enough free flow to be a decent duster and could require a reserve tank to sufficient pressure to be obtained. But if you have a decent length hose, then that could function as your reserve tank, if your duster has a tiger so you can start and stop air flow. So it would be compressor -> hose -> regulator -> hose -> duster and you wont of pressure control on the last bit of hose but really it shouldn't be a problem at all.

I'd say get a big little compressor as it will do that little dusting job and bigger dusting jobs too.

casewindow

310 posts

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#373331 26-Aug-2010 20:03

ok I think I get it. I'll look for a small compressor / tyre filler with a 1/4" thread and hoses for a 1/4" thread to go with that air filter combo.

Is static electricity going to be an issue?

hellonearthisman

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#373344 26-Aug-2010 20:42

Static electricity won't be an issue.

xpd

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#373347 26-Aug-2010 20:45

We use a generic air compressor at work for blowing out the machines. No issues whatsoever. Just remember not to keep the air on one spot as itll cause condensation...and thats what you dont want ;)

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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casewindow

310 posts

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#373359 26-Aug-2010 20:55

What brand/model air compressor do you use and where did you get it from?

xpd

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#373367 26-Aug-2010 21:18

Ill have to let you know tomorrow as its at work and Im not :)
I like my job, but not enough to do 15hr shifts ;)

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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hellonearthisman

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#373392 26-Aug-2010 22:42

The one on the Super Cheap Auto would be idea. http://www.supercheapauto.co.nz/products/catalogue.aspx
It's like the one from mitre 10 http://www.mitre10.co.nz/shop/power_tools/air_compressors/gforce_air_compressor_24l_267323.cfm?sid=1...

That style goes for around $150, a bit more than your budget and you still need the water trap/filter to remove any moisture issues.

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CYaBro

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#373419 27-Aug-2010 06:29

I've used standard air compressors for years and never had a problem with moisture, just make sure you blast the air out for a few seconds away from the computer first.
I currently have a $99 unit that I got from Bunnings about 3 years ago.

Opinions are my own and not the views of my employer.

fahrenheit

757 posts

Ultimate Geek

#373570 27-Aug-2010 13:49

Mattress footpump

No moving parts or power needed (other than what your body can produce). Impressive amount of pressure and dirt cheap.

xpd

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#373580 27-Aug-2010 13:55

Ours is a "Rambo" 2HP cheapie... has worked well long as Ive been here (2.5yrs)

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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