Introduction to Airbrushing
with Eric Lalonde
Air Source and Compressors
There are 4 options available:
Propel (don’t use it) has pressure drop as soon as you start using.
Inert Gasses CO2 being the most common. However, needing to be refilled from time to time can get expensive. They are a great source of clean air.
Storage tank This usually will have some type of regulator.
Compressor (Get one with at least 30 psi minimum) this will work with any airbrush you have or will have.
Infrequent User:
You don’t need to go expensive if you are only spraying infrequently. (Once a month)
One could go with a diaphragm only compressor, no tank needed.Frequent User:
Is someone who uses there airbrush once or twice a week, or on a daily basis.
You will want something a little more industrious, something that will last.
Compressor with a tank is a good option here, which also creates a lot less stress on the compressor. Buying a compressor from an airbrush store may not be the most cost effective, airbrush companies don’t make compressors, they make airbrushes. They will indorse a compressor with their name if you want to keep everything the same. But this is really not needed because your airbrush will work just fine from any clean air source that delivers 10-30psi. Airbrushes will work with any compressor.
Silent Compressors require oiling for their moving parts.
Diaphragm Compressors require 0 maintenance.
The noise level is being designed out of diaphragm compressors making them run silent.
Reverberation is taken out by the airline length.
Hoses
4 options available:Vinyl hoses- rate up there with Propel, good for beginner. Not recommended.
Recoil hose- is great for small work spaces, and coils up to stay out of your way. (Rated 60psi)
Clear transparent hose: Great for high humidity areas where moisture is a problem. Easily detect water before it reaches your model, and also used a lot for cake decorating and bakery industry.
World Champion is the:
Braided hose: Will handle just about anything. (Rated at over 100psi) This is the most commonly used hose available which include inline moisture traps and quick disconnects.
