Best air compressor for Cerakote

Cerakote is known for its durability and resistance to scratches and corrosion.

To properly apply Cerakote, you need an air compressor that can provide enough power to atomize the coating material. The best air compressor for Cerakote will have at least 2 CFM and a maximum pressure of 90 – 150 PSI (pounds per square inch).

To solve the problem of the best air compressor for Cerakote, we’ve gathered a list of the Top 5 air compressors for Cerakote, based on our research, testing, and user reviews, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Top 5 Picks: Best Air Compressor for Cerakote

CRAFTSMAN (CMEC6150K) air compressor – Top Pick

Product Description:

The CRAFTSMAN air compressor is a great option to consider if you’re in the market for a top-quality air compressor. This 150 psi unit is perfect for all sorts of applications, including painting a large area, powering heavy-duty air tools, inflation, and more.

The best part about this air compressor is that it requires no maintenance, so you can use it for years without worrying about oil changes or tune-ups. Plus, the 6-gallon pancake design means that this unit is highly portable, so you can take it wherever you go.

Personally, we love the recovery time on this pancake air compressor. Its 2.6 SCFM at 90 psi allows for quick recovery time, which means during Cerakote projects, you will not be waiting long for the air compressor to recover and provide more air. It’s one of the best in an air compressor for this size.

As a bonus, the air compressor comes with a 13-piece accessory kit so you can start your projects immediately. The kit includes a 25′ air hose, an air chuck, a tire gauge, and more.

We didn’t find any serious drawback in this air compressor except the noise, which is common in all air compressors.

Overall, if you’re looking for an air compressor that can handle all your Cerakote needs, the CRAFTSMAN is an excellent option.

WEN 2289T Oil-Free Air Compressor – Premium Choice

Product Description:

The WEN 2289T is a powerful air compressor perfect for Cerakote applications. It features 4.0 CFM at 90 PSI and 5.0 CFM at 40 PSI, making it ideal for spraying large areas or multiple coats.

This powerful compressor has a 10-gallon tank size that provides plenty of air for extended use without being too bulky or difficult to transport.

It also comes with a 1/4-inch NPT quick coupler that allows you to connect your airbrush or spray gun to the air compressor. For a worry-free experience, the WEN 2289T comes with a two-year warranty, protecting you against any unforeseen problems or defects.

Technical Feature of this 10 Gallon Air Compressor:

Two pressure gauges

The unit features two pressure gauges. This gives you full control over the pressure in the tank, and it also helps you monitor the progress of your work.

The 15A motor

How does the 15A motor affect the performance of this unit? It is a high-powered motor that can deliver 4.0 CFM at 90 PSI.

It means that the compressor can fill up the 10-gallon tank quickly. In other words, you can work continuously for a long time without having to stop to let the compressor catch up.

Drain Valve

Is the drain valve easy to reach? Yes, it is placed at the bottom of the unit, so you can easily drain the tank after use.

Overall, the WEN 2289T air compressor is great for those needing a high-quality and powerful unit.

Dewalt DWFP55126 – Pancake Air Compressor for Cerakote

Product Description

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly air compressor for cerakote, look no further than the Dewalt DWFP55126 pancake air compressor. This unit is designed for portability and easy use and delivers a maximum of 165 PSI.

Cerakote requires a certain amount of air pressure and volume, which this air compressor is designed to provide. It features a high-quality 6.0-gallon tank that will give you plenty of air to work with.

It has a noise level of 78.5 dBA, which is not the quietest air compressor, but it’s still relatively quiet and won’t be too obnoxious when you’re working.

The Dewalt DWFP55126 pancake air compressor also features a console cover that protects the controls from dust and debris.

This unit also has a 2.6 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump, which is more than enough to complete the small job quickly and efficiently.

You can also rest assured that this unit is high-quality and reliable, since it is backed by a 1-year warranty.

Technical Features of this Air Compressor:

Two universal couplers

What are the two universal couplers for? The two universal couplers allow you to connect two different air tools simultaneously. It is a great feature if you need to use more than one air tool for your project.

Cord wrap

This unit features a cord wrap, which is a great feature if you’re looking for an air compressor that is easy to store and transport. The cord wrap will keep the power cord tidy and organized, and it’s also a great safety feature.

Outlet tube

This unit’s outlet tube is placed in the front, which is a great design feature. It means you won’t have to worry about the air hose getting in the way while you’re working.

High flow regulator

How does the high flow regulator work? The high flow regulator maintains consistent air pressure, regardless of the air demand. This is an excellent feature for those looking for an air compressor to handle high-demand jobs.

Overall, this cerakote air compressor is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable unit for their cerakote projects.

Makita MAC5200 air compressor – Powerful Air Compressor for Cerakote

Specifications:

• Power: 3.0 Horsepower
• Max Weight: 75 pounds
• Amp Capacity: 15 Amps
• AirFlow: Five CFM
• Warranty: One year on all parts

Product Description:

Makita MAC5200 air compressor is one of the most popular air compressor for cerakote. This air compressor is cast iron, making it robust and long-lasting.

It has a powerful 3.0 HP pump that is oil-lubricated. This size of air compressor is rare to find oil-lubricated, even with lower-cost models.

This air compressor pump is capable of delivering a powerful CFM (cubic feet per minute) output. It produces 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI. Not only cerakote but almost every air tool will work smoothly with this power. You’ll appreciate this feature if you are looking for an air compressor capable of handling large projects.

Makita Mac5200 comes with industrial air filters. These filters help remove impurities from the air, which can damage the finish of your cerakote projects.

If you’re wondering how to change the pressure, this air compressor has an easy-to-use regulator. You can quickly change the pressure without any difficulty. This regulator is also large, so you can easily see the pressure setting.

When we look at the tank, it has a 5-gallon capacity. This may seem small, but with continuous airflow and a powerful motor, it’s a good size for cerakote projects. The air compressor will have no problem delivering a consistent air flow to your cerakote gun.

The interesting thing about this compressor is that it comes with a 30 days refund or replacement policy. This means you can return the compressor if you are unsatisfied with it.

Technical Features of the Air Compressor:

Thermal overload.

Are you worried about the air compressor overloading and shutting down in the middle of your project? You don’t need to worry about this Makita air compressor.

It has thermal overload protection that protect the Makita 5200 from overhaeating.

Pump oil level sight glass. 

How do you know when it’s time to change the pump oil? Makita has made it easy to check the oil level with the oil level sight glass. This feature is essential because it’s important to change the oil regularly to extend the life of your air compressor.

Built-in storage compartment 

After buying an air compressor, one of the main concerns is where to store it. Makita has addressed this issue by incorporating a storage compartment into the design of the air compressor. It is very helpful for accessories and air fitting.

Convenient oil drain

Many air compressors on the market require you to tip them over to change the oil. Makita has made it easier for you by including a convenient oil drain. You can quickly and easily change the oil without tipping the compressor over.

Why we recommend it:

This air compressor is our top pick because it offers excellent value for the money. It’s durable, has a high output, and comes with an automotive-style air filter. This is the one for you if you’re looking for an air compressor that can handle large projects.

Porter-Cable C2002-WK – Portable Air Compressor for Cerakote

Looking for a powerful air compressor that is easy to start in cold weather? Look no further than the Porter-Cable C2002-WK. This air compressor has a low amp 120V motor that makes it easy to start in cold weather.

The porter-cable air compressor is specifically design for small projects and hobbyists who need a lightweight and portable air compressor that can handle high volumes of air.

You will never have to worry about your projects being delayed because of low pressure with this air compressor. With 120 PSI cut-in pressure, you can be sure that this machine will always have enough power to get the job done.

The C2002-WK air compressor has a 6-gallon tank and produces 2.6 SCFM at 90 psi. This is the same power as the Craftsman and Dewalt 6-gallon air compressors we reviewed above. The only difference is that this Porter-Cable air compressor is only 30 lb.

This makes it the perfect choice for cerakote, Gundam art paintings, spraying texture on drywall, and upholstery stapling work because these work needs an air compressor that is both powerful and portable.

This best portable air compressor for cerakote includes a high flow regulator and quick-connect coupler for easy operation. You’ll also get access to a 13-piece accessory kit that includes a 25′ nylon hose, blow gun, air chuck, and more.

Technical Features of the Product:

Durable Water drain valve 

How often have you emptied your air compressor tank because of water build-up? With the C2002-WK, you will never have to worry about that again. The durable water drain valve is designed for easy maintenance and extended compressor life.

Pancake-style tank

Are you tired of lugging around a heavy air compressor? The C2002-WK has a pancake-style tank that is only 30 lb. This makes it one of the lightest and most portable air compressor on the market.

BILT HARD – Ultra Quiet Air Compressor for Cerakote

Specifications:

• Tank Size: 10 Gallon
• Horsepower rating: 2 hp
• Weight: 70 dB
• AirFlow: 4 CFM
• Material: Alloy Steel

Built Hard is a newly growing air compressor manufacturing company. Various air compressors are available with different features, but this one is specially made for cerakote finishes.

It has a big 10-gallon tank that provides enough power and air to finish your cerakote projects.

With 175 psi, it provides the best air pressure for cerakote spraying. The pressure is adjustable, so you can control the amount of air that comes out. The compressor also has an automatic shut-off feature which protects it from overworking.

The airflow is very important when choosing an air compressor. This one has a great air flow rate which will help you finish your projects quickly.

With a great air flow rate of 4.0 cfm at 90 psi, you can also use it for other purposes such as blowing out water lines.

This best air compressor for air rifles is built to last. It has heavy-duty construction and a powder-coated finish. The company also offers a 1-year warranty so you can be sure that your investment is protected.

The BILT HARD air compressor is a high-powered, yet an ultra-quiet machine that is perfect for any auto shop or home garage. It is a perfect choice for those looking for an air compressor that can provide a perfect finish for their cerakote projects. Best of all, it is CSA certified, so you know it is built to last.

Technical Features of the product:

Dual piston 

This air compressor is designed with dual pistons. Dual pistons are two separate pistons that simultaneously push the air out of the air compressor.

With dual pistons, there is no need to adjust the output pressure. Dual-piston compressors are more powerful than single-piston compressors. They are also quieter.

1750 RPM motor

The BILT HARD air compressor has a 1750 RPM motor. This is a high-powered motor that is designed for heavy-duty use. The motor is also designed to run quietly.

Safety valve

The safety valve is an extra piece attached to the air compressor to protect the motor from overheating. When the air compressor is turned on, the safety valve opens to let the airflow.

The safety valve closes automatically once the air compressor is turned off. If there are any leaks inside the air compressor, the air will leak out, and the motor will be protected.

Buying Guide for Best Air Compressor for Cerakote

Cerakote work needs an air compressor that can provide a high air volume at a consistent pressure.

There are different types of air compressors for different purposes. So, before buying an air compressor for cerakote spraying, it’s important to know your needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing an air compressor for cerakote spraying:

Tank capacity

How much air does your compressor need to hold? This is important because a larger tank will allow you to work for longer without having to stop and wait for the compressor to refill. Remember, the larger the tank, the more expensive the compressor will be.

In our recent article about an air compressor for spraying painting, we talked about how a 6 – 10 gallon tank is adequate for most small to medium projects.

But if you are planning to work on large projects, you might need a tank of at least 10 gallons or more tank.

However, a larger tank will also make the compressor heavier and more difficult to move around. If you plan on doing a lot of cerakote work, moving a larger compressor might be worth the extra effort.

Output and PSI

Why do you need to know the output and PSI of an air compressor? The output is the volume of air that the compressor can produce and is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). The PSI (pounds per square inch) is the amount of pressure that the air is being delivered at.

For cerakote spraying, you need an air compressor that can deliver a high volume of air (at least 2 CFM) at a consistent pressure (between 90 and 150 PSI).

A higher PSI will result in a smoother finish, but it is more difficult to control. If you are just starting, we recommend choosing an air compressor with a lower PSI (around 90) to get a feel for how much pressure you need.

However, if you’re a beginner, you might want to start with a compressor with an adjustable output to experiment with different PSI levels.

Portable or not

It depends on your needs. A portable air compressor will be a good choice if you plan on only using the compressor for small projects. For optimal mobility, choose a portable air compressor that has wheels and a handle.

On the other hand, a stationary compressor would be a better choice if you want to use your air compressor for different purposes, such as impact guns, painting cars, or general carpentry work.

Portable air compressors are usually lighter and smaller, making them easier to store and transport.

But they also have smaller tanks, so you will have to stop and refill the compressor more often. However, portable air compressors are usually less expensive than stationary ones.

Durability

It doesn’t mean that the machine will last forever when talking about durability. But a durable air compressor should be able to withstand regular use and abuse.

Product durability depends on many factors like build quality, materials used, and of course, brand. So when looking for a durable air compressor, it is important to check the product reviews to see what other people say about the product.

Also, check the warranty and see how long it is for. One more thing we want to add here is extra features.

Are you thinking extra features means we’re talking about some bonus accessories that come with the air compressor? No, that’s wrong. We’re talking about how the machine is built.

Are the elements protected by it?? Is there built-in storage for the power cord? How easy is it to use and maintain?

So overall, the durable air compressor should have features that protect the compressor from damage, such as an automatic shut-off feature, thermal overload protection, and durable build quality.

When buying an air compressor, you want to ensure that it is durable and will last a long time. The best way to do this is to read online reviews and see what other people say about the compressor.

Price

Of course, every customer wants to know how much the product they buy costs. But when it comes to air compressors, the price is not always an accurate quality indicator.

Many factors affect the price of an air compressor, such as brand, features, size, and more.

So, when looking for an air compressor, it is important to compare the prices and features of different air compressors before purchasing one. Usually, an air compressor between $200 to $500 is a good compressor and will fulfill most of your needs.

What Equipment Do I Need to Start Applying Cerakote?

If you’re new to cerakote, you might be wondering what equipment you need to get started. To start applying Cerakote, you’ll need an air compressor, an HVLP spray gun, and a water trap.

The air compressor should provide a minimum of 2 CFM at 90 PSI. The HVLP spray gun must be equipped with a 1.0mm nozzle. And the water trap will help remove any moisture from the air before reaching the gun. With this equipment, you’ll be able to apply Cerakote evenly and smoothly, ensuring a professional finish.

Final Thoughts on Air Compressor for Cerakote                                 

Choosing the appropriate air compressor is critical for getting the best possible result on your projects. We reviewed five of the best air compressors for Cerakote in this post to help you find the best one for your needs.

We have also included a buyer’s guide to help you with what to look for when purchasing an air compressor.

We hope this article has been helpful and that you will find the perfect air compressor for your needs.

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