01-25-2015, 05:33 AM
Nice purchase, Ed.
Like the others indicated, yes, it is normal for that line to get hot during use, and not just during break in. It is common for the line from the compressor to the tank to have cooling fins. They help to cool the air before it gets to the tank, where it cools even further and gives up it's moisture, most of which ends up in the bottom of the tank where we can drain it. During the winter months here in Minnesota it is common to see less moisture in the tank, due to the lower humidity. During the summer months you will swear it puts out more water than air!
I am fortunate enough to have two compressors, a 6 HP, 60 gallon unit in the garage (announces its presence to half the neighborhood every time it runs) and a little 3/4 HP unit for my not yet finished basement shop. The little unit is very quiet, and is all I will need for blowing chips out of the occasional blind hole and for running a Fogbuster style coolant setup. I never use compressed air to clean my lathe or mill; that job is reserved for the shop vac.
Like the others indicated, yes, it is normal for that line to get hot during use, and not just during break in. It is common for the line from the compressor to the tank to have cooling fins. They help to cool the air before it gets to the tank, where it cools even further and gives up it's moisture, most of which ends up in the bottom of the tank where we can drain it. During the winter months here in Minnesota it is common to see less moisture in the tank, due to the lower humidity. During the summer months you will swear it puts out more water than air!
I am fortunate enough to have two compressors, a 6 HP, 60 gallon unit in the garage (announces its presence to half the neighborhood every time it runs) and a little 3/4 HP unit for my not yet finished basement shop. The little unit is very quiet, and is all I will need for blowing chips out of the occasional blind hole and for running a Fogbuster style coolant setup. I never use compressed air to clean my lathe or mill; that job is reserved for the shop vac.
![[Image: coffee2.gif]](https://www.machinistgazette.com/Smileys/fantasticsmileys/coffee2.gif)
Terry
Making stuff with old machines.