what spec's are needed for a compressor to use a floor nailer using 2 inch cleats rated at 6.2 scfm

by Olav Kappert
(Canada)

I am a DIYer.

I have a floor nailer that uses 2 inch cleats. The tool states that it requires 6.36 scfm @ 90 PSI.

If I purchase an air compressor with the following specs: (8 gallon, 1.1 hp, 3400 rpm, 4.3 scfm@40, 3.5 scfm@90), will it be sufficient to do the job ?

Since I am no expert at this, I assume I might be nailing a maximum of 4-5 nails per minute (maybe less).

Can a smaller unit do the job too ?

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Bill says...

If we go on just comparing specs, then no, the compressor won't do the job.

However, nailers use a blast of air, and then don't use air again until the nail gun trigger is pulled. If that trigger pull is intermittent enough, then the compressor might do.

People that acquire compressors also like to add air tools, and this is a pretty small compressor to consider owning if you plan on using any air tools on a regular basis.

You might want to read the page about sizing an air compressor, linked from the Nav bar.

Cheers,

Bill