Hi

I think the refillable tank you describe is a method used by some airbrush artists but not as you describe it, "a tank you take to the garage and fill with air". That way leads to all sorts of issues anyway. Risk of too much pressure and the thing explodes.

The ones used are special tanks and refilled with gas (I can't remember which gas, but obviously a safe non toxic one) by technical staff who know how much pressure to fill it to. These I've read are quite large, something like a welders gas bottle or scuba divers air tank and last, depending on use, for up to a year. Refilling is not free.

Years ago I know that I saw a crude airbrush set-up used by somebody connected to a car tyre inner tube. Of course most tyres these days are tubeless, so you don't see them much anymore. As kids we'd go down the river with them as floats. I can't image the regulation of air or it's quality was much good either.

A good fairly silent compressor is easily brought these days. Go for the type with a air tank and regulator to ensure constant flow without pulsing.

Alan

Just buy a hobby compressor with a good pressure gauge & water trap.

Hey Chad,

This has been a frequent topic in the past – you might want to try the search function for old threads.

Anyway, I use this one – got it at Wally’s for $50.00 US about 5-6 years ago – and still going strong.



Sears, Harbor Freight, Northern, Tractor Store, etc… all have similar size & types. A little loud but only runs / refills 2-3 times during average paint job. Will also fill your tyres, run small nailer, etc…