There will be a wire running from the fridge compressor to the inside of the fridge – it goes to the thermostat and powers the light inside the fridge – again the longer the lenght that you salvage the better. Once you have the compressor running you need to find a way to securely attach a fitting to it’s output tube. Of course you can just use a clamp and put a lenght of air line onto it, but that’s not the best method – especially if you plan to use the compressor at more than 10-15 bar.
A bit of googling around reveals an apparently simple solution of replacing the standard compressor of an air compressor unit with a fridge compressor. If like me, you bought one from a professional fridge recycling outfit, the compressor may come with all of its ports welded shut. After many years of reliable operation I recently decided to do a few upgrades, resolving all of the ‘bothers’ I’ve had with this air compressor.
With a little ingenuity and a willingness to compromise on performance, you might find this ultra-quiet, ultra-cheap air compressor a welcome way to keep the peace in your shop. ‘s design sort of requires you to buy an air tank, and the easiest way to do that might be just to buy the compressor in the first place. Fridge compressors are a natural starting point for air compressor builds, like this fire extinguisher based design, or this high-pressure tandem compressor.
Built a remarkably quiet compressor using parts salvaged from an old fridge. While performance of the original setup was good, [Eric] desired a compressor with more capacity for his resin casting activities. A 15 gallon air tank was sourced from a damaged Craftsman brand compressor, and pressed into service.
Homemade air compressor made from an old refrigerator. It had what looked like a very old cast iron splash lubricated compressor head, with a newer 3/4 hp motor running it via a vee belt reduction, for a final compressor speed of about 600 rpm. Be careful using a refrigerator compressor for an air compressor.
make air compressor out old refrigerator Related Question:
How much pressure does a refrigerator compressor make?
A 100 – 300 watt fridge compressor can deliver 0.7 – 1 CFM of air and can reach pressures over 500 psi.
How much vacuum can a refrigerator compressor pull?
A fridge will pull down to 20-50 mbar if it has a piston pump. The best compressors are found in large fridges/freezers and air-conditioning units that pull down to 1 mbar.
What is the average life of a refrigerator compressor?
Although plans for a replacement should start around eight years of service, a well-maintained compressor can reach to ten years and beyond. As it ages, efficiency loss is gradual at first.
Can I use automotive R134a in a refrigerator?
In short, NO! R 134A is designed for the high demands of an automobile AC and cannot be used on refrigerators due to pressure differences. Refrigerators generally utilize R22, R32 or 410A-based coolants as their cooling agent.
What pressure should R134a run at?
For normal running pressures in the R134a system, at the lowest temperature, the coil should run at 22 pounds per square inch that is 45-20, 25 degrees Fahrenheit. While at the highest temperature it should be 57 pounds per square inches that is 60-20,40 degrees Fahrenheit.
What can I do with an old compressor?
Salvage the old compressor for scrap. Many clients will separate the metals for better scrap value; steel, copper (electric motor), iron (pump), etc. Reuse the receiver/tank as additional air storage.
Can you turn a compressor into a vacuum pump?
Many air compressors make good vacuum pumps if you can find the air intake, enclose it, and attach an appropriate hose or fitting.
Why does water go in at the bottom of a condenser?
Q: Why does it matter whether the water enters the condenser at the top or from the bottom? If water enters from the bottom of the condenser, it will always be completely filled with cold water which ensures efficient cooling. During distillation, vapors are formed in the heated distillation flask.
Does putting ice behind a fan work?
According to the GHI, placing a bucket of ice in front of a fan as a homemade AC unit is just as effective. ‘As the air passes over the ice it will be chilled and will circulate refreshingly cold air around the room,’ they explain.
How can I make an air conditioner at home without electricity?
The technique is simple – cut plastic bottles in half (make sure the plastic bottles do not have a wide mouth) and then mount them on a board in a grid like pattern. Voila! AC ready!
Can a fridge last 30 years?
A refrigerator can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. The older your unit is, the more it may cost to repair it. Eventually the cost of repairs will start to outweigh the cost of a replacement.
Why do fridge compressors fail?
Too Little or Too Much Refrigerant In the event that the amount of refrigerant in the system is not perfect, it could create too much pressure or strain and lead to compressor failure. Too little refrigerant is most likely caused by an insufficient charge from the last technician, or from a refrigerant leak.
Should I replace my 20 year old refrigerator?
Check the Refrigerator’s Age A typical refrigerator has a 10- to 20-year lifespan. The longer you have had your refrigerator, the greater the potential repair cost, says The Money Pit. If the refrigerator is less than eight years old, consider repair. If the refrigerator is more than 15 years old, consider replacement.
