They are powerful enough to handle any kind of job task. Because of cast iron tank, they can hold compressed air for a long time. To help you decide which 60 gallon air compressor is the right one for you, we recommend considering below options…
Maximum Air Pressure: It represents how much powerful the air compressor is and the applications it can be used for. You should buy air compressors that offer a maximum air pressure of 150 PSI or higher. Motor Power: Motor is responsible for compressing the air and storing it inside the air tank. As a result, a more powerful motor like a 5 HP one can quickly and easily compress the air into the tank when compared to a weaker 3 HP motor that takes a longer time. CFM Rating: While the air pressure of an air pressure tells you about the pressure inside the air tank, the CFM rating tells you about the air output of an air compressor. It stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. And any air compressor with a CFM rating of 10 CFM or higher is considered to be a powerful air compressor.
Other factors to consider are clearly mentioned in our “Buying Guide”. Read it thoroughly to make a well-informed decision. Based on the same information, we have shortlisted best 60 gallon air compressors that mentioned below for your reference.
6 Best 60 Gallon Air Compressors 2023
Top 60 Gallon Air Compressors: Reviews
1. Quincy Air Compressor
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Quincy is known for making various high-end air compressor options. And we are here with one of the best performing and premium air compressor options offered by Quincy in this article. This Quincy QT-54 air compressor is in the 1st position in this article as it is one of the best performing options out there. You get a maximum air pressure limit of 175 PSI in this air compressor, which is the highest. It even comes with a powerful 5 HP motor that fills the 60-gallon air tank quickly with high-pressure air. And it can offer all of this along with a high CFM rating of 15.7 CFM at 90 PSI and 15.2 CFM at 175 PSI. While this air compressor is certainly on the expensive side, all of these things make it the best performing air compressor present in this article. This vertical air compressor is also highly reliable as it comes with a 3 year warranty. You get this warranty with its industrial-grade US made motor that is quite reliable and spins at 1310 RPM. Best Features:
175 PSI maximum air pressure 5 HP electric motor 7 CFM at 90 PSI and 15.2 CFM at 175 PSI 3 year warranty Industrial-grade motor 1310 RPM motor Under 5 PPM oil carry-over rating Highly reliable and durable
Components:
Air compressor User manual Warranty card
2. Industrial Air Compressor
As per the name, Industrial Air is quite a popular name that makes a lot of air compressors. And we are here with one of the most popular options offered by Industrial Air. The Industrial Air ILA3606056 air compressor is in the 2nd position in this article as it offers decent performance without being highly expensive. This air compressor can provide a maximum air pressure limit of 155 PSI. You get this along with a 3.7 HP motor that offers a decent speed for filing its 60-gallon air tank. Even though this is a comparatively affordable option, you still get a 2 year warranty with it. Another great thing about this Industrial Air air compressor is that it comes with a CFM rating of 13.4 CFM at 40 PSI and 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI. And this makes it quite similar to more expensive options in terms of power. Even though this is quite powerful, you get UL and CSA safety standards with it which makes it quite safe. Best Features:
155 PSI maximum air pressure 7 HP electric motor 4 CFM at 40 PSI and 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI 2 year warranty UL and CSA safety standards 12 inch cast iron balanced flywheel Equipped with pressure gauge
Components:
Air compressor User manual Warranty card
3. California Air Tools Air Compressor
California Air Tools specializes in developing air tools that have useful features and provide outstanding performance. The brand is regarded highly for its reliable customer service. California Air Tools’ air compressor is powered by two 2HP motors that deliver a powerful performance. With this power, you get 10.60 CFM at 90 PSI and 12.60 CFM at 40 PSI. The air compressor comes with a cord that you have to connect to a power outlet. Despite the air compressor using 2 powerful motors, the tool offers an ultra-quiet operation. It only generates a sound of 75 decibels. You do not have to pour oil on the pump. Hence, there is no maintenance cost involved. The motors have a long duty cycle and can run continuously for long hours. The piston pump has a life cycle of more than 3000 hours after which it starts to wear. The air compressor comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. Best Features
125 PSI maximum air pressure Powered by 4HP electric motors 10.60 CFM at 90 PSI and 12.60 CFM at 40 PSI Ultra-quiet operation with 75 decibels Oil-free pump 3000 hours lifecycle piston pump 1-year limited warranty
Components
Air compressor unit User manual Warranty card
4. Campbell Hausfeld Vertical 2 Stage Air Compressor
Campbell Hausfeld has provided a complete line of air compressors, welders, inflators, nailers, air tools, and accessories for several decades. Their 2-stage air compressor is specially designed for handling a wide range of jobs that include painting furniture, heavy-duty nailing, rotating wheels, grinding welds and others. It is equipped with 230 volts and 3.7 horsepower heavy-duty motor that ensures maximum pressure of 175 PSI and 6.9 SCFM which is helpful for completing most of the tasks within less amount of time. This air compressor also has quick recovery time so you can spend more time on the task and less time waiting for the compressor. It is quite durable as it has 5,000 hours of product life. As it runs cooler, there are less chances of air compressor overheating. Best Features:
175 PSI max pressure Heavy-duty induction motor Handles a wide range of jobs It is oil-lubricated Quick recovery time Longer lifespan No overheating
Components:
Air compressor Warranty card User manual
5. PowerMate Air Compressor
PowerMate is yet another famous brand that is known for making air compressors. And the air compressor by PowerMate present in this article is quite similar to the Industrial Air option mentioned earlier. Just like the Industrial Air compressor, you get a maximum air pressure limit of 155 PSI in this air compressor. You get this along with a 3.7 HP motor that is considered to be decently powerful. As a result, the 60-gallon air tank of this air compressor gets filled with a high-pressure air of 155 PSI in a short period of time. Even though it offers decent performance, it is a highly reliable option out there since it provides a 2 year warranty. As for the CFM rating of this air compressor, it can offer 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI. And this is quite decent for most applications of an air compressor. Another great thing about this air compressor is that it offers a cast iron twin cylinder pump. You also get 12 inch cast iron balanced flywheel in it. Since both of these are made out of cast iron, they are quite durable. Best Features:
155 PSI maximum air pressure 5 HP electric motor 5 CFM at 90 PSI 2 year warranty Cast iron construction 12-inch balanced flywheel Twin-cylinder pump design Vertical air compressor design
Components:
Air compressor User manual Warranty card
6. Ingersoll Rand SS5 60 Gallon Air Compressor
For over 100 years, Ingersoll has stood out in the in the industrial market for being innovative. Their products are well-known for being durable, reliable and highly efficient. Their 60 gallon air compressor is specially designed for all kinds of environments. It is suitable for everyone from DIY individuals to professionals. It comes with 100% continuous duty, high pressure operation up to 135 psig and vertical ASME receiver tank. It comes fully-assembled and pre-wired. The operation of this air compressor is quite easy. When safety instructions, it comes with manual thermal overload protection. It uses synthetic lubricant which increases the efficiency. Compared to petroleum based, it is capable of performing 4 times more. Best Features:
Durable cast iron construction 100% continuous duty cycle Powerful electric motor Quite in operation Advanced safety features Easy to change filter
Components:
Air compressor Warranty case Instruction manual
How To Choose The Best 60 Gallon Air Compressor?
A 60-gallon compressor is powerful enough to power up even the most demanding power tools. In fact, it can power up multiple tools at once. To make sure you choose the best, you have to consider several factors. Below, we have provided them with detail description.
1. Air Compressor Types
It is the first thing to consider while purchasing an air compressor. Based on number of times they are compressed, they are categorized into two types – single- and two-stage compressors.
Single Stage Air Compressor
They are compressed once which is why they are named as single-stage air compressors. It means that – this compressor will go through air taking process, compressing it single time and sending the compressed air to the storage. Power of difference is also other factor that differentiates these two types. The compression of single-stage compressor is 120psi which makes them suitable for home use, simple applications and light work. They are useful for stapling, sawing and nailing.
Two-Stage Air Compressor
As the name implies, air is compressed two times. With this type of compressor – air is compressed, sent to another area for another compressor and then sent to storage. Two-stage compressors have 170psi of compression, making them suitable for auto-repairs and industrial shops. Because of the higher psi, is they are generally used for light industrial works.
2. Maximum Air Pressure (PSI)
It represents the capacity or amount of air present inside the air compressor. It is measured in pounds per square inch of pressure (PSI). Single stage models come with 125 to 155 psi. So, they are suitable for residential pneumatic tools. Two-stage air compressor models come with 165 to 175psi range, making them suitable for industrial purposes.
3. CFM Rating or Air Flow Rate
Cubic feet per meter (CFM) refers to the amount of compressed air pumped in a minute at certain speed, pressure and temperature. This is an important factor to consider for determining which air compressor works best for your requirements. In the market, you can find air compressor models with 11.5CFM at 90 PSI and 13.4 CFM PSI. Some of the high-end models come with highest values like 1.57 CFM at 90 PSI. Just like any other tool, higher the rating, better will be the tool efficiency. However, if you want to calculate based on your requirement, then consider the below information. Every power tool has specific CFM requirement. Some tools need constant power (like sanders and grinder) so, they have high CFM requirement. Some tools require sporadic power (nail guns) so, they have less CFM requirement. To determine how much CFM rating you require – consider the tool with higher CFM rating and multiply with 1.5 (buffer). This will give you the exact CFM rating you should look for in an air compressor. But if you are going to use multiple tools at a time, then – you have to add up all the CFM requirements and multiply it with buffer. Note: Extra buffer value is added to ensure the air compressor doesn’t get overloaded. If the air compressor gets overloaded, then it can reduce its lifespan. Below, we have provided basic CFM requirements of some power tools for your reference.
4. Motor Power (HP)
It represents the level of power an engine can generate. Higher HP rating means, powerful performance by the engine. 60 gallon air compressors come with motor power from 1.5 to 6.5 HP. For quick air filling, you have to choose powerful motor. Motor power 5HP or higher is considered the best option for a powerful 60-gallon air compressor.
5. Duty Cycle
All air compressors come with a duty cycle rating. It is referred to the length of time that compressor can be used at 100 PSI and ambient temperature of 72 degrees. It is usually expressed in percentage form. One cycle includes running and resting time. Typically, duty cycles are expressed as below…
10% Duty Cycle – 1 Minute On / 9 Minutes Off 20% Duty Cycle – 2 Minutes On / 8 Minutes Off 30% Duty Cycle – 3 Minutes On / 7 Minutes Of 50% Duty Cycle – 5 Minutes On / 5 Minutes Off 100% Duty Cycle – Continuous Duty
There can be minor changes in the time duration, if you are running it in extreme temperatures. However, these changes are rarely noticeable.
6. Power Source
The power source of air compressors is available in two forms – gasoline and electrical. Electrical compressors are considered safer and easier to operate and weigh less. Gas air compressors are flexible and compact so you can transport them as required. Electric compressors should not be used for outdoor purposes, especially on wet areas as there is high risk of getting electrocuted or shocked. Gas compressors should not be used indoors as it releases toxic fumes which is a health hazard. Compared to electric models, gas powered compressors are portable as they are not tethered to any outlet. However, they are costlier to maintain or run. You need to re-fill the fuel tank regularly to run the compressor. There is also a risk of gas spills which is a dangerous thing. Electric compressors are not portable which can be very useful if you are in a known location (personal workshop or industrial worksite). They are more efficient and cheaper to run than gas-powered models.
7. Voltage and Power Requirements
60 gallon air compressor has a powerful motor so you have to plug it into a wall socket to provide enough power to it. Powering an air compressor depends on voltage it needs – single or three-phase. In residential areas, you will mostly have single phase. Three phase is mostly available in industrial settings. It is considered more efficient and results in less wear and tear of the motor. As voltage and phase are different from place to place, you have to consult the local codes and electrician before purchasing the air compressor. Most of the air compressors used at homes are either single-phase 120 volt, 230 volt or three-phase 222 volt. 230 volt motors are efficient and powerful than 222 or 120 volt motors.
8. Oil and Oil-Free Compressors
Lubrication is an important thing that ensures proper working condition of a compressor. It is available in two different options – one that needs regularly oiled and one that oil-free option. Oiled air compressors are usually efficient, durable and quite. However, if proper lubrication is not applied regularly, then the joints can lead wear down and stop functioning ultimately. So, you have to make sure the oil levels are appropriate for smooth operation. Being heavy-duty options, you have to lubricate them regularly which will also make them last longer. When it comes to oil-free air compressors, they are compact and light in weight. They provide moisture free air which is important if you using the compressor in laboratories or hospitals. It is suitable for light works like tools for spray painting. Among the two types of air compressor, oil-free ones are a bit noisier.
9. Tank Style
Though most of the 60-gallon air compressors have similar size, but storage or working space taken by them is different. Because some of the air compressors have vertical tanks while others come with horizontal tanks (which occupy more space). If you have a small garage or workshop, you have to consider this factor seriously.
10. Weight
60 gallon air compressor can weigh from 240 lbs to 400 lbs based on the model. If you want something small, then go for a portable one. However, if you are going to use it for stationary work, then choose larger and durable air compressor.
11. Safety Standards
Air compressors have high pressure inside them. So, it is important make sure they are secure and safe. For this, you can consider the safety standards of the air compressor. Some air compressors don’t come with such standards. They are mostly seen in high end and good quality air compressors. Some of the safety standards available with air compressors are UL and CSA certifications. Choose a model with these safety standards for peace of mind.
12. Noise
As 60 gallon air compressors are mostly used for heavy duty works, it is obvious that they generate a lot of noise. Apart from that, as the air compressor gets older, there are high chances of producing more noise. If you are doing only light work, then they may generate less noise. Noise levels produced by the compressor are usually provided with the product specifications. Choose a model that generated less noise as they help with more friendly working environment.
13. Other Features
Stainless steel finger valves will eliminate the corrosion, providing long service life. Splash lubrication provides reduced initial purchase price. One piece connecting rods will remove the internal adjustment. Low-oil monitoring device will prevent low-oil damage. For better cooling and extended life, separate cast cylinders with intercoolers is beneficial.
14. Accessories
Some brands provide accessories that improve the air compressor system performance. Some of them include lubricators, replacement pumps, extension cords, gauges, extra air tanks and air hoses.
15. Price Range
60-gallon air compressors can range between $500 to $2000 based on type, number of pneumatic tools it can power, features, vendor, brand and materials used.
16. Durability and Warranty
As air compressor is used for powering up power tools, it has to be reliable and durable. Before purchasing the 60 gallon compressors, make sure it is made up of high quality materials as it ensures working flawlessly without any issues. Most of the air compressors come with cast iron which is strong enough to withstand high air pressure for a long time. Warranty is another way to know the reliability of a product. Most of the 60 gallon air compressors comes with 2 years warranty or higher.
What are the advantages of 60-gallon air compressor?
They don’t produce any noise. So, you can use it wherever you want without or family members. These machines are quite easy to set up. They deliver almost instant performance as soon as you turn them on. It has maximum efficiency of 240 volts which makes it possible to handle all the tasks easily. They can also be used for tasks like spray guns, ratchets, impacts and hammers. These machines have adequate power to handle more than a single air tool or device. It comes with specially designed and patented pump.
Conclusion
If you use a lot of pneumatic tools or fill tires for industrial usage, then having a powerful air compressor is quite important. While there are various sizes available out there, a 60-gallon air compressor can store a lot of air at once. Therefore, we have mentioned some of the best 60-gallon air compressor options in this article. But if you are still not able to choose the best one for you, here are some of our recommendations:
The Quincy QT-54 is one of the most potent and premium 60-gallon air compressors available out there. While it is undoubtedly an expensive option, it offers a maximum air pressure of 175 PSI along with a motor of 5 HP power. As a result, it can provide a CFM rating of 15.7 CFM at 90 PSI. You even get a 3 year warranty with it which makes it highly reliable. Although if you want a slightly cheaper 60-gallon air compressor for industrial usage, you can go with the Industrial Air ILA3606056. This one offers a maximum air pressure rating of 155 PSI and a decently powerful motor of 3.7 HP. You even get a 2 year warranty with this compressor that provides a CFM rating of 13.4 at 40 PSI. The PowerMate VC PLA3706056 is another similar option that also offers 155 PSI maximum air pressure without being highly expensive. You also get a 3.7 HP motor in this air compressor along with a 2 year warranty. And it even offers a similar 11.5 CFM rating at 90 PSI, just like the Industrial Air option mentioned previously.
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