The idea of a cordless system for pneumatic tools might seem a bit counter – intuitive, especially with the arrival of M18 framing nailers and other cordless solutions. However, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Air Compressor 2840 – 20 ($349, bare tool) fills a unique niche. It could potentially make some pneumatic tools nearly obsolete, yet many still have functional pneumatic tools and aren’t ready for a large – scale switch. This compressor is set to be released in June 2020, and here are some key aspects to consider.
What Can You Do with 2 Gallons & 1.2 CFM
The M18 air compressor stands out as the only cordless air compressor with dual – piston pumps. It’s designed as a portable jobsite air compressor. With a 2 – gallon tank, it delivers 1.2 CFM at 90 psi and has a maximum pressure of 135 psi.
For finish work, it’s a great solution for using 15ga, 16ga, 18ga, 23ga nails and staplers. However, it’s not suitable for framing or coil nailers that require repetitive use. Automotive tools that need continuous use also won’t work well with its 2 – gallon tank, as it can’t maintain consistent pressure when using a die grinder or larger impact wrench. While it excels at inflating tires, pressure testing, and blowing off sawdust, it can’t magically power a paint sprayer with its small air tank.
Why Not PACKOUT?
The compressor is built with a stackable square tube frame, but it’s not PACKOUT compatible. This seems like an oversight, as it would be a logical addition. We’ve seen corded compressors like the Polair Airstak fit into the Tanos Systainer system, and there are many DIY solutions available.
Air compressors generate a lot of vibration, so adding PACKOUT slots would require extra dampening, which would add weight and cost. At 475, which is about double the cost of other corded compressors with similar specs. The steel frame of the Milwaukee compressor makes it a good candidate for aftermarket PACKOUT integration solutions, but these would need to address the vibration issue.
Quietest Cordless Compressor
The new M18 air compressor operates at only 68 dBA, which is extremely quiet. This is crucial in certain situations, such as remodeling work when clients are still living in the home. In comparison, the Flexvolt is at 80 dBA, a significant difference. According to OSHA’s chart, 60 dBA is equivalent to a conversation 3 feet away, while 80 dBA is like a freight train 100 feet away. Although the CFM is the same as the Flexvolt, the Milwaukee compressor is several pounds heavier. However, it has a suitcase – style handle and a flat frame, making it easier to handle than the round pancake – style Flexvolt and less likely to be knocked over on the job.
All Day Runtime
With an M18 12.0Ah battery, the runtime is 1,600 Brad Nails per charge. This means roughly 100 – 130 nails per Ah, so even a 5.0Ah battery would be sufficient for a lot of trim work.
The big question for users is whether to invest more in pneumatics or switch to M18 FUEL nailers and use a M12 inflator for other tasks. This compressor offers a lot of convenience and quiet operation, but its limitations in terms of tank size and PACKOUT compatibility need to be considered.
Related topics:
- Air compressor technologies, news and engineering basics
- News & Insights – aircompressors.com
- Air Compressor Blog and News – KAESER
