What size air compressor is needed to run an impact wrench?

The size of the air compressor needed to run an impact wrench depends on the size of the impact wrench and the air consumption of the impact wrench. Impact wrenches are air-powered tools used for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts. They are classified by their drive size, which refers to the square socket on the end of the tool that holds the impact socket attachment. The most common drive sizes for impact wrenches are 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, and 1-inch.

1/4-inch and 1/2-inch impact wrenches can typically be run by a small, portable air compressor with a tank size of 10 gallons or less and an air flow of around 4 cubic feet per minute (CFM) at 90 pounds per square inch (PSI).

3/4-inch impact wrenches require a larger air compressor, with a tank size of around 20 gallons and an air flow of around 6 CFM at 90 PSI.

1-inch impact wrenches require a large, stationary air compressor with a tank size of around 40 gallons or more and an air flow of around 10 CFM at 90 PSI.

It's important to choose an air compressor that can meet the air flow and pressure requirements of the impact wrench you intend to use. If the air compressor is too small, the impact wrench will not be able to perform at its full potential. If the air compressor is too large, it will waste energy and may not be as portable.