Iwata Power Jet Pro compressor
◆ PRODUCT Iwata Power Jet Pro compressor ◆ PRICE £449.00 ◆ AVAILABILITY The Airbrush Company Tel 01903 767800 Web www.airbrushes.com
Regardless of how good an airbrush may be – or how proficient the user is – the quality of the compressed air source will always play an important role in the painting process. What all airbrushes need is a steady, reliable and controllable air source, free from contaminants like oil and water.
There are some good budget and mid-priced compressors on the market, but many in the under-£300 range are inevitably hindered by limited duty cycles, meaning that the unit requires regular rest periods to cool down. For modellers with a need for more intensive use, be they active hobbyists or professionals, investing in a more powerful and rugged machine is essential.
The new Iwata Power Jet Pro compressor offers the perfect package for more demanding users. Although fairly compact in size (330 by 180 by 300mm) and lightweight in nature (11kg), it’s a very powerful unit that’s housed in a tough steel case and, thanks to the carry handle, is eminently portable.
Featuring a quiet but powerful, twin-pump 1/6hp induction motor, the Power Jet Pro boasts twin air outlets, each with its own pressure regulation valve, gauge and moisture filter, allowing two airbrushes to be used simultaneously. This means that the compressor can be shared between two users, or permits a quick change between airbrushes (perhaps with different pressure settings) during painting and weathering jobs.
The oil-less piston motor offers a low maintenance, reliable option and a 2-litre rectangular air tank sits within the steel case. This is an interesting departure from the more traditional cylindrical tank, helping to maximise space and the stored air allows for a very smooth output to the airbrushes.
The pressure valves are readily accessible and can be locked to preserve specific settings. The gauges are located in the top of the case, beside the valves, for easy visual reference and the moisture purge valves are also easily accessed, without the need to poke around inside the case.
Iwata’s Smart Technology automatically switches the compressor on when the airbrush’s trigger is depressed, providing air instantly at the pre-set pressure. As soon as you stop spraying, the compressor will switch off when the pressure within the on-board tank returns to a set level. A pair of 3-metre coiled hoses is provided, with quick-release connectors (no need for a spanner!) and there’s even a hole in the outer case to allow for rapid cleaning of the air inlet filter.
The compressor is compatible with any brand of airbrush, with various hose adaptors supplied and a handy pair of airbrush holders are fitted to the top of the unit. Capable of working between 0-60psi for up to an hour continuously, it’s suited to the most demanding of airbrush and miniature spray gun users. With a full warranty and supreme build quality, it’s definitely a worthwhile investment. (GD)