I should mention that inrush (startup) current on a motor can be huge, as in 3-4 times the nameplate rating of the motor. Compressors are notorious for this as their motors start under full load. It's a frequent discussion on the woodworking forums I frequent. It may be that your circuit breaker has a quicker trip rating than a typical service panel breaker in residential use. In other words, the farther over the breaker amp rating you go, the quicker it trips. If that time delay isn't enough for the motor to get back down to running amps, it will trip.

Jason

 

FYI :
sometimes the compressor starts on the compression stroke which makes it harder to start
some compressors have a valve to alleviate that

 

Typically called "unloader valves" which are great in so many applications---used on all sizes of heavy duty and and use industrial-type compressors.

 

I know The OP really wants to power his Mak compressor, but this is another option for onboard air.

What do you need the air for?
The Makita is not a huge CFM unit, that 12volt one actually may outperform it(depending on tank used, maybe?)

I assume that you are aware of the milwaukee m12 ratchets and m18 FUEL 1/2 impact?

 

80 amps , wow!

Where is the popcorn smiley ?

I have them and love them

 

A 2500 watt inverter can pull about 200 amps at full output very easily.

So 80 amps isnt that bad...

I have seen these in person (so to speak)...they are a bit pricey but worth it if you need it.

 

That 12voltair is nearly $1000. If you don't need the cfm that unit puts out, a Puma 12v compressor is less than a third of the price, 100% duty cycle and 30 amp draw. But that money could just go towards a large inverter and be done with it. A second battery mounted close to the inverter will probably yield best results.

 

I LOVE Milwaukee's newer M-Series of cordless tools---also have a whole fleet of the M12 stuff---invaluable for my work. These days so many cordless tools can and do replace pneumatic stuff from just a few years ago.

When it comes to on-board air there are a lot of choices, among the best is ViAir. Used in a lot of applications their current demand is smaller but so is max pressure and CFM's. Using a holding tank that could be charged while driving from job-to-job would be one approach----the smaller capacity units could be used.

If immediate air is required frequently dual ViAir compressors could be used, relying on an inverter for power while the work van is at rest.

Just another idea.............

 

I know some off roaders who pressurize their bumpers for use as air tanks.

Some also mount an extra AC compressor for an air pump.I don't think this would work for a van though.

 

FWIW if I was going to mount an engine driven air compressor for tools and such I'd use a compressor and dryer for air brakes on a commercial truck. Common, durable, cost effective, high flow, capable of 150PSI, and governed.