What does working pressure for a compressor mean?

So generally painting at 30 psi or less is fine for continuous use but I can also do short sessions at a higher pressure?


Yes thats about how mine works even with a spare air tank in line, it just has more storage space, so when it does make up air and shut off, it just takes longer to run out.

If I set the regulator on my compressor at 30 psi (will run continuous fine), could I put the regulator on the 2nd air tank at a higher psi? Say 40 psi? Or not?

No, your tank in line would only be at the 30 psi your first regulator is set at.


I'm thinking this will mean the pressure drops quicker and will turn on again sooner but the compressor is still only running at 30 psi. Am I right?


As far as I can tell you are correct. In my set up, i have my compressor reg turned all the way up, a whole 60 psi, i then run an airline to a secondary 2 gal tank, out of that tank I run to a secondary regulator/moisture trap and do all my pressure adjustments at that point, unless I use one of the small valves on my hoses, I also run moisture traps on my hoses, I like to be thorough . Not that I have ever had moisture issues. One of the benefits of having an air tank in line is it is an extra moisture collector and easily drainable.


Hope I have not confused you too much.