Rol-Air Single-Stage FC1500HBP2 Air Compressor
Date Published: 10/4/07
Good things really do come in small packages, especially when it's the new 1.5-gallon Rol-Air Single-Stage FC1500HBP2 air compressor. With a 1.5-horsepower motor, this compact and lightweight unit weighs only 37 pounds and measures just 20 inches tall, so it can easily be transported to where you need it most.
With a high air output of 3.6 cubic feet per minute (CFM) at 100 pounds per square inch (PSI), the FC1500HBP2 delivers plenty of pressure for a wide range of applications. The recovery rate is very fast, taking only 18 seconds to reach 100 PSI. Rated at a maximum 145 PSI, the compact and lightweight design makes it a great fit for home, craft, hobby and workshop needs. The FC1500HBP2 also easily handles a framing gun, so it's a good choice for finishing contractors.
The 13.7-amp industrial-grade motor operates at 3,400 RPM, has a low-amp draw and features ball bearings for greater durability. The single-stage pump is well-equipped too, with a cast-iron cylinder, stainless-steel reed valves and the added reliability of splash lubrication to ensure a longer life. A familiar feature on most industrial-grade compressors, splash-lubricated units are outfitted with "flaps" on the bottom of the connecting rods to splash oil around the compressor crankcase. These pumps tend to last a long time, as long as you maintain enough oil in the crankcase.
Splash-lubricated compressors are also noted for their quiet operation. However, we noticed little difference in the intensity of sound when running the FC1500HBP2 and a comparable oil-less model in our workshop. The Rol-Air was just a tad more muffled and somewhat higher pitched in tone.
For all-around performance that's built to last, we recommend the Rol-Air Single-Stage FC1500HBP2 air compressor.
Pros: Compact and lightweight, high output of 3.6 CFM at 100 PSI, fast recovery time, industrial-grade motor with low amp draw, cast iron cylinder, splash-lubricated pump
Cons: Pressure gauges are located near the bottom and therefore a bit harder to read, oil can be messy, unit must operate in a level position
