On 20 Dec 2006 05:20:27 -0800, "keyridge" wrote:

I have a 6.5 HP compressor and looking at purchasing some air tools,
i.e. ROS. I understand the lack of moving parts for the air ROS has a
longer shelf life. Are there other advantages/ disadvantages of air vs.
power tools? Do any of you use air ROS for woodworking? Any recommended
air tool manufacturers for woodworkers? Primarily wood but may use it
on occasion for auto.

An air ROS (often called a DA as well) is an excellent tool. I like
them a lot better than my electric.

A die-grinder can have some uses as well, if you're doing any heavy
contouring or power sanding on a lathe.

The advantage is that you can often get a better tool for less money
by going pneumatic, but the disadvantages are that they can be very
loud (when you consider the compressor kicking on and off,) they're
less portable (you need to take the compressor with, too) and if
you're in a really humid environment and don't have a dryer on the
compressor, they can *spit* a little- and that moisture usually has
some air tool oil in it.

Can't recommend a manufacturer offhand, but the air sanders are well
worth the money, at least in every case I've seen.