I'm getting a new compressor primarily to try my hand at spray finishing. I'm considering the 60 gallon 3HP Ingersoll Rand unit. However, in doing some research around all the things I "may" someday do with this compressor it seems that even one this big may fall short. It's rated at about 11cfm at 90psi... which is about 4cfm short of what is recommended for most DA sanders.

Question is... Can you run a sander on a 3HP unit with some success, or would it be a complete waste of time?

In addition to not wanting to spend the extra $ (there is wife acceptance factor involved) to step up to the 5HP unit, I may not have enough power to run it. The only 240V outlet in my garage would be timeshared with a 3HP table saw. I think it may be 30amps. It's really the dryer outlet.

Thanks!