CAT CLASS: HQ-10006

10-20 cfm Gas Portable Air Compressor

The 10-20 cfm gas portable air compressor is sized for single-tool pneumatic applications on sites without electrical power, most commonly framing nailers in residential and light commercial construction. This middle rung on the gas portable ladder delivers 11.7–18.3 cfm free air delivery, bridging compact hobby-grade units and heavier contractor-grade machines. Brands in this class include Rolair and Sullair.

Models

Brands

Cat classes

Pick a size class — capacity and reach differ across the range.

Key specifications

Specification	Typical range	What it means
Free air delivery	12–18 cfm	Volume of compressed air available for continuous tool operation
Engine power	160–300 hp	Gasoline engine output driving the compressor pump
Portability	Wheeled cart	Hand-towable frame with pneumatic tires for jobsite maneuverability

How to choose

This size is appropriate when operating one or two pneumatic framing nailers, brad nailers, or similar intermittent-duty tools on sites lacking electrical infrastructure. For lighter tasks such as inflating tires or powering a single finish nailer, the Up to 10 cfm Gas Portable Air Compressor offers easier transport and lower fuel consumption. When running multiple framing nailers simultaneously, continuous sandblasting, or heavier pneumatic tools, the 20+ cfm Gas Portable Air Compressor provides the necessary reserve capacity and duty cycle.

What this size handles

Framing crew nailing wall studs and roof trusses on a remote residential build
Installing siding or trim with pneumatic nailers where temporary power is unavailable
Light fence construction using a coil nailer in open lots
Emergency repair work requiring compressed air at utility sites
Small-scale concrete formwork assembly with pneumatic fasteners

Safety & operation

Gasoline engines produce carbon monoxide; outdoor operation or adequate ventilation is required
Noise levels from engine and compressor may require hearing protection in prolonged use
Pressure relief valves and gauges must be monitored to prevent over-pressurization
Hot engine and exhaust components present burn hazards during and after operation

Transport & logistics

Wheeled cart design allows hand-towing across jobsites and loading into pickup beds
Typical weight and footprint permit lifting by two workers or tailgate loading
May be secured in work vans or utility trailers without specialized tie-downs

Power & supply

Gasoline-fueled engine eliminates need for electrical service on site
Fuel tank capacity typically supports several hours of intermittent operation
Requires periodic refueling with standard unleaded gasoline

Frequently asked

What differentiates this class from electric wheeled compressors in the same CFM range?

Gas models operate independently of electrical power, making them suitable for remote sites, rough framing phases before temporary power, and outdoor locations where extension cords are impractical.

Can this size run two framing nailers at once?

Models at the upper end of this range (near 18 cfm) can support two nailers during typical intermittent framing work, though sustained simultaneous use may exceed duty cycle and cause pressure drops.

How does engine horsepower relate to air delivery in this class?

The spec range showing 160–300 hp is unusually high for this CFM class and likely reflects a data anomaly; typical gas compressors in this output range use 5–9 hp engines to achieve 12–18 cfm delivery.

Compare popular models

Find by spec →

Normalised to the same units. A dash means the figure was not published.

Model	Free air delivery	Max pressure	Engine power
Rolair 1040HK18	18 cfm	-	270 hp
Rolair 4090HK17	13 cfm	-	163 hp
Rolair 4090HK17/20	13 cfm	-	163 hp
Rolair 4090HMK103	12 cfm	-	163 hp
Rolair 4090HMK103/20	12 cfm	-	163 hp
Rolair 6590HK18	18 cfm	-	196 hp