CAT CLASS: HQ-10016

185-260 cfm Towable Diesel Air Compressor

The 185-260 cfm towable diesel air compressor is the industry workhorse, delivering 188-210 cfm at 100-145 psi to power two 90 lb pneumatic breakers simultaneously. This size class sits mid-ladder in the towable diesel range, above the 100-185 cfm single-tool units and below the 260-400 cfm multi-crew machines. Most job sites specify this class by name when compressed air tools are part of the scope.

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	190–210 cfm	Volumetric output available for pneumatic tools and equipment
Max pressure	100–145 psi	Working pressure matches industrial pneumatic tool requirements
Tool capacity	Two 90 lb breakers	Simultaneous operation of two large demolition hammers without pressure drop

How to choose

This size class is appropriate for jobs requiring two large pneumatic tools operating concurrently or continuous single-tool operation with headroom for peak demand. When only one 90 lb breaker or smaller tool will operate at a time, the 100-185 cfm Towable Diesel Air Compressor offers adequate capacity with lower fuel consumption. For larger crews running three or more breakers, multiple drills, or high-volume sandblasting equipment, the 260-400 cfm Towable Diesel Air Compressor prevents tool starvation and maintains consistent pressure across the distribution line.

What this size handles

Concrete demolition with two operators using 90 lb pneumatic breakers
Roadwork requiring simultaneous jackhammering and pneumatic tamping
Foundation excavation with rock drilling and air-powered clay spading
Pipeline trenching with continuous pneumatic tool use across shifts
Municipal street repair with concurrent concrete breaking and compaction
Bridge deck removal supporting two-person demolition teams

Safety & operation

Diesel exhaust must be directed away from enclosed or poorly ventilated work areas
Air hose whip and coupling separation hazards require proper hose restraints and shutoff valves
Daily inspection of pressure relief valves, hose connections, and trailer lighting before operation
Hearing protection required near compressor during operation; noise levels typically exceed 85 dBA

Transport & logistics

Standard highway-towable trailer with DOT-compliant lights and safety chains
Typical tow vehicle requirement: 3/4-ton pickup or larger with appropriate hitch rating
Single-axle or tandem-axle configuration depending on model, fits through standard gate openings

Power & supply

Self-contained diesel engine with integral fuel tank, typically 8–25 gallon capacity
Daily fuel consumption varies with load but generally ranges 3–8 gallons per 8-hour shift
No external electrical supply required; compressor is fully autonomous on site

Frequently asked

What differentiates this class from the 100-185 cfm size?

The 185-260 cfm class sustains two 90 lb breakers simultaneously, while the 100-185 cfm size is designed for single large tool operation. The additional capacity prevents pressure drop when a second operator starts work or when tool demand peaks.

Can this size power sandblasting equipment?

This class can supply smaller sandblasting pots and nozzles, but high-production blasting typically requires the sustained higher volume of the 260-400 cfm or larger size classes to maintain abrasive velocity and production rates.

How does maximum pressure affect tool performance?

Models delivering 100 psi meet the minimum for most pneumatic demolition tools, while 145 psi units provide reserve capacity for pressure drop over long hose runs or when operating multiple tools at the distribution limit.