CAT CLASS: HQ-10013

Up to 100 cfm Towable Diesel Air Compressor

The Up to 100 cfm towable diesel air compressor is the entry-level class in the towable diesel compressor ladder, suitable for running a single 90 lb breaker or a couple of small pneumatic tools. This size sits below the 100-185 cfm band and serves light construction, utility, and maintenance applications where mobility and self-contained diesel operation are required but air demand is modest. Units in this class combine the portability of a small trailer-mounted package with enough output for basic pneumatic work.

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

Key specifications

Specification	Typical range	What it means
Airflow capacity	Up to 100 cfm	Defines the upper limit of this size class; sufficient for one medium breaker or two to three small air tools operated simultaneously.
Power source	Diesel engine	Self-contained diesel power enables operation at remote sites without electrical infrastructure.
Chassis	Single-axle towable trailer	Trailer-mounted configuration allows road towing behind a standard truck or service vehicle.

How to choose

This size class is appropriate when the work involves a single 90 lb breaker, a small pavement saw with air accessories, or a few hand-held pneumatic tools that will not run concurrently at maximum demand. For applications requiring two or more breakers, multiple grinders, or continuous high-volume air tool operation, the 100-185 cfm Towable Diesel Air Compressor is the better choice. There is no smaller towable diesel class; operators needing less than 100 cfm typically use electric or gas-powered stationary compressors instead.

What this size handles

Running a single 90 lb pneumatic breaker for sidewalk or curb removal
Powering a pavement saw air motor and small grinder on utility cut work
Operating two impact wrenches or needle scalers for light demolition or surface prep
Supplying air to a sandblaster on small-scale cleaning or coating removal tasks
Supporting intermittent air tool use on remote maintenance or repair projects

Safety & operation

Exhaust heat and noise require attention to positioning relative to workers and occupied structures
Trailer brakes and wheel chocks necessary to prevent movement during operation
Air hose whip and coupling failure risks increase with higher pressures; proper hose rated for compressor output pressure is essential
Diesel fuel handling and storage must follow site-specific flammable liquid protocols

Transport & logistics

Single-axle trailer design allows towing behind a standard half-ton or larger pickup truck
Pintle hitch or lunette eye compatible with most service and utility vehicles
Compact footprint permits positioning in tight work zones and urban job sites

Power & supply

Integrated diesel engine and fuel tank provide self-contained operation without external power
Fuel consumption typically measured in gallons per operating hour, varying with load demand
On-board fuel capacity determines runtime between refueling intervals

Frequently asked

How many pneumatic breakers can an up to 100 cfm compressor run?

This class typically powers one 90 lb breaker at full capacity. Running multiple breakers or adding other air tools simultaneously will exceed the compressor's output and cause pressure drop.

What distinguishes this size from larger towable compressors?

The up to 100 cfm class is limited to single-tool or very light multi-tool applications. The 100-185 cfm band supports two breakers or more sustained air demand, making it the industry standard for general construction pneumatic work.

Can this compressor size handle sandblasting equipment?

It can supply air to small portable sandblasters for intermittent cleaning work, but continuous blasting or larger nozzles will require the higher sustained airflow of a 100-185 cfm or larger unit.

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

Model	Free air delivery	Max pressure	Engine power
Sullair 185 Series T4F Portable Diesel Compressors	184 cfm	-	60 hp
Sullair International 185 T3 Portable Diesel Compressors	184 cfm	-	60 hp
Kaeser SFC 75M-125psig / 460V/3ph/60Hz	40 cfm	125 psi	128 hp
Sullair Mid-Range Series T4F Portable Diesel Compressors	12 cfm	-	302 hp