Diesel compressors are common where mobility and independence from mains power are priorities. They are widely used on construction, civil and remote worksites, but require planning for fuel, access, exhaust, noise and site rules.
Key points
- Independent of mains electricity
- Common in towable portable classes
- Fuel consumption and refuelling matter
- Ventilation and exhaust rules apply
Diesel site considerations
Diesel machines are convenient where there is no suitable electrical supply, but they need safe positioning for exhaust and refuelling. Estimate daily operating hours so fuel arrangements do not become the weak point in an otherwise adequate hire plan.
Check towing mass and braking requirements before assuming the compressor can be collected behind an ordinary vehicle. Delivery is often the simpler choice for heavier units.
How to specify the job
Start with the equipment or process that will consume the air. Record the number of tools that may run at the same time, each tool's required airflow, and the highest operating pressure. For industrial temporary-air jobs, also note required air quality, duty cycle, connection size and whether the process can tolerate interruption.
Airflow, pressure and operating margin
Compressor capacity is usually described by airflow and pressure. In Australia you will commonly see airflow in CFM or m³/min and pressure in PSI or bar. The compressor must meet both requirements at the point of use. Long hose runs, fittings, filters and simultaneous demand can reduce effective performance, so a practical sizing margin is useful.
What to ask the hire supplier
Machine
Confirm rated free-air delivery, working pressure, fuel or electrical requirements and whether the exact model may vary.
Accessories
Ask about hoses, manifolds, aftercoolers, dryers, filtration, receivers, fittings and any tool-specific accessories.
Logistics
Confirm towing or delivery, access, placement, refuelling, collection, operating hours and any site induction requirements.
Safety
Follow the supplier's risk assessment and operating manual. Verify hose, coupling and accessory pressure ratings.
Use the sizing calculator
If your application is based on pneumatic tools, our calculator can total approximate airflow and suggest a compressor class. It is a planning tool only; final selection should be confirmed against the actual equipment specifications.
Open compressor calculator