Check Out Portable Air Compressor Advice from Three Manufacturers

A portable air compressor offers crews a powerful addition on the jobsite — with the ability to produce air that can run tools, winterize irrigation lines and more. We chatted with product experts from Bobcat, Hitachi Global Air Power and Sullair to gather tips on how to select the right compressor, as well as how to safely use them. They also provided product info on a model in their lineups. Read on to see what they had to say…

For Rent

Cody Blythe, Bobcat Product Manager

Advice: When renting a portable air compressor, start with the application. Match the compressor’s pressure and flow requirements to the tools being used rather than simply selecting the highest-output machine. For many common applications, 185-425 cfm provides a versatile range, while more demanding applications may require higher flow. Consider air quality as well. Painting, sensitive equipment or work near waterways may require oil-free or Instrument Quality Air. For jobs with multiple applications, dual-pressure and dual-flow compressors can provide added versatility in a single machine. Also evaluate portability, rental duration, machine condition and available technical support. For recurring needs, compare ongoing rental costs with the value of adding a compressor to the fleet.

Product Spotlight: The Bobcat PA375V portable air compressor delivers 350 to 375 cfm at 125 to 150 psi for a range of applications. Its FlexAir system automatically adjusts compressor output based on workload to optimize performance and fuel efficiency, while Eco Mode helps reduce fuel consumption during lighter workloads. A water-resistant 4.3-in. display provides intuitive operation and on-screen diagnostics. Extended compressor oil change intervals and dual spin-on separator elements simplify service, while large access doors provide easy access to service points. With up to nine hours of runtime, the PA375V can support a full shift. Built for rental environments, it combines straightforward operation, towing stability and serviceability to help minimize downtime.

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