We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Industry

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is a Mobile Compressor?

By Amy Rodriguez
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 3,970
Share

A mobile compressor is an air compressing machine that has the ability to be moved easily from one project area to another. Also known as a portable compressor, these devices are available in small, lightweight models designed to be carried and heavier, wheeled versions. Consumers should consider their intended compressor applications before choosing a model for purchase.

Basic air compressors use a combination of a motor and storage tank to pull outside air into the machine. As more air enters the storage tank from the force of the motor's motion, the molecules become extremely compressed into a dense mass. As a result, the compressor owner can attach an air tool, such as a nail gun, to the machine to generate mechanical motion. A mobile compressor functions in the same manner, just on a smaller scale than a larger, stationary model.

A small mobile compressor is generally used in home garages or installed within a pickup truck for field work. These compressors are commonly built with a horizontal storage tank; this design choice makes the mobile compressor easier to physically handle and lowers the machine's center of gravity to prevent overturns in a vehicle trunk or bed. The main drawback to these small machines is the tank size. Most of these compressors have a 2 to 6 gallon (7.5 to 23 liter) air storage tank which only powers smaller air tools, like a drill.

A large mobile compressor offers more power since its storage tank can be as large as 30 gallons (114 liters). These compressors are commonly used in large workshops, such as a small business or hobbyist's workroom. Due to their large size, these machines must have wheels for portability around the workshop. In addition, the large tank is commonly designed in a vertical shape to preserve floor space. Consumers should make sure that the vertically shaped compressor is moved carefully around the workshop to prevent accidental overturns, which are more likely because of its tall and heavy design.

The mobile compressor is commonly offered in both gas or electrically fueled versions. Consumers who require a compressor in their vehicle will need to use a gas mobile compressor since electricity is not readily available on the road. In contrast, home or small business workshops should use an electrically driven mobile compressor. This compressor type does not emit harmful gas fumes and also provides a quiet running sound; the gas compressor version is naturally noisier during operation.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-a-mobile-compressor.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.