Compressor Fuel Tank Run Time Calculator

How the run time is worked out

Run time is tank size divided by fuel burn. Burn is estimated from engine power at full load, then scaled for how hard the compressor works. A compressor that unloads when tools stop uses much less fuel than one running flat out.

Example: the Brüder SP5000 has a 70 L tank and a 31.3 kW Kubota diesel. At full load the estimate is about 9.39 L/h, or about 7.455 hours per tank.

Frequently asked questions

How long will a diesel compressor run on a tank of fuel?

Divide the tank size by the fuel burn. A 70 L tank at about 9.39 L/h runs for about 7.455 hours at full load, longer at lighter loads.

How much fuel does a portable air compressor use?

Roughly 0.25 to 0.30 litres of diesel per kW of engine power per hour at full load, less when the compressor unloads.

Does a compressor use less fuel when idle?

Yes. When tools stop and the compressor unloads, fuel use drops well below full load. This calculator assumes about 30 percent at idle.

How big a fuel tank do I need for a full day?

Take the hours you work, multiply by the L/h at your typical load and add 10 percent reserve.