Size a portable set from the compressor passport and starting method. Do not publish a universal start-current multiplier on the card.

In this guide5 sections

Select a portable generator from the exact compressor model, motor nameplate and documented starting method. Running kW alone is insufficient; keep a compressor-compatible listing on hold until the supplier can assess the named pair.

Pump systems belong on portable generators for water pumps. Plant inrush work belongs on motor-starting kVA, inrush and voltage dip. Other loads stay on what size generator do I need.

Collect the compressor passport, not a household kilowatt

Record the compressor manufacturer and model, motor nameplate, voltage, frequency, phase and starting method. Attach the relevant manual pages so the supplier can assess one identified compressor rather than a generic running-power request.

If the product is a combo, name each job. Name which engine or motor runs the compressor. A combo SKU does not drop the file pack.

The set’s power version must match the compressor. Use the voltage and frequency checklist. Use the outlet and plug guide.

Six passport nodes: compressor model, motor nameplate, start method, pressure and duty, cable path, test record
Empty nodes keep the compressor SKU on HOLD. The map is not a BEAR calculation.

Starting method comes from the compressor documents

The start event changes if the maker uses direct-on-line, no-load start, soft start or another written scheme. Do not print a one-size start-amp factor. Do not take one from a seller in place of the file pack.

Start-amp fields on a compressor plate are maker data for that machine. They are not a set sizing rule. Missing start data is HOLD. Do not “add margin by eye.”

ISO 8528-1 is set terms. It does not size your compressor.

Four starting-method branches: direct-on-line, unloaded start, soft start, and unknown method that stays on HOLD
Each branch ends in manufacturer data and a test, not an assumed multiplier.

Combo SKUs still need a named compressor

Retail combo cards mix three jobs. Welding terminals belong on the welding generator buyer guide. Do not treat a combo wattage as compressor-start proof.

Write the order. Start the set. Let it settle. Then close the compressor circuit. Do not start the compressor at the same time as the set unless both books allow it. Auto-restart after a stop is a separate field.

Rated and peak labels of the set follow rated versus peak. OSHA, Using Portable Generators Safely is outdoor-use context. It does not pair a compressor model.

Compressor HOLD table

Field Passes HOLD
Compressor passport Exact model and motor documents Only “air compressor”
Start Maker method and start data Only running kW
Electrical version Phase, voltage, frequency match Generic 220/380
Combo identity Compressor, generator and welder named apart One headline wattage for three functions
Sequence Settle then start compressor Arbitrary switch-on
Auto-restart Pressure-switch behaviour written Assumed simultaneous tools
Test Start and run with the compressor or agreed stand Idle generator only
Multiplier No universal start-current factor used “Times running amps” with no passport
Five-step sequence from a stable generator to compressor start and pressure recovery
Times are not specified. The sequence is a request field.
Open-frame generators on a factory table, visual context only
Workshop photograph for visual context only. It does not size a compressor start.

What to send with the request

State the market, use, compressor model and file pack, start method, other loads, voltage, Hz, phase, quantity, combo yes/no, and the files you already hold.

Ask the supplier to identify the proposed generator, its electrical configuration, starting limits and required sequence. Request panel photos, the matching manual and the scope of a starting test with the named compressor. Review the gasoline generator category, then send the compressor documents through the project form for a configuration-specific reply.