With compressed-air delivery of 1.2 m³ per minute at 7 bar, Kaeser’s M13 portable compressor is built for everyday site work.
According to a release to industry from Kaeser, the unit is “the perfect partner for operating air hammers, pneumatic drills, saws, grinders and wrenches, not to mention impact moles and sewer robots.” Ten- and 13-bar versions are also available, while “the 15-bar version of the M17, with a delivery volume of 1 m³ per minute, is the ideal choice when it comes to trenchless fibre-optic cable laying.”
Both the M13 and M17 are rotary screw compressors driven by an air-cooled, four-cylinder Honda petrol engine through a low-maintenance V-belt drive. Kaeser says “a generously sized 20-litre fuel tank ensures sufficient fuel for long daily work shifts, whilst continuous delivery control adjusts the compressed-air delivery volume swiftly and precisely to meet actual demand.” The system reduces fuel use and wear during intermittent operation.
A higher-capacity battery provides reliable starting in all conditions, and “a petrol shut-off valve prevents carburettor overflow during transportation,” the company adds.
Maintenance access is designed for speed and simplicity. “The oil separator tank, which serves to ensure a low residual oil content for the compressed air, is equipped with spin-on cartridges, making cartridge changes quick and simplifying service access.” All maintenance points are easily reached through the wide-opening sound enclosure.
The enclosures themselves are built for durability and sound control. Kaeser notes that “for added sound protection, all models are equipped with a corrosion-resistant sound enclosure constructed from rotomoulded polyethylene.” The enclosures provide impact resistance and vibration damping. Units come in the company’s signature yellow finish, with optional custom colours for fleet branding.
For applications in enclosed or emissions-sensitive environments such as workshops, tunnels or city sites, an E-version powered by a three-phase electric motor is available. “For applications in enclosed spaces, on construction sites or in workshops, an emissions-free E-version featuring a 3-phase electric motor is available,” Kaeser’s release states.
Compact dimensions allow both models to fit easily inside a van, on a flat-deck truck or in a pick-up, leaving the trailer coupling free for other loads. Their low weight and balanced chassis simplify manual handling on uneven surfaces.
Where “specific applications require cool and condensate-free – or even technically oil-free – compressed air,” the compressors can be equipped with an external aftercooler, Kaeser explains. The optional system includes fixed connection lines for compressed air, condensate return and a 12-volt supply from the compressor to drive the fan. Condensate is evaporated by the engine’s exhaust heat or collected in a canister on electric versions.
The M13 and M17 are built for easy movement between sites. “A long push bar, wheels fitted with pneumatic tyres, four convenient hand grips and a retractable lifting eye guarantee simple transportation to the construction site,” the release notes. Their low centre of gravity keeps the units stable on rough ground, while compact size makes storage efficient.
By combining portability, efficiency and ease of maintenance, Kaeser’s M13 and M17 extend the capabilities of modern portable compressed-air systems. Suitable for construction, utilities and service work, they deliver steady air supply, fast setup and reliable performance wherever they operate.