The type A17 air starter is generally used for starting internal combustion engines of an approximate rating of up to 300 kW (400 HP), although the suitability depends, in practice, on the engine capacity, number of cylinders and the ratio of the driving pinion to the flywheel ring gear.

The A17 is usually supplied with pinion and flange and does not need external lubrication. It is lubrication free.

They are successfully used in: emergency generating sets, motor pumps, auxiliary ship engines, forklift or other industrial vehicles.