Heavy Duty Shop & Commercial Air Compressor - Model No. C513HA8

Castair C513HA8 — 5HP Commercial Air Compressor, 30-Gallon Horizontal Tank

The C513HA8 is Castair's 5HP single-stage commercial air compressor on a 30-gallon horizontal ASME tank. This is a single-phase unit running on 230V/22A — no magnetic starter required. The horizontal tank keeps the unit's profile low, making it easy to position under a workbench or in tight spaces. With 18.3 CFM at 100 PSI and a pump running at 1,088 RPM, this compressor handles continuous air demand for a 2-3 bay shop without the thermal stress of high-RPM consumer units. It ships at 295 lbs.

Confirmed Specifications — From Castair's Published Data

• Model: C513HA8
• Horsepower: 5HP
• Compression Stages: Single-stage
• Tank: 30-gallon horizontal
• Pump RPM: 1,088
• CFM @ 0 PSI: 23.7
• CFM @ 100 PSI: 18.3
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 33 x 18 x 38 inches
• Voltage/Amps: 230V / 22A (single-phase)
• Shipped Weight: 295 lbs
• Shutoff Pressure: 125 PSI (factory set, single-stage)
• Magnetic Starter Required: No

Who This Compressor Is For

The C513HA8 is the right unit for a 2-3 bay shop running air tools at intermittent demand — impact wrenches, tire changers, blow guns, and similar shop tools. The 30-gallon horizontal tank is compact enough for shops where floor space is limited. Single-phase 230V means it runs on standard commercial electrical service without three-phase power — a significant simplification for smaller shops.

At 18.3 CFM @ 100 PSI, this compressor will keep up with a single air tool in continuous use or two tools in intermittent use. If you're running a busy multi-bay shop with simultaneous air demand from multiple tools, step up to the C516VA8 or C518VA8 for more tank capacity, or consider a two-stage unit for higher working pressure.

Cast Iron Pump — Commercial Series Features

Castair's commercial series pumps are a step above consumer compressors in every measurable way. The pump runs at 1,088 RPM — significantly slower than consumer units that run at 1,725-3,450 RPM. Slower RPM means less heat, longer valve life, and quieter operation.

• Oil-lubricated cast iron pump: Not an oil-free design — this pump requires compressor oil and is built for long service life under sustained use
• Slow RPM (1,088): Extended pump and valve life compared to high-speed designs
• V-twin cylinder layout: Smooth-running configuration with 360-degree cooling around both cylinders
• Automotive-type paper element air filter/silencer: Clean intake air and quieter operation than open mesh filters
• Easy-read sight glass: Check oil level at a glance without removing covers
• Main bearings: Automotive-type ball bearings for superior crankshaft support
• Bleeder pressure switch: Load-less starts — the motor starts unloaded and the bleeder releases pressure from the pump before the next start

Tank and Frame Construction

• 30-gallon horizontal ASME tank: Powder-coated, code-compliant pressure vessel
• 4 feet on stationary model: Stable mounting, slightly elevated for air circulation
• Rigid metal belt guard: OSHA-compliant protection for the belt drive
• Copper discharge and unloader tube: Stronger and better heat dissipation than rubber hose connections at the pump outlet
• Factory shutoff pressure: 125 PSI (single-stage units) — reset range 100-125 PSI typical

Available Configurations — 5HP Commercial Series

Castair offers the same 5HP single-stage pump across multiple tank sizes and orientations. All commercial series units share the same pump specs (1,088 RPM, 23.7 CFM @ 0 PSI, 18.3 CFM @ 100 PSI) and electrical requirements (230V/22A):

Note: C518VC1 and C518HC1 use a two-stage pump at 715 RPM with 21.7 CFM @ 0 PSI and 18.1 CFM @ 100 PSI — similar output but higher working pressure (175 PSI shutoff) and quieter operation at lower RPM.

When Does a Shop Need This vs. Stepping Up or Down?

The C513HA8 is the entry point of the commercial series. The 30-gallon tank is on the smaller end — it will cycle more frequently than the 60 or 80-gallon units under the same air demand. If your shop runs tools continuously or has more than one tool going at a time, the 60-gallon C516VA8 is a better fit for the same motor, same electrical, more reserve volume.

Step up to the C518VC1 if you need higher working pressure (175 PSI vs. 125 PSI) or quieter operation — the two-stage pump runs at 715 RPM versus 1,088 RPM and is noticeably quieter at the cost of slightly different CFM characteristics.

Stay at C513HA8 if horizontal orientation and compact dimensions are the priority and your air demand is moderate — 1-2 tools running simultaneously with cycle time between uses.

Factory Options Available

• Air Operated Auto Drain (#ADVSM): Automatic tank condensate drain
• Electronic Auto Drain (#SDV03M): Timer-controlled drain valve
• Silencer 1" (#SA100M): Intake noise silencer for C1-pump units
• Right From the Start Kit (#RFS001): Break-in oil, vibration pads, ball valve, flex hose, filter element
• Belt Guard Aftercooler (#BGAC1M): 35 CFM rated — cools compressed air before it enters the tank
• Vibration Pads (#VP1004): Set of four 4x4x1" rubber isolation pads

What's in the Box

• Assembled compressor (pump, motor, 30-gallon horizontal tank, belt drive)
• Rigid metal belt guard
• Copper discharge and unloader tube
• ASME safety valve and pressure switch (bleeder type)
• Oil sight glass
• Automotive-type paper element air filter/silencer
• Not included: Compressor oil (needed before first operation), vibration pads, flex hose for shop piping connection

Why Buy From Air Compressor Factory Direct?

We have specialized in commercial and industrial air compressors since 2016 and carry the full Castair lineup — compressors, pumps, tanks, and accessories. Free shipping on qualifying orders. Free tech support at 866-217-0063. Full manufacturer warranty. The Castair commercial series is a significant step up from big-box store compressors; we can help you understand the difference and make the right call for your shop.

Call 866-217-0063 for quick answers and help!