Castair C516VA8 — 5HP Commercial Air Compressor, 60-Gallon Vertical Tank
The C516VA8 is Castair's 5HP single-stage commercial air compressor on a 60-gallon vertical ASME tank. It runs at 1,088 RPM, delivers 23.7 CFM @ 0 PSI and 18.3 CFM @ 100 PSI, and operates on 230V/22A single-phase power. No magnetic starter required. It ships at 335 lbs in a footprint of 34 x 20 inches at the base, 68 inches tall. Price per our records: $1,725.50. This is the same unit as the C516VA8-S without the factory-mounted starter.
Confirmed Specifications — From Castair's Published Data
- Model: C516VA8
- Horsepower: 5HP
- Compression Stages: Single-stage
- Tank: 60-gallon vertical, ASME-rated
- Pump RPM: 1,088
- CFM @ 0 PSI: 23.7
- CFM @ 100 PSI: 18.3
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 34 x 20 x 68 inches
- Voltage/Amps: 230V / 22A (single-phase)
- Shipped Weight: 335 lbs
- Shutoff Pressure: 125 PSI
- Magnetic Starter Required: No
Who This Is For
The C516VA8 is the most popular tank size in Castair's 5HP commercial lineup — 60 gallons provides a practical balance between reserve volume and physical size. The vertical orientation keeps the floor footprint to 34 x 20 inches (compare to the 30-gallon horizontal C513HA8 which is 33 x 18 inches at the base — nearly the same footprint, but the vertical 60-gallon gives you twice the reserve). For a 2-3 bay automotive shop, service garage, or body shop running single-phase power, this is the right starting point before moving up to the industrial series.
Cast Iron Commercial Pump
- Oil-lubricated cast iron: Not oil-free — built for sustained daily use
- 1,088 RPM pump speed: Slow operation means cool temperatures and long pump life
- Single-stage: Factory-set to 125 PSI shutoff — right for the vast majority of air tools
- V-twin cylinders: Smooth running, 360-degree cooling
- Paper element air filter/silencer: Clean intake, quiet operation
- Sight glass: Oil level visible without disassembly
- Ball bearing main bearings: Superior crankshaft support versus sleeve bearings
- Bleeder pressure switch: Motor starts unloaded every time
60-Gallon Vertical ASME Tank
- Compact floor footprint: 34 x 20 inch base
- 68-inch height: Verify ceiling clearance at installation site
- Powder-coated ASME-rated pressure vessel: Code-compliant for commercial use
- 4-leg base: Elevated, stable mounting
- Copper discharge tube: Durable, better heat dissipation
- Rigid metal belt guard: OSHA-compliant belt drive protection
Available 5HP Configurations
| Model | Tank | Orientation | Starter | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C513HA8 | 30-Gal | Horizontal | No | 33x18x38" | 295 lbs |
| C516VA8 | 60-Gal | Vertical | No | 34x20x68" | 335 lbs |
| C516VA8-S | 60-Gal | Vertical | Factory-mounted | 34x20x68" | ~335 lbs |
| C518VA8 | 80-Gal | Vertical | No | 32x24x66" | 435 lbs |
| C518HA8 | 80-Gal | Horizontal | No | 64x20x41" | 435 lbs |
When Does a Shop Need This vs. Stepping Up or Down?
The C516VA8 is the sweet spot for a shop with moderate air demand that wants a compact vertical footprint. The 60-gallon tank holds significantly more reserve than a 30-gallon unit — your pump cycles less and the system recovers faster between tool uses.
Step down to C513HA8 only if horizontal orientation is required and 30-gallon reserve is sufficient for your use pattern.
Step up to C518VA8 or C518VC1 (80-gallon) if your air demand is higher — more simultaneous tools, longer run times, or a busier shop schedule. The two-stage C518VC1 also makes sense if you need 175 PSI working pressure.
Factory Options
- Air Operated Auto Drain (#ADVSM): Automatic condensate drain
- Electronic Auto Drain (#SDV03M): Timer-controlled drain
- Belt Guard Aftercooler (#BGAC1M): 35 CFM — reduces moisture carry-over
- Vibration Pads (#VP1004): 4x4x1" rubber isolation pads (set of 4)
- Right From the Start Kit (#RFS001): Oil, pads, ball valve, flex hose, filter
What's in the Box
- Assembled compressor (pump, motor, 60-gallon vertical tank, belt drive)
- Rigid metal belt guard
- Copper discharge and unloader tube
- ASME safety valve and bleeder pressure switch
- Oil sight glass and paper element air filter/silencer
- Not included: Compressor oil, vibration pads, flex hose, magnetic starter
Why Buy From Air Compressor Factory Direct?
We specialize in commercial and industrial air compressors and carry the full Castair lineup. Free shipping. Free tech support at 866-217-0063. Full manufacturer warranty. We'll help you pick the right tank size and add the right accessories for your shop setup.
Call 866-217-0063 for quick answers and help!
