{"product_id":"castair-20-hp-3phase-rotary-screw-air-compressor-80-cfm-at-100-psi-120-gal-horiz-tank-460-r20312hg30","title":"Castair 20 HP 3Phase Rotary Screw Air Compressor 80 cfm at 100 psi 120 Gal Horiz Tank 460 R20312HG30","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCast Air R20312HG30-460 â€” 20HP 3-Phase Rotary Screw Air Compressor, 80 CFM at 100 PSI, 120-Gallon Horizontal Tank, 460V\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e80 CFM at 100 PSI. That is the number that matters. The Cast Air R20312HG30-460 is a 20HP 3-phase rotary screw compressor delivering confirmed 80 CFM at 100 PSI into a 120-gallon horizontal receiver tank, running on 460V 3-phase power. This is a production-grade shop infrastructure unit â€” the kind of compressor you install when your shop is running at capacity all day and you cannot afford to have air supply become the bottleneck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 460V configuration is the recommended choice at 20HP. Here is why that matters, and who this compressor is built for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat 80 CFM at 100 PSI Actually Enables\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpray guns:\u003c\/strong\u003e A single HVLP spray gun draws 12â€“15 CFM at operating pressure. At 80 CFM, you can run four to five spray guns simultaneously and still have 10â€“20 CFM available for the rest of the shop.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eImpact wrenches:\u003c\/strong\u003e A 1\/2\" air impact draws approximately 5â€“8 CFM. A 3\/4\" or 1\" impact draws 8â€“15 CFM. Multiple techs running impacts simultaneously is not a problem for an 80 CFM supply.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAir ratchets and die grinders:\u003c\/strong\u003e Die grinders are high-consumption tools at 8â€“12 CFM each. Body shops and custom shops running grinders heavily need real airflow, not a compressor that starves them mid-cut.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLifts and pneumatic equipment:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pneumatic lift controls, tire equipment, air blow guns, and utility air use adds up fast in a multi-bay shop. At 80 CFM, there is enough supply to cover the shop without tools competing for pressure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReal-world shop scenario:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two painters in booths (28â€“30 CFM), three technicians on impacts (15â€“24 CFM), a die grinder running (10 CFM), and miscellaneous tool use â€” the R20312HG30-460 handles that load without the compressor running wide open trying to keep up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e460V 3-Phase â€” Why This Is the Right Choice at 20HP\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHalf the amperage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The same 20HP motor that draws approximately 54â€“60 amps on 230V 3-phase draws only 27â€“30 amps on 460V 3-phase. This is basic motor physics â€” double the voltage, half the current for identical power output.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmaller wire runs:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lower amperage means smaller wire gauge is acceptable for the same run length. In a large facility where the panel is not adjacent to the compressor, this reduces materials cost and installation labor significantly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLess heat in the circuit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Heat in electrical circuits is proportional to the square of current (IÂ²R). Half the current means one-quarter the resistive heating in your wiring and connections. At sustained 20HP loads, this is meaningful for long-term reliability of your electrical infrastructure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmaller breaker:\u003c\/strong\u003e A 460V circuit for this unit requires a breaker in the 60â€“80A range (per NEC motor load rules). The equivalent 230V circuit requires 100â€“125A. At 460V, you may be able to use an existing panel slot that 230V could not accommodate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhen 230V is the answer instead:\u003c\/strong\u003e If your facility only has 208â€“240V 3-phase service, the R20312HG30-230 is the configuration you need. Do not try to adapt â€” the motor is wound for one voltage. Call us if you are unsure which service your building has.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eRotary Screw Design â€” All-Day Operation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eContinuous duty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rotary screw compressors operate at 100% duty cycle. There are no piston rods, no valve plates, no bearings that overheat from continuous cycling. The R20312HG30-460 can run all day through your production hours without thermal shutdown or reduced output.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConsistent pressure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Unlike reciprocating compressors that produce pulses, a rotary screw delivers a steady, continuous flow. For spray work especially, this consistency translates directly into finish quality â€” no micro-fluctuations in atomization pressure between strokes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuiet operation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rotary screw compressors are substantially quieter than reciprocating units of equivalent output. In a shop environment where techs and customers interact, and where painters need focused working conditions, this matters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance intervals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primary service items are oil changes, air\/oil separator replacement, and inlet filter service. Intervals vary by manufacturer recommendation â€” no valve kits or piston assemblies to manage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e120-Gallon Horizontal Tank\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDemand buffering:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 120-gallon receiver stores compressed air to absorb peak demand spikes. When multiple tools or spray guns kick on simultaneously, the receiver volume prevents the pressure drop that would otherwise occur while the compressor catches up to load.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHorizontal layout:\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard horizontal configuration sits low and against a wall, leaving the vertical space above clear. In most shop layouts, horizontal placement is straightforward to position and pipe.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondensate:\u003c\/strong\u003e At 80 CFM output, moisture production from the compressor is significant. Install an automatic drain valve on the tank. Also plan for refrigerated air dryer capacity to match 80 CFM output if clean, dry air is required downstream â€” especially for spray paint work.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWho Needs This Compressor vs. Who Should Consider 15HP\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eR20312HG30-460 is the right choice for:\u003c\/strong\u003e High-production body shops (two or more booths active daily), large fleet maintenance operations, industrial facilities, shops consistently hitting the ceiling of their current 15HP unit, and any operation planning to expand capacity in the near term.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe 15HP R15312 series is adequate for:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single-booth body shops, moderate-demand service shops, operations with intermittent peak demand rather than sustained high output. The 15HP units are also significantly lower cost â€” if you are not regularly pressing the limits of 15HP output, 20HP is headroom you are paying for but not using.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow to tell which you need:\u003c\/strong\u003e Track whether your current compressor cycles off during the workday. A compressor that never fully stops running is at its duty cycle limit and cannot handle any additional load. That is the signal to step up to 20HP.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eInstallation Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eElectrical service required:\u003c\/strong\u003e 460V 3-phase, dedicated circuit. Breaker sizing per NEC motor load rules â€” consult your electrician for local code compliance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVentilation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Allow adequate clearance around all sides for airflow. A 20HP rotary screw generates heat that must be exhausted from the compressor room. Inadequate ventilation shortens oil life and stresses the screw element.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAir treatment:\u003c\/strong\u003e At 80 CFM output, size your refrigerated dryer, coalescing filters, and distribution header to match this throughput. Undersized downstream equipment creates backpressure and reduces effective shop pressure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeader pipe sizing:\u003c\/strong\u003e For 80 CFM at moderate line lengths, consult a pipe sizing chart. Undersized header pipe is one of the most common causes of pressure drop complaints in shops that have the right compressor but undersized distribution.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConfirmed Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eModel:\u003c\/strong\u003e R20312HG30-460\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompressor type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rotary screw\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHorsepower:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20 HP\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePhase:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3-phase\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVoltage:\u003c\/strong\u003e 460V\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfirmed CFM:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80 CFM at 100 PSI\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank configuration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Horizontal\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank capacity:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional specs:\u003c\/strong\u003e Contact us for full dimensional data, weight, and service interval details\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Buy From OEM Diagnostic Tools?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecialist since 2016:\u003c\/strong\u003e We work with professional shops every day. We know what 80 CFM means to a body shop running two booths versus a service shop running three bays â€” and we give you real guidance on which unit fits your actual operation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFree shipping:\u003c\/strong\u003e A compressor of this size involves significant freight. We include it at no additional charge.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFree technical support:\u003c\/strong\u003e Call 866-217-0063. Before you order, we will walk through your shop's air demand, your electrical service, and any installation questions. After delivery, we are still here.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFull manufacturer warranty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Covered under Cast Air's standard warranty. We handle the warranty process â€” you work with us, not a manufacturer 1-800 line.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHonest advice:\u003c\/strong\u003e If your shop genuinely does not need 80 CFM at 100 PSI, we will tell you that and point you to a better-fit unit. A satisfied customer who bought the right compressor is worth more to us than a return.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCall 866-217-0063 for quick answers and help!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the duty cycle on the R20312HG30-460, and how does it compare to a piston compressor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe R20312HG30-460 is a rotary screw compressor rated for 100% continuous duty — it can run all day without the thermal cycling that limits piston compressors to 60–70% duty cycles. A 20 HP piston unit running continuous production loads will overheat and wear prematurely; this machine is built for exactly that kind of demand. If your shop runs air-hungry tools back-to-back through a full shift, rotary screw is the correct technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat electrical service does the R20312HG30-460 require?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis unit runs on 460V 3-phase power and draws approximately 27–28 amps full load, so you'll need a dedicated 40-amp 3-phase circuit with appropriate wire gauge for your run length. If your facility is currently on single-phase or 208V 3-phase, this compressor is not compatible without a phase converter or transformer — confirm your panel before ordering. A licensed electrician should verify the service before installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat oil change interval should I follow on a Cast Air rotary screw?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCast Air rotary screw units typically call for the first oil change at 500 hours, then every 2,000 hours thereafter under normal operating conditions — always verify against the manual included with the R20312HG30-460 since intervals can vary by fluid type. Cast Air specifies their own compressor oil; using an incompatible lubricant can void the warranty and accelerate wear on the screw element. Keep a log — rotary screw oil intervals are longer than piston, but skipping them is how you turn a $15,000 machine into an expensive repair bill.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow loud is the R20312HG30-460, and can it be installed in an occupied workspace?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRotary screw compressors run significantly quieter than comparable piston units — a 20 HP rotary screw typically operates in the 68–72 dB(A) range versus 85+ dB(A) for a reciprocating piston at the same horsepower. The R20312HG30-460 can realistically be installed in a shop environment without a separate compressor room, though local codes and your specific layout may still warrant one. If noise is a firm requirement, call us at 866-217-0063 and we can walk you through the specs and mounting options for your situation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat CFM output does the R20312HG30-460 deliver, and what tools will it support?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 20 HP Cast Air rotary screw in this class typically delivers in the range of 80–85 CFM at 100 PSI — sufficient to simultaneously run multiple impact wrenches, a sandblast cabinet, plasma cutter air supply, or continuous spray finishing operations. For reference, a 1-inch impact wrench pulls 15–25 CFM and a medium sandblast cabinet runs 50–100 CFM depending on nozzle size, so this machine handles demanding multi-tool environments that would stall a smaller unit. Confirm exact rated CFM on the unit nameplate, as Cast Air publishes tested output rather than theoretical figures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What is the duty cycle on the R20312HG30-460, and how does it compare to a piston compressor?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"The R20312HG30-460 is a rotary screw compressor rated for 100% continuous duty — it can run all day without the thermal cycling that limits piston compressors to 60–70% duty cycles. A 20 HP piston unit running continuous production loads will overheat and wear prematurely; this machine is built for exactly that kind of demand. If your shop runs air-hungry tools back-to-back through a full shift, rotary screw is the correct technology.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What electrical service does the R20312HG30-460 require?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"This unit runs on 460V 3-phase power and draws approximately 27–28 amps full load, so you'll need a dedicated 40-amp 3-phase circuit with appropriate wire gauge for your run length. If your facility is currently on single-phase or 208V 3-phase, this compressor is not compatible without a phase converter or transformer — confirm your panel before ordering. A licensed electrician should verify the service before installation.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What oil change interval should I follow on a Cast Air rotary screw?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Cast Air rotary screw units typically call for the first oil change at 500 hours, then every 2,000 hours thereafter under normal operating conditions — always verify against the manual included with the R20312HG30-460 since intervals can vary by fluid type. Cast Air specifies their own compressor oil; using an incompatible lubricant can void the warranty and accelerate wear on the screw element. Keep a log — rotary screw oil intervals are longer than piston, but skipping them is how you turn a $15,000 machine into an expensive repair bill.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How loud is the R20312HG30-460, and can it be installed in an occupied workspace?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Rotary screw compressors run significantly quieter than comparable piston units — a 20 HP rotary screw typically operates in the 68–72 dB(A) range versus 85+ dB(A) for a reciprocating piston at the same horsepower. The R20312HG30-460 can realistically be installed in a shop environment without a separate compressor room, though local codes and your specific layout may still warrant one. If noise is a firm requirement, call us at 866-217-0063 and we can walk you through the specs and mounting options for your situation.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What CFM output does the R20312HG30-460 deliver, and what tools will it support?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"A 20 HP Cast Air rotary screw in this class typically delivers in the range of 80–85 CFM at 100 PSI — sufficient to simultaneously run multiple impact wrenches, a sandblast cabinet, plasma cutter air supply, or continuous spray finishing operations. For reference, a 1-inch impact wrench pulls 15–25 CFM and a medium sandblast cabinet runs 50–100 CFM depending on nozzle size, so this machine handles demanding multi-tool environments that would stall a smaller unit. Confirm exact rated CFM on the unit nameplate, as Cast Air publishes tested output rather than theoretical figures.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Cast Air","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53342578737365,"sku":"R20312HG30-460","price":27823.48,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0622\/8466\/0949\/files\/Logo1_426f0625-ad3f-4f10-a46a-f513f133fe1f.webp?v=1772652828","url":"https:\/\/aircompressorfactorydirect.com\/products\/castair-20-hp-3phase-rotary-screw-air-compressor-80-cfm-at-100-psi-120-gal-horiz-tank-460-r20312hg30","provider":"Air Compressor Factory Direct","version":"1.0","type":"link"}