Castair I538HC2-S — 5 HP Three-Phase Industrial Air Compressor, 80 Gallon Horizontal
The Castair I538HC2-S is a 5 horsepower, three-phase industrial air compressor with an 80-gallon horizontal ASME-certified tank. It delivers 17.5 CFM at 175 PSI with the pump running at just 420 RPM — the slowest pump speed in the Castair Industrial Series lineup. If your shop has three-phase power and you need a compressor that'll run quietly all day without overheating, this is it.
Three-Phase Advantage
Three-phase motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than single-phase motors of the same horsepower. The tradeoff is that you need three-phase power in your shop. If you have it, you get a more reliable compressor that costs less to operate over its lifetime. If you're not sure whether your shop has three-phase, check your electrical panel or call your electrician.
Model I538HC2-S Specifications
- Horsepower: 5 HP
- Phase: Three-phase
- Tank: 80 gallon, horizontal configuration
- Pump RPM: 420
- CFM at 0 PSI: 22.0
- CFM at 175 PSI: 17.5
- Dimensions: 64" L x 20" W x 46" H
- Weight: 690 lbs
- ASME Certified tank
- Powder coated finish
Why 420 RPM Matters
Most compressor pumps run at 1,000 to 1,400+ RPM. The I538HC2-S runs at 420 RPM. That's not a typo. Slower pump speed means less heat generation, less wear on bearings and valves, and significantly quieter operation. Speed kills compressor pumps — Castair's approach is to make more air at a slower rate, which gives you a cooler, quieter machine with a much longer service life.
Cast Iron Pump Features
- Full cast iron construction — pump housing, cylinders, everything. Not aluminum like most competitors.
- Steel connecting rods with automotive-type rod insert bearings at crankshaft and wrist pin
- Tapered roller bearings on both ends of the crankshaft for superior support and less friction
- Stainless disc and spring valves — approximately 10x the lifespan of standard reed valves, and easy to service
- 4-ring pistons for higher efficiency and reduced oil carry-over
- Centrifugal unloader for load-less startup every time
Tank, Motor, and Controls
- Powder coated ASME tank with channel base
- ASME safety valves
- Totally enclosed metal belt guard
- Copper discharge and unloader tube
- Heavy-duty 1,725 RPM industrial motor with full 15% service factor
Right from the Start Kit Included
All Castair Industrial Series piston-driven compressors ship with the "Right from the Start" kit — everything you need for initial setup and break-in.
Shipping
Ships within two weeks of order placement. At 690 lbs, this ships freight. All orders receive a courtesy call to confirm conditions and application.
"Castair. Compressors Built Like They Used to Be."
Why Buy From Us?
- Authorized dealer since 2016
- Free ground shipping on orders over $100
- Free tech support from trained diagnostic staff
- Full manufacturer warranty on every product
Call 866-217-0063 for quick answers and help!


