Castair I7312VC2-S: 7.5 HP Three-Phase Industrial Air Compressor, 120-Gallon Vertical Tank
The Castair I7312VC2-S is a 7.5 horsepower, three-phase industrial reciprocating air compressor on a 120-gallon vertical ASME tank with a factory-mounted aftercooler. This is the vertical tank version of the I7312HC2-S — same pump, same CFM output, same motor, but in a vertical configuration that trades a slightly wider floor footprint (44x30 inches) for a taller profile (75 inches high) versus the horizontal model at 69x24x50 inches.
Three-phase power at 7.5 HP with a 120-gallon tank is the top of the standard industrial single-compressor configuration before stepping into duplex or rotary screw territory. If your shop has three-phase service and consistently runs multiple technicians on air tools simultaneously, this is the unit to evaluate carefully against your actual CFM demand.
Why Three-Phase Over Single-Phase at 7.5 HP
- Motor efficiency: Three-phase motors are more efficient and run cooler at the same HP
- Smoother start: Three-phase motors start without capacitor banks — less electrical stress per cycle
- Unit weight: 820 lbs vs. 850 lbs for the I7112VC2-S single-phase equivalent
- Long-term reliability: Three-phase motors have fewer components and historically outlast single-phase motors in continuous industrial service
Technical Specifications
- Model: I7312VC2-S
- Horsepower: 7.5 HP
- Phase: Three-phase (3-phase)
- Tank capacity: 120 gallons
- Tank type: Vertical (VC)
- Pump RPM: 585
- Free air delivery (CFM @ 0 PSI): 35.0 CFM
- Delivery at working pressure (CFM @ 175 PSI): 28.1 CFM
- Maximum working pressure: 175 PSI
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 44 x 30 x 75 inches
- Weight: 820 lbs
- Aftercooler: Factory-mounted beltguard aftercooler included (#BGAC1M, 35 CFM rated)
C2 Pump — Industrial Cast Iron Construction
- All cast iron: Cylinder, head, crankcase
- Pump speed: 585 RPM
- Tapered roller bearings: Both ends of crankshaft
- Precision steel connecting rods: Automotive-type insert bearings
- Disc and spring valves: Serviceable, efficient, reliable
- 4-ring pistons: Better sealing, reduced oil carryover
- Centrifugal unloader: Loadless startup every cycle
I7312VC2-S vs. I7312HC2-S: Vertical vs. Horizontal
- I7312VC2-S (this unit): Vertical tank, 44x30x75 in., 820 lbs — taller, narrower base. Choose if floor space is at a premium and ceiling height is available.
- I7312HC2-S: Horizontal tank, 69x24x50 in., 820 lbs — same weight, lower profile, longer footprint. Choose if ceiling height is limited or horizontal plumbing connections work better for your layout.
When Does a Shop Need This vs. Stepping Up or Down?
Choose the I7312VC2-S if: Three-phase power is available, you need vertical tank space efficiency, and 28.1 CFM at 175 PSI with 120 gallons of storage covers your peak demand.
Step down to 80-gallon (I738VC2-S) if: Your shop demand does not require the extra tank buffer and you want to reduce cost and floor space.
Step up to 10 HP three-phase if: Peak demand regularly exceeds 28.1 CFM at 175 PSI — the next tier up delivers 35.0 CFM at 175 PSI.
Why Buy From Air Compressor Factory Direct?
We carry the complete Castair industrial lineup in vertical and horizontal configurations, single- and three-phase. Call us to confirm the voltage configuration (208/230/460V three-phase) and select the right factory options for your shop. Free shipping on qualifying orders. Free tech support. Full manufacturer warranty on every Castair industrial unit.
Call 866-217-0063 for quick answers and help!
