The BelAire 318H is a 5 HP two-stage air compressor with an 80-gallon horizontal ASME tank, built for 230V single-phase service and designed for shops where ceiling height is the limiting factor. Its horizontal layout keeps the tank to approximately 49 inches tall, while the belt-driven pump uses aluminum construction with cast iron cylinder sleeves, stainless steel valves, and an integrated aftercooler. One important purchase detail: the magnetic starter is not included on this model and must be sourced separately or provided through suitable existing switchgear. BelAire recommends a 40 Amp breaker, with final electrical sizing handled by a qualified electrician.
The two-stage pump compresses air in two steps to reach a maximum working pressure of 175 PSI, while the aftercooler reduces discharge temperature before compressed air enters the receiver. Stainless steel valves are designed to withstand the heat and pressure inside the pump, and the oil sight glass makes routine lubrication checks easy. The fully enclosed high-flow belt guard protects the drive components while allowing the flywheel to move cooling air around the pump. BelAire's published 318-Series data lists 18.5 CFM at 100 PSI, but the available information does not provide a fully verified delivered-air figure at every pressure, so buyers sizing the compressor for a specific continuous-demand tool should confirm the appropriate rating before ordering.
The 318H is a practical choice for low-ceiling garages, small automotive shops, restoration spaces, and serious home workshops with adequate single-phase electrical capacity. Its horizontal receiver works well beneath mezzanines, garage door tracks, or other overhead obstructions where an 80-gallon vertical compressor would not fit. The tradeoff is floor space: at roughly 71 inches long and 24 inches wide, it needs a dedicated footprint along a wall or work area. Buyers should also plan for the separate magnetic starter, along with any required air treatment, filtration, regulation, and shop plumbing.
Specifications
Motor and electrical supply
| Rated power |
5 HP |
| Supply |
230 Volt AC, 1-phase; the motor can be wired for either standard single-phase shop voltage |
| Magnetic starter |
Not included — BelAire part 0000052006, sold separately |
| Recommended breaker |
40 Amp |
| Amp draw |
Not published — consult a certified electrician |
Pump and output
| Pump type |
Two-stage, belt drive, splash lubricated, aluminium with cast iron sleeve |
| Valves |
Stainless steel |
| Aftercooler |
Fitted |
| Maximum pressure |
175 PSI |
| Delivered air |
The 318-Series specification block records 18.5 cubic feet per minute rated at 100 PSI. We would rather you confirm that with us in writing than design an air system around a figure carried in a field with no unit attached. |
| Factory test |
100% of units tested at full pressure |
Tank, size and weight
| Tank |
80 gallon, horizontal, ASME certified, with safety relief valve |
| Outlet |
3/4" |
| Overall |
71" long × 24" wide × 49" high |
| Weight |
491 lbs |
Certification, Stated Plainly
The receiver is an ASME-certified pressure vessel with a safety relief valve, and BelAire states that each unit is factory tested at 100% of full pressure. These claims apply to the receiver, which operates at up to 175 PSI.
The available data does not claim a third-party safety listing for the complete machine. Manufacturer testing is not the same as independent listing, and some insurers, facility standards and local electrical inspectors require the latter for hard-wired shop equipment.
We will not imply a listing that is not documented. If one is required for your installation, confirm it with us before ordering—especially since this model uses a separate starter, making part of the electrical setup dependent on your installation.
Shipping & Receiving
Ships by palletized freight to the lower 48 states, with freight included.
Plan unloading before delivery. The carrier delivers the pallet to the tailgate, so you will need a forklift, loading dock or pallet jack with level ground. If unloading equipment is unavailable, terminal pickup is an alternative. Residential deliveries carry an additional fee.
Inspect before signing. Record any damage on the bill of lading with the driver present and photograph it before accepting the shipment. Damage reported after a clean signature can be difficult to recover.
Warranty
BelAire provides a 2-Year full factory warranty on the 318H, with no additional purchase required.
If a fault develops, do not disassemble the pump before opening a warranty claim. Keep the pump intact so the manufacturer can assess the failure. Contact us first and we will help start the claim.
