The BelAire 318VE Elite Series delivers a practical combination of 5 HP, two-stage compression and an 80-gallon vertical receiver for shops that need industrial air without three-phase power. What sets this model apart is its built-in maintenance protection: a pressurized automatic tank drain removes condensate without relying on someone to remember a daily drain routine, while a low-oil protection switch shuts the pump down before low lubrication can cause damage. It runs on 208–230V single-phase power and includes a factory-fitted magnetic starter.
The automatic drain and pump-mounted triple-pass aftercooler work together to manage one of the biggest problems in compressed-air systems: moisture. The aftercooler reduces discharge-air temperature before it reaches the receiver, helping moisture separate inside the system instead of traveling through shop piping. The automatic drain then removes accumulated condensate from the tank. Meanwhile, the solid cast-iron two-stage pump uses stainless steel valves, and the low-oil switch provides an extra safeguard for the splash-lubricated pump. The vertical 80-gallon ASME-certified tank also saves floor space compared with a horizontal design. Practical note: the unit measures approximately 77" tall and weighs 428 lbs, so confirm ceiling clearance, access and a suitable installation surface before delivery.
This compressor is a strong fit for owner-operated garages, small automotive shops and service facilities without three-phase power. It also makes sense for compressors installed in back rooms or less-visible areas where daily maintenance tasks can easily be missed. If your shop has usable ceiling height but limited floor space, the vertical layout and automatic maintenance features make the 318VE a sensible stationary air solution.
Specifications
Pump and air system
| Pump |
Two-stage, belt drive, solid cast iron |
| Valves |
Stainless steel |
| Aftercooler |
Triple-pass, pump mounted |
| Maximum pressure |
175 PSI |
| Airflow rating pressure |
100 PSI — see the note below on the delivered-air figure |
| Lubrication |
Oil lubricated, splash system, sight glass and low oil switch |
Motor and supply
| Motor |
5 HP |
| Supply |
208-230V, 1-Phase |
| Recommended breaker |
40 amp |
| Amp draw |
Confirm with a certified electrician |
| Starter |
Magnetic starter included |
Tank and dimensions
| Receiver |
80-gallon, vertical, ASME certified, 100% factory tested |
| Drain |
Automatic, pressurised, not electronic |
| Tank outlet |
3/4" |
| Footprint |
39" by 24" |
| Overall height |
77" |
| Weight |
428 lbs |
One Figure We Are Not Publishing
We do not have a delivered-air rating for the 318VE that we are confident enough to print. The sources we hold state it inconsistently, and airflow is precisely the specification a buyer sizes a tool list against. Getting it wrong by a few CFM can be the difference between a compressor that keeps up and one that does not.
So we have left the figure off the page rather than publish a number we cannot stand behind. If delivered air at 100 PSI is decisive for you, ask us and we will obtain the manufacturer's rating for this model in writing before you order. Everything else here is based on BelAire's published specification for the machine.
Certification, Stated Honestly
The receiver is an ASME-certified pressure vessel, and BelAire states that it is 100% factory tested at full pressure. Those are specific, checkable claims concerning the tank.
We do not hold documentation for a North American third-party electrical safety listing for this complete compressor. That is separate from pressure-vessel certification and may concern the motor, starter and electrical controls. Some insurers, corporate facility policies and local inspectors require specific electrical documentation. If that may apply to your installation, establish the requirement and ask us before ordering so we can confirm what documentation is available.
Delivery
Ships by freight within the lower 48 states, with the rate quoted live at checkout for your delivery address.
Plan unloading before delivery. You will need a forklift or loading dock, or you can choose terminal pickup and collect the shipment yourself. Residential delivery is available and carries a residential fee.
Because this unit ships upright on a skid, inspect it for leaning or shifting as well as visible damage to the tank, guard and packaging. Look for signs of oil leakage, record any damage on the delivery paperwork, and photograph the shipment before the driver leaves. Freight damage is much easier to address when it is documented at delivery.
Warranty
A 2-Year factory warranty applies to this machine. Record the serial number when the compressor arrives and keep it with your invoice and warranty documentation.
If a fault develops, report it before disassembling the pump, motor or pressure switch. The manufacturer may need to inspect the affected component in its failed condition, so keep the machine intact until you receive instructions on the claim.
Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, including oil changes and belt-tension checks. The automatic drain reduces routine manual draining, but it should still be checked periodically to confirm that it is operating correctly.
