The BelAire 338HE Elite Series delivers 5 HP, 18.5 CFM at 100 PSI and 16.6 CFM at 175 PSI from a belt-driven two-stage pump and an 80-gallon horizontal receiver. Its defining feature is a triple-pass, pump-mounted aftercooler, which cools compressed air before it reaches the tank so more moisture can condense at the compressor instead of traveling into your shop’s air lines. The unit operates on 208–230V three-phase power and includes a factory-installed magnetic starter. Note: the compressor measures approximately 71" × 24" × 49" and weighs 481 lbs, so confirm floor space, access and electrical service before installation.
The two-stage pump compresses air in two steps, cooling it between stages before the final compression cycle. Combined with the aftercooler, this helps control discharge temperature and reduces the amount of moisture reaching downstream equipment. That matters for paint work, pneumatic tools and other applications where water in the air system can damage equipment or affect results. The 80-gallon receiver can also store more compressed air at the 175 PSI maximum, giving the system a larger reserve at normal working pressures and potentially reducing how frequently the motor needs to cycle. A low-oil protection switch and oil sight glass provide additional pump protection, while the fully enclosed belt guard covers the drive system.
This compressor is a good fit for automotive service bays, paint and body shops, fabrication facilities and light industrial operations that already have 208–230V three-phase service. Its horizontal layout works well where floor space is available but a tall vertical receiver would be impractical. The manufacturer recommends a 30-amp breaker, while actual electrical requirements should be confirmed by a certified electrician based on the building, wire run and local code. The compressor should be installed on a level, solid floor with enough clearance around the pump for service and cooling airflow. An air dryer is not included; BelAire recommends the CPXHT25 separately for applications requiring additional compressed-air drying.
Specifications
Air delivery
| Delivered air at 100 PSI |
18.5 CFM |
| Delivered air at 175 PSI |
16.6 CFM |
| Maximum pressure |
175 PSI |
| Pump |
Two-stage, belt drive, aluminum with cast iron sleeve |
| Lubrication |
Oil lubricated, splash system, sight glass fitted |
Motor and electrical
| Motor |
5 HP |
| Supply |
208V or 230V, 3-phase |
| Recommended breaker |
30 amp |
| Amp draw |
Confirm with a certified electrician |
| Starter |
Magnetic starter included |
Tank, size and weight
| Receiver |
80-gallon, horizontal |
| Tank outlet |
3/4" |
| Length |
71" |
| Width |
24" |
| Height |
49" |
| Weight |
481 lbs |
Confirm the Tank Drain Before Plumbing
Published specifications disagree on the tank drain. One lists an electronic drain valve, another says it is not fitted, while BelAire's feature list describes an Elite Series automatic tank drain that is not electronic.
The sources agree that the drain is automatic and pressurized, rather than a manual petcock. If the exact drain type matters to your installation, ask us to confirm it with BelAire in writing before ordering.
Certification, Stated Plainly
The air receiver is built and stamped to the ASME pressure-vessel code, and BelAire states that the compressor is factory tested at full pressure. These claims apply to the tank.
We do not have a North American third-party electrical safety listing from an accredited testing laboratory on file for this unit. That is separate from pressure-vessel certification and covers the electrical components and controls.
If your insurer, facility policy or local electrical inspector requires an independent electrical listing, confirm the requirement with us before ordering. We will verify the available documentation with BelAire.
Shipping & Delivery
Ships by freight to the lower 48 states, with freight included.
Plan unloading before delivery. You will need a forklift or loading dock, or you can arrange terminal pickup. Residential delivery is available for an additional fee.
Inspect the shipment before signing. Check for a shifted skid, bent guard, damaged tank and oil marks. Record any damage on the delivery paperwork and take photographs with the driver present.
Warranty
The 338HE includes a 2-Year bumper-to-bumper factory warranty covering the complete machine, with no additional purchase required.
Record the serial number when the compressor is uncrated and keep it with your invoice.
If a problem develops, do not disassemble the pump, motor or pressure switch before opening a warranty claim. Contact us first so the manufacturer can evaluate the affected component intact.
Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for oil changes, belt tension and receiver draining.
