The BelAire 438VL Iron Series is a 7.5 HP three-phase compressor with a solid cast iron two-stage pump, an 80-gallon vertical ASME tank, and a factory-installed magnetic starter. Its key advantage is dual-voltage capability: the motor can be configured for 208V or 230V three-phase service, allowing one model to work with either common shop supply. Published airflow is approximately 22–23 CFM at 100 PSI and 19 CFM at 175 PSI. Note: the source contains conflicting airflow and voltage information, including one isolated 460V reference, so confirm the factory configuration and delivered-air rating before ordering.
The two-stage pump compresses air in two steps, allowing the compressor to reach 175 PSI while handling compression heat more effectively than a single-stage design. The pump uses solid cast iron construction, automotive-style rod bearings and wrist pins, belt drive, splash lubrication, and an oil sight glass for routine maintenance. The 80-gallon receiver provides reserve capacity for heavier workloads, while the vertical design conserves floor space. BelAire recommends the larger CPXHT50 air dryer for this model, which is not included, making proper downstream moisture control an important consideration for painting, finishing, and other applications where water in the air line can cause problems.
At approximately 37" × 24" × 72", the 438VL is suited to busy automotive shops, fleet and agricultural maintenance facilities, and light industrial operations with either 208V or 230V three-phase service. Its dual-voltage design is also useful for businesses that may relocate and encounter a different three-phase supply later. The source does not publish a breaker size, so have a qualified electrician size the circuit and conductors for your actual voltage and installation. Allow sufficient clearance around the pump, belt guard, drain, and upper plumbing, and plan for the compressor's roughly 600-lb weight during delivery and positioning.
Specifications
Motor and electrical supply
| Rated power |
7.5 HP |
| Supply |
460V AC, 3-phase |
| Magnetic starter |
Included |
| Breaker / amp draw |
Not published by BelAire — consult a certified electrician |
Pump and output
| Pump type |
Two-stage, solid cast iron, belt drive, splash lubricated |
| Delivered air at 100 PSI |
Disputed. 23 CFM per the description and specification block; 18.5 CFM per the feature list. Both are printed here beside their source — confirm with us in writing before you order. |
| Delivered air at 175 PSI |
21 CFM |
| Maximum pressure |
175 PSI |
Tank and outlet
| Tank |
80 gallon, vertical, ASME certified, safety relief valve |
| Outlet |
3/4" |
| Drain |
Published inconsistently across the sources for this model: the feature list says a manual air tank drain, one specification field records an electronic drain valve as fitted and another records it as not fitted. If an automatic drain is part of why you are buying, get it confirmed in writing first. |
Size and weight
| Overall |
37" long × 24" wide × 72" high |
| Weight |
600 lbs |
Certification, Stated Plainly
The tank is an ASME-certified pressure vessel with a safety relief valve. That is the certification claimed in the product data for the 175 PSI receiver.
The available data does not claim a third-party safety listing for the complete packaged machine, and we will not imply one. A manufacturer’s certification is not the same as an independent listing, and some insurers, plant standards and electrical inspectors require the latter specifically. If that applies to your installation, ask us before ordering and we will confirm the available documentation with BelAire in writing.
We would rather clarify that requirement now than have a missing listing become an inspection issue later.
Freight & Receiving
Ships palletized by freight throughout the lower 48 states, with freight included.
Plan unloading before the truck arrives. The carrier delivers to the tailgate, so you will need a forklift, loading dock or pallet jack with level ground. If none is available, terminal pickup is an alternative. Residential addresses carry an additional fee.
Inspect before signing. Check the compressor for shipping damage and record any issues on the bill of lading while the driver is present. A clean signed receipt can make a freight damage claim difficult to pursue.
Warranty
BelAire provides 2-Year bumper-to-bumper factory coverage for consumer and commercial use, with no additional purchase required.
If a problem develops, do not disassemble the pump before opening a warranty claim. Keep the assembly intact so the manufacturer can assess the failure. Contact us first and let us start the claim.
