Air Compressors With 120 Gallon Tanks
When you have an industrial-sized job to do, you need an industrial-sized air compressor. The 120-gallon tank air compressor is one of the largest available for use with industrial equipment.
Air compressors of this capacity are typically used in factories and workshops, where they power heavy-duty pneumatic equipment, hoists, pumps, controls, and turbines, among others.
Large, 120-gallon units have ample room for cooling systems, meaning they are far less prone to overheating. Therefore, they are more likely to provide a consistent power source but are less likely to break down from overuse.
When you are looking for a reliable 120-gallon air compressor, you should consider a variety of qualities, such as the air compressor’s tank size, its ease of maintenance and parts replacement, the air compressor’s noise level, weight, and portability, among other traits.
The CFM (cubic feet per minute) and the PSI (pounds per square inch) of your air compressor are inversely proportional. This means they affect one another. Therefore, the higher the CFM, the lower the PSI can be, and, conversely, a high PSI will require a lower CFM to be functional.
A 120-gallon tank is just about one of the largest sizes you can get on an air compressor. They are used to power industrial equipment and are typically not for DIY usage.
These air compressors aren’t for small jobs. You mostly find this type of air compressor used in workshops and factories, where they are needed to power heavy-duty pneumatic equipment.
According to our testing, the HPDAVV Total Rotary Screw Air Compressor meets the above-mentioned criteria, making it the best model for large jobs. With an immense 3-phase, 20 hp electric motor and a maximum PSI of 125-150, these compressors are more powerful, sturdier, and more reliable than the other, comparable 120-gallon air compressor options.
Top 120 Gallon Air Compressors
| Product name | CFM | Max PSI | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|---|
| HPDAVV Total Rotary Screw Air Compressor | 80 SCFM | 150 PSI | 20 HP |
| Schulz Air Compressor 10HP | 40 SCFM | 175 | 10 HP |
| Quincy Duplex Air Compressor | 45 SCFM | 175 | 7.5 HP |
| OEMTOOLS 10HP 26104 230V | 35 SCFM | 175 | 10 HP |
| Industrial Air IH9929910 | 34 SCFM | 175 | 10 HP |
| Ingersoll-Rand (2545E10V-FP) | 35 SCFM | 175 | 10 HP |
| Champion 50787 | 42 SCFM | 175 | 25 HP |
| DeWalt DXCMH9919910 | 34 SCFM | 175 | 10 HP |
| Flexzilla Pro Air | 38 SCFM | 175 | 10 HP |
1.HPDAVV Total Rotary Screw Air Compressor
First up is the Total Rotary air compressor by HPDAVV. Its heart is a massive 3-phase, 20 hp electric motor that generates a whopping 15 K.W. of power.
This powerful motor powers a rotary screw type air compressor. It has a horizontally mounted 120 Gallon thank that is good for a max pressure of 150 PSI.
Efficient Rotary Screw Compression
This air compressor uses a rotary screw pump which is much more energy-efficient than a piston based system. Piston compressors operate at internal temperatures of 300°F – 400°F, while a rotary screw compressor runs at much lower internal temperatures (between 170°F and 200°F).
Modular Design
All of its components are easily accessible and are specifically designed for fast and easy maintenance. All you need to do to keep this machine up and running is to make sure you change the oil and filters when the manufacturer recommends.
Other than that, these things are pretty carefree. This machine uses a spin-on air oil separator. This significantly reduces the oil content of the compressed air coming out of the machine by filtering the return oil.
High Tech Control System
It has quite a sophisticated control system. This air compressor uses a computerized system to monitor itself and it has a digital control panel with a graphical LCD display that can be used to change settings and monitor system functions.
The system will even tell you if something is wrong with your air compressor, or if its time for regular maintenance.
Standard Warranty
HPDAVV is known for standing by their products and this 120 gallon air compressor is no acceptation. They provide this model with a 2 year factory warranty for the air-end and a 1 year warranty for the rest of the machine.
The generous warranty on the air end even includes lifetime maintenance.
Pros
- High energy efficiency
- Powerful motor
- Smart Controls
Cons
- Weighs more than half a ton
- The only 1-year limited warranty
HPDAVV Total Rotary Screw Air Compressor With Tank & Refrigerated Dryer - 20HP/ 15KW - 81CFM/ 150PSI - 230 V/ 3-Phase/ 60Hz - 80 Gallon All-in-One Side Industrial Air Compressed System
Features
- 【Parameters】 Power : 20HP / 15KW ;Voltage : Input Voltage ( V / Hz ) : 230V/60Hz ; Electrical ( Phase ) : 3ph ;Air Flow : 81-71 cfm ;Max Working Pressure : 125-150 psi / 8-10 bar ;Full Load Amps : 47 ; Output Pipe Diameter : NPT1".
- 【Application】It widely used for production, pharmaceutical, textile, auto repair, aviation, metallurgical and other industrial fields.
- 【Spin-on Air Oil Separator】 Spin-on Air Oil Separator is an integrated separator with element and its own housing. It offers an easy and quick replacing solution for maintenance of air compressors. It significantly reduces oil content of compressed air and returned the filtered oil to compressor air end.
- 【Modular Design】All components are easily accessible for fast easy maintenance. Annual maintenance operations only include changing the filters and oil at predetermined intervals. Oil and Separator filters are spin-on style. Inexpensive parts and oil combine with long operating intervals to deliver significant savings over the life of the machine.
- 【Standard Warranty】HPDAVV provided with one-year warranty,the air end with two-year warranty and lifetime maintenance. We also have some of the best air supplier are able to support the after-sales services.
2. Schulz 3 Phase 120 Gallon Air Compressor
This heavy duty air compressor by Schulz has a powerful 10 HP 3-phase variable voltage motor that operates at either 208, 230, or 460 Volts. It also has a 120-gallon horizontal tank made of 100% cast iron that is ASME certified.
If you are looking for a reliable work horse that can be installed in a range of different industrial applications with varying voltages, then this may be what you are looking for.
2 Stage Air Compression Efficiency
This air compressor utilizes a 2 stage design. This means that the incoming air is compressed in two separate passes before its stored in the air tank.
This makes it so that to achieve a particular amount of pressure, less engine performance is needed. Using this layout gives this air compressor a better bank for your buck than a single stage model.
More Than Enough Air For Any Project
This machine’s consistent operation is made possible by a high-quality magnetic starter and a very efficient inter-cooler system. The compressors air tank is good for a max pressure of 175 PSI. To put this in perspective, most smaller air compressors hover around the 100 to 150 PSI mark.
Having such a high pressure means that you wont have any problem powering whatever tool you need to with this machine. Its air flow rate is 50 CFM, but like all other air compressors, expect that figure to drop as max PSI is approached.
Difficult To Install
There is a lot to like about this 120 gallon air compressor, but it’s not what we would consider simple to install.
This is a high voltage unit so it must be installed installed and serviced by a qualified electrician only. If that’s an issue for you, you may want to consider a different model.
Warranty
The compressor’s inline pump is splash lubricated and comes with a 2-year warranty. There is a one-year limited warranty on all other components.
We would have liked to see a 2 year warranty on the entire machine, but at least the pump itself has decent warranty coverage.
Pros
- Highly-effective magnetic starter
- 2-year warranty on the pump
- 100% cast iron tank
Cons
- Limited warranty on the other components
- Rather difficult to install
- Too heavy
Schulz Air Compressor 10HP L-SERIES, 40 CFM 175 PSI 120 GALLON NEW 3PH
3. DeWalt DXCMH9919910 Two-Stage Cast Iron Industrial Air Compressor
This two-stage air compressor has a large capacity to handle heavier pneumatic tools. The 120-gallon tank and the two-stage pump guarantee you’ll never run short of compressed air when in the middle of something.
Great Looking 120 Gallon Air Compressor Design
Nothing quiet catches the eye like a DeWalt manufactured machine. That signature yellow-ish/orange-ish color coupled with a matte black finish. Something about DeWalts layouts and color schemes are always just so pleasing to the eye.
But like all other DeWalt products, its never just form over function. This air compressor is designed to work, it just happens to also look good.
Single Motor, Two Compression Stages
This air compressor may only have 1 motor, but its a powerful one. Its a 10 HP unit, which is about 30% more powerful than the motors you’d find on a duplex air compressor.
The single large motor powers 2 compression stages so that the air is pressurized not once, but twice, before it enters the tank.
Long Lasting Pump Design
In addition to the powerful 3 phase motor, this air compressor has a uniquely-designed belt guard and cast iron flywheel that ensures a better cooled and longer lasting pump.
Also, this air compressor system by DeWalt features an extra capacity oil reservoir to ensure cooler oil temperatures.
Warranty
The DeWalt model DXCMH9919910 comes with a 2 Year limited factory warranty, but if you purchase and use an official DeWalt maintenance kit, it doubles the warranty on the pump!
Pros
- Excellent quality of the parts and assembly guaranteed by DeWalt
- The two-stage pump delivers more power
- The extra capacity of the oil reservoir guarantees lower oil temperature
Cons
- This unit is hefty
- Can create serious logistical issues
4. Flexzilla Pro Air Compressor with Silencer – Quietest And Most Compact 120 Gallon Air Compressor
The Flexzilla Pro Air is an upright-standing low-footprint air compressor that packs quite a punch. It’s 10 HP electric motor delivers 38 CFM at 175 maximum PSI! This air compressor is great for a company that may have a limited work area.
And Now For Something Completely Different
Unlike all the other 120 gallon air compressors in this article, this unit has a vertically mounted tank. It really stands out with its lime green color and control pump components and control box.
It makes for a really clean design that doesn’t take up much floor space. Not only does it take up the least amount of space, but its also the quietest 120 gallon air compressor.
Super Quiet 120 Gallon Air Compressor
This is currently the only 120-gallon air compressor on the market that’s got a silencer. This is a noise suppression system that reduces low-frequency noise levels.
It dissipates the compressor’s intake noise by channeling the air through a series of baffles, reducing dB levels by up to 25%.
Phenomenal Warranty
Flexzilla is VERY generous regarding the warranty on this model. There is a 6 year warranty on all components! Not just the pump or the tank, but on everything. This has the best warranty as compared to any other compressor on this list.
Packed With Features
This air compressor is loaded great features such as a belt tension adjuster for quick and easy maintenance, an automatic tank drain system that removes condensation, and security features such as a pressure switch, brass valves, an ASME-certified tank, and a heavy, steel OSHA-approved belt guard.
Pros
- The only silent compressor on the market
- Extra cooling for the pump
- Automatic tank drain
- The longest warranty in the industry
Cons
- Relatively high price
- Quite heavy
5. OEMTOOLS Model 26104 10HP 120 Gallon Air Compressor – 2 Year Warranty
This 120 gallon air compressor is mostly used to power impact guns, ratchets, grinders, sanders, pneumatic drills, and similar tools and equipment.
This is a heavy-duty, industry-class model that has been built to last. It operates without any problems in all weather, including sweltering heat.
Low RPM, High PSI
The maximum operating pressure of this unit is about 125 PSI, while it can easily deliver 35 CFM at 100 PSI. The max tank pressure is 175 PSI.
The heavy-duty cast iron pump is built for high performance and maximum durability. It operates at a low RPM, which further adds to the durability of the system.
Design
Like other OEMTOOLS air compressors, this model features a clean white tank with jet black pump components. This provides a clean look to your shop or garage, and it’s neutral colors blend in with just about anything.
Accessories Included
The unit’s package includes a starter, as well as some oil and air filters. For all of its hard work and versatility, this compressor doesn’t require significant maintenance or servicing.
Its got a heavy belt flow guard that ensures optimal cooling efficiency. The unit also includes tank and safety valves that meet all ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) standards.
Finally a Decent Warranty
Unlike the other air compressors on this list so far, OEMTOOL’s model 26104 comes with a full 2 year factory warranty. Everything in this piece of equipment is covered under this 2 year warranty. Not just the pump, or the motor, or the tank. Everything.
Pros
- Heavy-duty parts & minimum maintenance required
- Suitable for DIY and industrial purposes
- Starter included in the package
Cons
- Difficult to transport
- Vibrations may occur during operation
6. Industrial Air IH9929910
This is a really powerful air compressor by Industrial Air that has a propriety pump design to increase efficiency and output power. This machine can output 35 CFM at 90 PSI, and at its max tank pressure of 175 PSI it can still push 33.6 CFM.
Designed With Efficiency And Easy Operation in Mind
The construction of this compressor’s pistons also provides maximum efficiency, allowing the unit to power several pneumatic tools simultaneously. The compressor has a 10-HP motor and a mounted starter that guarantees swift and easy operation.
Another Great Warranty
In addition, the metal belt guard and the asymmetrical cooling fins ensure efficient cooling of the compressor by up to 60 degrees F. Like the model discussed above, this compressor has a two-year top to bottom factory warranty.
This model comes with a few bells and whistles than the ones we’ve review so far. These include an extended tank drain valve and vibration isolators.
A 120 Gallon Air Compressor Thats Made in The USA
This 120 gallon air compressor is 100% made in America. It’s perfect for industrial purposes. In fact, the factories right here in america that make these pumps also use them to operate some of their equipment.
These factories install pumps in these air compressors that use a patented design that allows for maximum efficiency and pump life.
Pros
- Pump and pistons designed to maximize efficiency
- Stays 50% cooler than other compressors
- 2-year warranty on all parts
Cons
- Relatively pricey
- Quite loud while in use
- Some vibrations can still be felt
7. Ingersoll-Rand (2545E10V-FP) – Best Features
Compact and powerful, this 120-gallon air compressor is ideal for small vehicle paint shops, where space is limited. It has a 100% duty cycle, and an innovative way of controlling its motors.
Intelligent Motor Control System
The Ingersoll Rand 2545E20V-EP delivers a total of 20 HP intelligently and efficiently. It has two 10-HP motors with a single starter that are mounted on the same tank.
It’s computerized management system turns on and off each compressor as needed. This provides a cost savings by using only the power you need, while being able to also evenly place load on the pumps.
A 120 Gallon Air Compressor That Never Stops Working
A lot of other air compressors have some sort of maximum run time. When this time is reached, the compressor must rest for a cool down period. This length of time varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
In contrast, the intelligent motor management system in this Ingersoll Rand air compressor makes sure that you never have to stop working.
Automatic Moisture Control
This air compressor compresses the air not once, but twice. After that, the air is passed through a cooling system that not only reduces the air’s temperature, but it also reduces its moisture content by 75%. It features an automatic drain to clear out any moisture that does end up in the tank.
This air compressor’s motor management system includes the ability to shut down the system if it sees that you’re running low on oil. Its the nice touches like this that make Ingersoll Rand air compressors stand out from the rest.
Accessories Not Included
Unfortunately, this air compressor doesn’t come with everything you need in the box. Like a lot of other Ingersoll Grand air compressors, you have to buy a start up kit to get it up and running.
And remember, this is a duplex system, so you’ll have to buy two starter kits. The kit you will need is Ingersoll Rand item #15920081. Requires two Ingersoll Rand start-up kits, Item# 15920081 (sold separately).
Pros
- Compact and powerful
- The seamless alternation between motors and pumps
- Easy maintenance
Cons
- Not suitable for DIY purposes
- Noise levels require the use of headphones
Buyers Guide
Before buying a 120 gallon air compressor, there are a few key factors to consider. These things include portability, power, and noise level. Also, it’s important to understand some of the terms used when discussing air compressors such as dB, PSI, and HP.
PSI: Air Pressure
Air pressure inside the tank is given in PSI (Pounds per Square Inch), with most compressors having 115 PSI, which is slightly higher than the 90 PSI required by most air tools. Its not unusual to find powerful compressors with as much as 150 PSI, though.
CFM: Cubic Feet per Minute
More important is the amount of air coming from a compressor over a period of time. This is know as CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). If you are using a tool continuously, you will need to supply higher CFM.
That is why a continually rotating smoother uses 8 CFM, while a framing nailer works with just 2.8 CFM. From a professional’s experience, determining the minimum rating for CFM is simple if you have the tool rating as given by the manufacturer.
Take the rating and multiply it by 1.5. For example, if the rating on the tool is 2 CFM, the minimum requirement to power, it should be 3 CFM. Concentrate on the CFM rating at 90 PSI (Pound per Square Inch), as most tools run on this weight.
HP: Horsepower
Horsepower is a measure of the capability of the motor. Since the capacity of the engine has a massive impact on every aspect of compressor performance, you want to pay attention to this.
Because of the rampant inflation of indicated HP, focus on the rated amperage to determine the power of the engine.
dB: Noise Level
These are machines with several moving parts that are powered by gasoline engines. None of them are going to be quiet machines. Metal components banging against each other can be extremely loud.
Noise levels are measure in dB (decibels). Note that the increase is exponential, meaning that 60 dB is more than three times 20 dB.
If you will be working indoors, you want to make sure to get a model with the lowest possible dB rating. If you are out in the open, you get get by with a little higher dB without it becoming an issue.
Compressor Tank Size
If you are using several tools continuously, you’ll need a larger tank. If your tank is too small for the job, your motor will have to do more work to compensate. This can be loud and expensive.
In contrast, if you’re doing intermittent work you can get away with having a smaller tank size. Tanks can be as big as 80 gallons, although a single tool may only require up to 5 gallons. Therefore, in simple terms, the choice of tank size depends on the type of work and the type/number of tools being powered.
Larger tanks combine excellently with high PSI (Pound per Square Inch), but the shift towards portable units maintains the need for the right balance between PSI (Pound per Square Inch) and tank size.
80 Gallon Tanks Vs. 120 Gallon Tanks
As a rule, most of the 120 gallon air compressors have 175 max PSI. As a result, they cycle less frequently than the one with 80 gallon tanks. Albeit the 80 gallon models are still more popular among DIY enthusiasts because of their greater mobility, the 120 gallon units are quickly catching up.
They are designed for heavy shop or industrial use. These air compressors deliver the performance and quality that you need in your automobile body shop. The two-stage models provide a longer pump life.
There is, of course, the in-between option of a 100-gallon air compressor, but these models are expensive and hard to find. You can pretty much consider the 100 gallon models obsolete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about air compressor cooling systems?
The 120 gallon air compressors reviewed above are very large units that have plenty of room for cooling systems. You wont have to worry about these air compressors overheating.
On smaller air compressors, however, space can be at a premium. In this case, its always a good idea to pay attention to an air compressors cooling metrics.
Can I service my 120-gallon air compressor on my own?
We advise against this. These are professional, industrial scale machines. You should always consult a certified technician, and if you want to avoid maintenance as much as possible, go with a ‘rotating screw’ design.
Are There Any Portable 120 Gallon Air Compressors?
Most 120 air compressors are not portable but are stationary air compressors.
Final Thoughts
We think this size air compressor will be more prevalent in the U.S. market soon. These models are more powerful, more reliable, and much sturdier than their 80 gallon counterparts.
We do hope that the above information will help you choose the best 120 gallon air compressor for your specific needs! See Our Top 5 Gas Compressor
