Looking for a 400 V three-phase screw compressor (often still called 380 V)? All of our screw compressors are. A screw compressor is built to run for long periods, several hours a day, and at these power ratings three-phase supply is the standard. Here are the available models, what you need to know about the connection, and how to choose the right power.
380 V, 400 V, three-phase: what are we talking about?
You will see "380 V", "380V", "400 V" or "400 V three-phase": it is the same supply. In Europe the official value is now 400 V, but the old habit of saying 380 V has stuck. A compressor sold as 380 V three-phase connects to a normal 400 V three-phase supply at 50 Hz.
Three-phase power arrives on three phases (plus neutral and earth). It feeds powerful motors with less current on each wire than single-phase: the motor runs cooler and the installation is under less strain. That is why professional screw compressors are three-phase.
AIRSTAHL screw compressors on 380/400 V three-phase
Each data sheet states the model's power supply. For all the screw compressors below it is 380 V three-phase, 50 Hz (400 V three-phase, 50 Hz on the K 75 data sheet: the same supply).
| Model | Power | Pressure | Flow rate | Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S 55 | 5.5 kW | 8 bar | 0.6 m³/min | Standalone screw compressor |
| S 75 | 7.5 kW | 8, 10 or 13 bar | 1.1 m³/min at 8 bar | Standalone screw compressor |
| S 110 | 11 kW | 8, 10 or 13 bar | 1.7 m³/min at 8 bar | Standalone screw compressor |
| S 150 | 15 kW | 8, 10 or 13 bar | 2.2 m³/min at 8 bar | Standalone screw compressor |
| S 220 PM | 22 kW | 10 bar | 3.2 m³/min at 10 bar | Standalone screw compressor |
| K 75 | 7.5 kW | 8, 10 or 13 bar | 1.1 m³/min at 8 bar | 4-in-1: 420 L tank, dryer and filtration |
| K 110 | 11 kW | 8, 10 or 13 bar | 1.7 m³/min at 8 bar | 4-in-1: 340 L tank, dryer and filtration |
| K 150 | 15 kW | 8, 10 or 13 bar | 2.2 m³/min at 8 bar | 4-in-1: 340 L tank, dryer and filtration |
| L 110, L 150, L 220 | 11, 15 and 22 kW | 8 to 16 bar | 0.8 to 1.8 m³/min | All-in-one 16 bar for laser cutting |
| M 75, M 220 | 7.5 and 22 kW | 10 and 12.5 bar | 1.0 and 2.0 m³/min | Mobile screw compressor on tank and wheels |
Prices are shown on each product page. Above 22 kW, the S series goes up to 132 kW: these machines are offered on quotation, with their electrical specifications. To compare the models in detail (noise, footprint, weight), see our screw compressor comparison.
Variable-frequency start: no surge on your installation
On the S, K and L series, the motor starts through a variable-frequency drive. There is no harsh current surge at each start, as there is with a motor switched straight onto the mains. Your installation is under less strain, and the other machines in the workshop do not suffer a sudden voltage drop each time the compressor starts.
The drive also works day to day: these compressors are variable speed. The motor runs faster or slower to match the workshop's air demand, instead of switching between full load and idling. Our article on variable speed vs fixed speed explains what this changes on the energy bill.
Before ordering: check your installation
- The type of supply: a 4-pole main circuit breaker on the panel, or industrial sockets with 4 or 5 pins, indicate a three-phase supply. The connection type is also shown on your electricity contract. Our article 230V or 400V covers these clues in detail.
- The available power: the compressor adds to the other machines in the workshop. Your contract and your supply must keep up, especially for 15 or 22 kW.
- A dedicated line from the panel, with a cable cross-section suited to the power and the length, and protection suited to the motor.
- The room: ventilation, temperature, access for maintenance. It is all in our article on where to install your compressor.
The electrical connection of a screw compressor must be carried out or checked by a qualified electrician, following the manual and the applicable rules.
What if my workshop has no three-phase supply?
Our screw compressors cannot be plugged into a 230 V single-phase socket. Two options:
- Have three-phase installed: the lasting solution if compressed air plays an important part in your business. The network operator and an electrician will give you the cost and lead time.
- Choose a piston compressor for more occasional use, checking its voltage on the data sheet. To find out whether you really need a screw compressor, read piston or screw compressor: what is the difference?
Which power to choose on 400 V?
Power is chosen from the air flow you need, not from the voltage. Add up the consumption of the tools used at the same time and add a margin for leaks and future needs. The configurator does this calculation from your tools, and the guide what size compressor explains the method.
Frequently asked questions
Does a 380 V screw compressor work on 400 V?
Yes. 380 V is the old name of the three-phase network, now at 400 V. Our screw compressors marked "380 V three-phase / 50 Hz" connect to a standard 400 V three-phase supply.
Is there a 230 V screw compressor?
Not in our range: all our screw compressors, from 5.5 to 22 kW, run on 380/400 V three-phase. Without three-phase in the workshop, you either have it installed or choose another type of compressor.
Do I need an electrician to connect a 400 V screw compressor?
Yes. The connection must be carried out or checked by a qualified electrician: they check the available power, the line, the protection and the connection specified in the manual. If in doubt about your installation, attach a photo of your electrical panel to your quote request: we will check with you that the model is suitable.
For your trade: Compressor for industry and production, Compressor for garages, Compressor for joinery workshops.