FS-Curtis CA Series

The CA series is a line of reciprocating simplex air compressors covering roughly 7.5 HP to 10 HP on 80 and 120 gallon receivers, available in both horizontal and vertical tank orientations. It is aimed at shops that need reliable intermittent-duty shop air without moving up to a rotary screw.

Ultra Pack models arrive with air treatment integrated onto the same package rather than specified and piped as separate components. That reduces installation labor and floor space compared with buying the compressor, dryer, and filtration separately and plumbing them together on site.

Vertical tanks take roughly half the floor area and suit tight equipment rooms with adequate ceiling height. Horizontal tanks sit lower, are easier to reach for pump and belt service, and work where headroom is limited. Air performance is the same — this is a space and serviceability decision.

The 7.5 to 10 HP range typically supports a one to three bay shop running intermittent air tools. Total the CFM of the tools that may run at the same time and add about 25 percent headroom, then confirm the specific model delivers that at your working pressure. Alamo can run the calculation against your tool list.

Voltage and phase vary by model within the series. Confirm the specific model's electrical requirement — voltage, phase, and full-load amperage — against your building service before ordering, and have an electrician verify the branch circuit will carry the starting load.

Both are reciprocating shop compressors. They differ in pump design, available horsepower and tank combinations, and package options. Selection generally comes down to the horsepower and tank size you need and whether you want an integrated air treatment package. Alamo can walk through the comparison for your application.

Change pump oil and the inlet air filter at the manufacturer's interval, drain the receiver daily or fit an automatic drain, check belt condition and tension, and test the safety relief valve annually. Daily condensate draining matters most — standing water in the tank causes internal corrosion.

Tank-mounted units in this size ship LTL freight, typically curbside on a liftgate truck. Arrange equipment and personnel to move the unit into position, and inspect for freight damage before signing the delivery receipt.