Setting the cut-in pressure is only a matter of turning the adjuster knob or screw in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, depending on the model.
But some switches have an adjustable differential, while others have a fixed differential typically in the range of 0.8 to 1 bar. You can set the cut-in pressure on any switch provided it’s within the switch’s capacity. The range between the cut-in and cut-out pressure is known as the differential. Cut-in pressure refers to the minimum pressure that triggers an ON state, while cut-out pressure is the highest pressure value that triggers the OFF state. What are Cut-In and Cut-Out Pressure Settings?Ĭompressor switches allow the output pressure to vary within a limited range. This valve serves a similar purpose to the unloader valve discussed above. When the air compressor switch trips, the valve relieves any pressure that might be trapped between the check valve and the pump. The unloader may be located either on the side or bottom of the switch. The adjustment spring changes the low and high-pressure limits for triggering the switch ON and OFF, respectively. The movement of the diaphragm forces the contacts to either separate or touch. The diaphragm is made of a flexible rubber membrane that pushes up or down depending on the pressure within the compressor.
#Air compressor on off switch driver#
The driver shuts down when the contacts separate. When the contacts touch, the circuit connected to the terminals is closed, and the driver is powered ON. Every switch comprises of the following components:Ĭontacts are metallic strips that terminate at bolted-connector terminals, where the driver’s power lines or switching controls are connected. However, the basic working of an air compressor switch is quite intuitive and easy to understand. The versatility, complexity, and functionality of the design largely depend on the switch’s application and compatible compressor. Pressure switches come in various models and types. The air compressor unloader valve opens to release the built-up pressure in the pump once the driver stops this prepares the pressure chamber for a new compression phase. This pressure loads the driver while at rest, making it difficult and sometimes impossible to restart. The pistons may trap pockets of compressed air within the cylinders. Once the driver cuts out, the compression pump also stops, leaving the pistons frozen in their positions within the cylinders. It’s important to understand what makes an air compressor unloader valve necessary in reciprocating compressors due to the ON and OFF switching of the driver. What is the Unloader Valve?Ī reciprocating or positive displacement compressor pump uses piston movements to compress air. The reason for having an adaptive switching mechanism is to ensure that the compressor operates within safe limits, and the output pressure remains relevant and useful to the specific application.
The ON/OFF action of the switch starts and stops the driver, and subsequently, the pressure pump. The switch is triggered ON when the output pressure falls to a certain threshold and OFF when the pressure reaches a pre-defined value. It is a mechanical pressure-actuated electrical switch. This is a critical component designed to automatically switch the driver ON and OFF during operation to maintain steady air pressure at the output.
What is an Air Compressor Pressure Switch? One of the essential controls is an air compressor pressure switch.
The controls monitor various parameters on the compressor and provide an interface for adjusting or calibrating operational variables. The main components of an air compressor include a driver (usually an AC motor) that delivers the compression power, pressure pump, buffer or storage tank, inlet and outlet plumbing, and controls. But even so, they are all fundamentally the same and built on universal principles.Īn air compressor’s purpose is to supply pressurised gas or air either for storage or immediate use. They come in a wide range of sizes, performance specs, and use-case designs. Compressors are used in HVAC systems, paint shops, pneumatic nail guns, and a host of industrial applications. Air compressorsare some of the most versatile equipment we have today.