An air compressor switch, also known as a pressure switch, turns off the compressor when the tank pressure reaches a certain point. It is rated in PSI and prevents dangerous explosions. The switch is similar to those used for regulating water pumps.
An air compressor switch is also known as a pressure switch and is used to turn off an air compressor when the storage tank air pressure reaches a certain point. Consisting of a system of springs and diaphragms, the air compressor switch is threaded into a cap, welded onto the air compressor tank and reacts to air pressure by pushing against the switch. Acting as a type of on/off switch, the air compressor switch is connected to the power line and cuts off the current flow between the switch and the compressor motor.
An air compressor is an air pump mounted on a large storage tank that is used to compress air and keep it stored under pressure until it is needed for a task, such as powering air tools, inflating tires, or using a paint gun. As the compressor pumps air into the storage tank, the pressure starts to build inside the tank. Left unchecked, the compressor could theoretically pump air into the tank until the stored pressure causes the tank to fail and cause a dangerous explosion. By installing an air compressor switch in the air tank, this problem is eliminated as the compressor pump and motor are shut down at a safe pressure setting.
The amount of pressure an air compressor switch is programmed to turn on and off is typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) of air pressure. The air compressor switch is rated using two numbers, such as an 85/130 switch. This means that the switch is designed to turn on at 85 PSI inside the air tank and turn off the power at 130 PSI inside the air tank. Some switches have a small amount of adjustment built into the design and can be adjusted to a slightly higher pressure setting before shutting off.
The type of switch used to regulate the air pressure inside the air compressor tank is very similar to the type of pressure switch used to regulate a water pump on a domestic well. When the water pressure reaches a predetermined point, the water pump is turned off. Some of the compressor switches include a special bypass which prevents the compressor pump from starting while the compressor cylinders are under pressure. This will prevent the compressor from being damaged as the pressurized air pushes against the compressor pump piston while the compressor motor simultaneously tries to move the pump piston.
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