Air Compressor Pressure Switch

Air Compressor Pressure Switch

Air compressor pressure switches are sometimes used to detect leaks. When a leak occurs the switch detects the drop in pressure in the line and either issues a warning or shuts down the process until the problem is fixed. Air compressor pressure switches aim to maintain the reservoir pressure between two preset values. The pressure-operated switches sense changes in pressure and respond, according to the set points, by making the compressor either run or pause. Depending on the application, an air compressor pressure switch may be set to different pressure or actuation points to which it will automatically respond. Air compressors used for filling gas cylinders must produce very high pressure and would require high pressure switches, while air compressors for pneumatic tools, industrial processes and pneumatic machinery tend to require large amounts of air at moderate pressure.

Air compressor pressure switches can be found in most any setting where air compressors or gas compressors are present, including manufacturing facilities, CNC job shops, assembly lines, and any place where pneumatic power tools are used. Air compressor pressure switches can be specifically designed for alarm, shutdown, and control of many pneumatic processes and equipment. The pressure switches themselves can vary significantly in sensing technology, appearance, accuracy and range of switch points, and can be made of acetal, aluminum, brass, bronze, cast iron, steel, stainless steel, or zinc. To sense pressure, some switches use an elastomeric diaphragm in a pressure cavity that expands or contracts in response to changes in the pressure level and actuates either a mechanical switch or a valve. Others work in conjunction with a pressure transducer and a display meter. Electronic pressure switches usually make use of either a piezoresistive or piezoelectric pressure sensor that provides an electrical output based on the level of physical strain exerted on it by the liquid or gas; these often include a digital display. The most important consideration when choosing an adjustable pressure switch for an air compressor is the regulating or adjustment range, which limits the range of pressures at which the switch can function. In addition, since some air compressors can create heavy vibrations, it is important to consider a switch's ability to operate in the particular environment in which it will be used. Air compressor pressure switches play an integral part in making air compressors both functional and safe.