WHAT IS A PRESSURE SWITCH?       A pressure switch is a device that senses changes in fluid pressure and responds in a specified way. An actuated pressure switch makes or disrupts electrical contact in order to either trigger an alarm or switch something on or off. Switches are programmed to activate at certain pressure points, and may be designed to make contact either on pressure rise or on pressure fall. Pressure switches consist of a switch mechanism that is connected to a bellow or diaphragm that reacts to system pressure. They are selected by operating range and differential. Operating range is the pressure limits in which the switch will work. Differential is the difference between the cut-in and cut-out pressures. Pressure switch settings, common to many air compressors, are set for a range of 40 to 250 PSI and an adjustable differential of 35 to 60 PSI. This means that the lowest pressure that the switch can be set to close at is 40 PSI, and the highest pressure it can be set to open at is 250 PSI. The differential that is actually available to use varies with the pressure range you’re actually working in. Â

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What is the difference between automotive oil and compressor oil? Automotive oils contain detergents and dispersants to deal with blow-by, as well as EP additives. These are ash containing and contribute to valve deposits in reciprocating  air compressors. In screw compressors these additive cause emulsification with water. Reciprocating  compressors really benefit from the clean operation of Teresstic ISO compressor oils. http://hkaircompressors.blogspot.com

 A pressure switch is a device that senses changes in fluid pressure and responds in a specified way. An actuated pressure switch makes or disrupts electrical contact in order to either trigger an alarm or switch something on or off. Switches are programmed to activate at certain pressure points, and may be designed to make contact either on pressure rise or on pressure fall. http://hkaircompressors.blogspot.com Pressure switches (also called a vacuum switch) consist of a switch mechanism that is connected to a bellow or diaphragm that reacts to system pressure. They are selected by operating range and differential. Operating range is the pressure limits in which the switch will work. Differential is the difference between the cut-in and cut-out pressures. Pressure switch settings, common to many air compressors, are set for a range of 40 to 250 PSI and an adjustable differential of 35 to 60 PSI. This means that the lowest pressure that the switch can be set to close at is 40 PSI, and the highest pressure it can be set to open at is 250 PSI. The differential that is actually available to use varies with the pressure range you’re actually working in.

RECIPROCATING AIR COMPRESSORS Reciprocating air compressors are used by businesses in a wide range of industries to deliver compressed air at various pressures for various applications. Having a powerful and reliable reciprocating air compressor at your business is essential in helping to ensure no or very little down time. So, what exactly is a Reciprocating air compressor? A reciprocating air compressor is a piston compressor. It is a positive-displacement compressor that uses a crankshaft and pistons to deliver compressed air at various pressures. In a reciprocating air compressor, pistons are responsible for this activity and are driven by a crankshaft, which is in turn powered by electric motors or a gas engine. Reciprocating air compressors are used in a variety of industries where compressed air is needed. Some of these industries include: BODY AND PAINT SHOPS; CAR DEALERSHIPS; AUTOMOTIVE FRANCHISES; DRY CLEANERS; CAR WASHES; MANUFACTURING PLANTS; OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY; FOOD PACKAGING COMPANIES; HVAC; PETROCHEMICAL COMPANIES; PLASTIC PRODUCTION; FRAMING COMPANIES; MOULDING FACILITIES; CEMENT FACILITIES, ETC. ETC. ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. And, to make it more simple to understand: A reciprocating air compressor is a machine that converts one form of energy into another by inducing air at atmospheric pressure, reducing the available volume, in turn compressing the air to a higher pressure in order to release stored energy that can then be used for a variety of applications including; powering air tools, pneumatics, manufacturing processes, plastic production, painting, etc. It is safe and more cost efficient than other forms of energy. ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... A. My Reciprocating Air Compressor making a screaming sound. What should I do? Check the belt, as it might be too loose, tighten belt or replace with new one. B. My Reciprocating Air Compressor is not building up pressure and air is blowing out of the inlet filter. What should I do? Below are some of the common issues relating to this: 1. Check whether the valves or plates are broken, worn or covered with dirt. 2. Check if the compressor is operating at full capacity. 3.Check inlet/outlet valves inside the compressor???s head. 4.. Check whether there is a leak present.. 5. Check the head gasket. 6. Check inlet air filter. C. My Reciprocating Air Compressor shows high oil consumption and low oil level. What should I do? If the above were to happen follow these procedures: 1. First check where the oil is being used at. 2. Check whether there is an oil leak 3. Common places where a leak were to occur are the drain valve or plug and the shaft seal. D. My Reciprocating Air Compressor is making noises. Why? If the air compressor made noises, first pinpoint the location of the source of the noise, then follow the procedure below: 1. Check whether the bolts and parts of the compressor is fixed tightly. 2. Check whether the rubber damping feel is still in good condition. 3. If the sound were to come from the compressor, please check the oil level. 4. If the sounds were to vary, that is it happens at different intervals, check the inlet/outlet valves and piston rings. 5. If it is a knocking type noise that sounds, you might have a problem with your main or connecting rod bearings. BELOW ARE SOME COMMON ISSUES WITH AIR COMPRESSORS. 1. Air Compressor not keeping up / insufficient pressure? Check compressed air reticulation system, compressor or plant machinery for any air leaks. If there are no system air leaks and the air compressor has been sized correctly; check the following: Inlet valve is fully opening Intake filter is clean System valves fully open Review additional demands such as new processes, tools or equipment 2. Air Compressor runs but will not load? If the following problem were to occur, check the following: *Electrical Power to load solenoid valve *Solenoid Valve coil and solenoid valve operation problem *Inlet or loading valve not functioning properly *Broken control line *No load signal from control panel 3. Air Compressor shuts down on high-temperature? If your compressor overheats and trips, the following MAY OR MAY NOT be the cause of the problem: *Low Oil Level *Thermostatic valve not functioning correctly *Incorrect oil used *Clogged or dirty oil cooler *Insufficient cooling air flow *Cooling fan failed 4. Air Compressor will not start? Check power supply to compressor. Yep, take a look to make sure it is plugged into the outlet! If power is available the compressor may have tripped on a safety device. Check control panel display for error messages or fault codes. If the fault can be rectified and readily cleared restart the compressor. 5. Air Receiver Safety valve lifts / pressure too high Check the following???.. ??? Intake throttle not functioning correctly. ??? Overpressure shutdown setting incorrect. ??? Pressure switch or transducer incorrectly set or not functioning correctly. ??? Air / oil separator differential pressure too high. ??? Incorrectly set pressure safety valve