Essential Guide: Determine the Perfect Air Compressor Governor Cut Out Threshold

An air compressor is a vital piece of equipment in many industries and applications. It provides compressed air for various tasks, from powering pneumatic tools to inflating tires. To ensure the safe and efficient operation of an air compressor, it is crucial to understand the governor cut out settings.

Understanding the Air Compressor Governor

An air compressor governor is a device that regulates the pressure of the compressed air produced by the compressor. It does this by opening and closing a valve that controls the flow of air from the compressor to the receiver tank. When the pressure in the receiver tank reaches a predetermined level, the governor shuts off the compressor.

Determining the Optimal Cut Out Settings

The optimal cut out settings for an air compressor governor depend on several factors, including:

• Compressor capacity: The size and capacity of the compressor will determine the maximum pressure it can produce.
• Receiver tank size: The volume of the receiver tank will determine how much compressed air can be stored.
• Application requirements: The specific application for which the compressor is being used will determine the required pressure range.

Recommended Cut Out Settings

Generally, the cut out pressure should be set slightly above the maximum pressure required by the application. This will ensure that the compressor has sufficient pressure reserve to meet demand. A good rule of thumb is to set the cut out pressure 10-15 psi above the maximum operating pressure.

For example, if the maximum operating pressure for a particular application is 100 psi, the cut out pressure could be set to 110-115 psi.

Consequences of Incorrect Settings

Incorrect cut out settings can have several negative consequences, including:

• Overheating: If the cut out pressure is set too high, the compressor may run continuously, leading to overheating and potential damage.
• Premature wear: Running the compressor at excessively high pressures can put undue stress on the components, leading to premature wear and failure.
• Reduced efficiency: Setting the cut out pressure too low can result in the compressor cycling too frequently, which wastes energy and reduces efficiency.

How to Adjust Governor Cut Out Settings

Adjusting the governor cut out settings is typically a simple process. Most governors have an adjustable screw or knob that can be turned to increase or decrease the cut out pressure. It is important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adjustment procedures.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the cut out pressure, there are other governor settings that may need to be adjusted, such as the:

• Load/Unload differential: This setting determines the pressure difference between when the compressor starts and stops.
• Minimum pressure: This setting ensures that the compressor does not run at excessively low pressures.

The Bottom Line: Optimizing Air Compressor Performance

Understanding and setting the correct air compressor governor cut out settings is essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the compressor. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can optimize your compressor’s performance and extend its lifespan.

What You Need to Know

Q: What is the purpose of an air compressor governor?
A: An air compressor governor regulates the pressure of the compressed air produced by the compressor, ensuring that it does not exceed a predetermined level.

Q: What factors influence the optimal cut out settings?
A: Compressor capacity, receiver tank size, and application requirements.

Q: What are the consequences of incorrect cut out settings?
A: Overheating, premature wear, and reduced efficiency.

Q: How do I adjust the governor cut out settings?
A: Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adjustment procedures.

Q: What other governor settings may need to be adjusted?
A: Load/unload differential and minimum pressure.