A pressure switch is a standard component of an air compressor, and its main function is to tell the compressor when to start and when to stop. Selecting the right pressure switch is simple when you know what to look out for.
Cut-in & cut-out pressure
The pressure at which a pressure switch opens is the cut-out pressure and the pressure at which a pressure switch closes is the cut-in pressure.
The cut-in pressure should always be the lowest allowable pressure in your air system. If, for example, your equipment needs 100 psi to operate, set the cut-out pressure above 100 psi.
Since you will always have some pressure drop in your compressed air system, and since it takes some time for the compressor to 'kick in', it's better to set the cut-in pressure 10 psi higher. In our example, we would set the pressure switch at 110 psi to allow for the pressure drop in our system.
The difference between the cut-in and the cut-out pressure is the pressure differential.
Models LF10-L
Pressure switches for air compressors come in different forms and shapes. Selecting the right model depends on what your needs are. Fixed pressure switches are usually a little cheaper, while fully adjustable pressure switches give you more freedom.
Some pressure switches have a fixed cut-in and cut-out pressure set-point. Other pressure switches have a fixed pressure differential, while the cut-in pressure can be adjusted. On other types of pressure switches, you can adjust both the cut-in and the cut-out pressure.
Finding a good replacement pressure switch
An exact replacement from the original manufacturer is often very expensive. It is usually much cheaper to find your own replacement switch.
Your new pressure switch doesn’t need to be exactly the same as the one that you’re replacing. However, you need to buy a pressure switch that has the same maximum pressure and electrical rating.
Here is a list of things to check before you select a pressure switch supplier
MAXIMUM PRESSURE
Is the maximum pressure rating equal or higher than the current one?
Your compressor is rated for a certain maximum pressure. Your new pressure switch must have either the same pressure rating or higher.
Also, be sure to never set the pressure setting higher than the maximum rated pressure of your compressor!
ELECTRICAL LOAD
Can it handle the electrical load?
On smaller compressors (0 - 3 hp) the pressure switch will switch the compressor motor directly.
Your new pressure switch needs to be able to handle the motor currents of your compressor.
PHYSICAL CONNECTIONS
What are the physical compressed air connections?
What is the physical compressed air connections on your current pressure switch? You can always make an adapter, but it's easiest to buy a new pressure switch that fits directly on your compressor.
Common connection sizes are 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" NPT female.
ON/OFF SWITCH
Does it have an on/off switch?
Some compressors have an on/off switch, some don't.
Bigger compressors usually don't have an on/off button on the pressure switch. Instead, they have a separate control panel where the control buttons (on/off, load/unload) are located.
Smaller compressors are switched on and off directly by the pressure switch. In this case, your pressure switch will most likely have an on/off button
UNLOADER VALVE
Does the old pressure switch have an integrated unloader valve?
The unloader valve of reciprocating compressors is often located on the side or on the bottom of the pressure switch.
The new pressure switch that you buy must have the same connections (so you can re-use the old unloader valve), or then it should come with a new unloader valve.
If you buy a new pressure switch together with an unloader valve, make sure that the physical compressed air connection is the same.
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