The air compressor Governor determines the pressure at when the air compressor turns on and off.
However, the Governor keeps the air pressure in the reservoir within a narrow range. Operating a vehicle with air pressure outside its safe operating range is dangerous.
So air compressor governor is an integral part of an air compressor. That’s why it’s important to know the work procedure and how to test it.
Now, if you’re interested, walk with us to grab the main zest of a compressor governor. So without further ado, let’s get started.
What Is An Air Compressor Governor?
The Governor is often attached to the compressor and works in tandem with the compressor to keep the pressure of the reservoir air within a certain range.
Most air compressors use a belt to transfer power from the engine to the rotary compressor, although some use a direct-drive gearbox.
Some compressors are self-lubricating; some are air-cooled, and the majority rely on the truck’s lubrication and cooling systems. Compressors that use their own lubricant must regularly have their oil tested and replaced.
For the air brake system, a governor is utilized to control the amount of compressed air produced by the compressor and hence the amount of strain placed on the engine. As soon as the system pressure reaches a certain threshold, the Governor shuts off the compressor.
How Does An Air Compressor Governor Work?
The compressed air is connected directly to the Governor for simple operation. The air compressor governor’s outermost part houses the inlet, unloader, and exhaust ports. The Governor has a piston at its base. The exhaust stem, valve spring, and valve are commonly stored in the piston.
The intake port is used to connect the regulator to the oxygen generator it manages. As the pressure in the storage tank rises, the inlet/exhaust valve of the piston pushes on the pressurizer spring.
In response to air pressure exceeding a certain threshold, the vent stem opens the pump impeller valve. There is now a channel between the piston and the air intake port; however, air will be prevented from escaping through the discharge port.
In this case, the air is escaping from the input port through the valve-connected port, which triggers the air dryer’s purge cycle.
The piston will remain in its new location until the internal tank pressure falls below the trimmed level. The air compressor has a control valve spring that resets the piston if the pressure dips below the cut-in limit.
Furthermore, the exhaust stem gate will be opened, and the throttle valve will be closed again. The air pressure in the relief valve port will drop as the air is expelled via the exhaust stem and into the discharge port.
Limiting the flow of air out of the acting hydraulic port will prevent the air compressor from creating pressure. The exhaust port will be rendered ineffective if you do this.
How Do I Adjust the Governor on My Air Compressor?
A hand-operated governor for the air compressor is also provided. It’s important to remember that just the lower switching threshold will be adjusted, as a safety valve will release air when the upper switching threshold is adjusted to the increased side.
When the spring is compressed, it triggers a switch, which opens the connections and shuts off the unit’s engine. As the receiver’s compression level drops, the membrane in the pressure regulator will curve downward.
When the switch is flipped, the contacts are closed by the spring, and the engine begins to turn over. Installation of a pressure release valve is required.
The duct between the receiver and compressor is where the valve is positioned. With the compressor drive cut, the compressed air pressure is released to the atmosphere at a rate of 2 bars, relieving strain on the compressor’s working parts.
It is possible for the engine to fail under the strain of maximum torque. The actuator is not overworked as the valve closes at engine startup when the vehicle is not under load.
When the electric motor is started or accelerated further, a surge has produced that forces the valve to its closed position.
Due to this, the drive is protected from being overworked, and turning the device on from its off state is far less complicated. The ability to activate and deactivate the autonomous features of the system is controlled by a mechanical switch that is an intrinsic element of the whole.
As a result, the compressor regulator controls the speed at which the electric motor drive operates, avoiding overheating and the subsequent breakdown of mechanical components.
How Does An Air Governor Valve Work?
A mechanical valve called a governor valve is used in gearboxes that are not electronically controlled by hydraulics. The pressure on the governor changes as the vehicle accelerates or decelerates.
Approximately 20 psi of pressure in the Governor’s circuit corresponds to a speed of 20 mph. The output shaft powers the governor valve.
Turning the screw counter-clockwise will increase the pressure settings. The pressure can be reduced by turning the screw in a clockwise direction. Keep in mind that too much tinkering can cause problems. By turning the knob a quarter of a turn, you can increase or decrease the pressure setting by about 4 psi.
Symptoms Of Bad Air Governor
Let’s find out some of the major symptoms of a bad air compressor. So check out here.
- A/C Holes
Leaks in air compressors are a common problem, thus, preventative procedures are usually quite thorough. It is recommended to perform routine checks for air leaks. However, they do happen and can lead to the breakdown of an air compressor.
Most air leaks can be repaired, fortunately. In most cases, you can simply tighten the source of the leak if it’s a connector. If a leak is caused by a worn valve, it can be repaired or replaced. Also, susceptible to leaks are the oil fill tubes and hoses.
- Lack of maintenance
Major problems inside an air compressor governor system might be brought on by things like dirty air filters and inadequate lubrication. The pure air and lack of buildup or damage to the internal parts are thanks to these features. Without regular upkeep, the air quality may deteriorate, or the system’s efficiency may drop because of built-up friction.
Neglecting routine maintenance during the lifespan of a system accelerates its deterioration and increases the likelihood that serious problems may arise. Performing regular maintenance on your air compressor is essential if you want it to last as long and perform as well as possible.
- Expired components
The wear and tear on components over time. It’s possible they won’t function as well or at all. For instance, seals might deteriorate and allow pressurized air to escape. There are many potential failure points in an air compressor governor system; this is why regular servicing is essential.
Fortunately, it is usually possible to simply replace broken parts. It’s not always necessary to start from scratch with a new system. Numerous components, including valves, seals, gaskets, and diaphragms, are upgradeable.
FAQs – Air compressor Governor
What psi should my governor kick in at?
There is no difference in how a governor operates between low and high-pressure settings; for example, in a car with air brakes, the Governor will function at pressures of 80 and 135 pounds per square inch, respectively.
At what psi should the air compressor governor cut in and out?
Cut-out pressures on air compressors are normally in the range of 110 psi to 130 psi, whereas cut-in pressures are around 20 psi lower.
In no more than 45 seconds, the air pressure can be raised from 85 to 100 psi. Watch the air pressure gauge as you drive to ensure correct system operation.
How do you fine-tune a compressor’s Governor?
Turning the screw counter-clockwise will increase the pressure settings. By turning the screw in a clockwise direction, the pressure can be reduced.
Keep in mind that too much tinkering can cause problems. About 4 psi can be added or subtracted with every quarter turn of the adjustment screw.
When do governors stop cutting?
The system’s air pressure signals the Governor to turn off the compressor (cut-out) at a certain set point. When the air pressure drops below a predetermined threshold, the Governor kicks in and restarts the compressor (cut-in).
Final verdict
No wonder air governor plays an important role in an air compressor. So till now, you got the answer of what the air compressor governor does? Basically, it controls the reservoir.
However, keep in mind that the air compressor governor needs regular maintenance for a longer lifespan.
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