What is an unloader in a compressor?
Table of Contents
What is an unloader in a compressor?
A compressor unloader valve is a small part, typically measuring approximately 4-5 inches in length and width. It performs the critical function of releasing trapped air inside the tank, enabling the motor to restart. An unloader valve malfunction is one of the more common air compressor issues.
What does an unloader do on a refrigeration compressor?
Connected with appropriate tubing and fittings to the discharge line or cylinder head assembly of the compressor, unloader valves are typically installed in different compressor models to decrease the starting load. Additionally, an unloader valve provides a reliable means of capacity control.
How does an unloader work on an air compressor?
While the air compressor is running, the pilot remains closed until the pressure reaches the unload setting. When that happens, the pilot opens and pressurizes the unloader valve, causing the unloader valve to open and excess air from the compressor to vent to atmosphere.
How does an unloader work?
The unloader diverts the flow of water from the outlet side of the pump back to the inlet side, causing water to flow in a loop back to the pump under virtually no pressure rather than to the nozzle under operating pressure. Flow may be directed back to the pump inlet or to a float tank or other type of reservoir.
Why does a compressor unload?
The main purpose of unloading a compressor is to keep it from shutting off when the demand is less than it’s full capacity. if left at full capacity, it would shut off and turn back on frequently.
How does a unloader valve work?
Essentially, an unloader valve is a safety switch. It sends pressurized water into a by-pass by cycling it from the outlet side of the pump to an inlet or water tank. This process depressurizes the water and prevents pressure from building up while the pressure washer machine is idling.
Why do compressors unload?
Does an air compressor need an unloader?
Yes, an air compressor needs an unloader valve. Extracting the air by the unloader valve is essential for the compressor motor to start again without any effort.
Why do unloader valves fail?
Every time a gun in the system closes, the unloader valve needs to bypass the excess of water, so every gun in the system increases the amount of unloader cycles and the possibility of failure. Dean: Over adjusting of the unloader, thereby creating a high spike pressure will damage the valve and seat.
What happens if unloader valve is bad?
A failed unloader valve can cause high pressure at the nozzle. The unloader valve recirculates water to the pump inlet when the pump is running but the spray wand isn’t in use.
