If you have an air compressor complete with an unloader valve and a tank, you have a compressor check valve. This valve is a very important component of the compressor. In fact, some compressors possess more than one of these devices. Some may feature five such valves on a single compressor. The number of check valves will depend on such factors directly relating to the compressor as
- Type
- Size
- Make/model
Purpose
They all serve the same function – to allow air to flow from one side to the other while preventing any airflow in the opposite direction. In other words, once air passes through the check valve, it cannot flow back the way it came. The construction of the valve prevents it from doing so.
What Type of Compressors Have Air or Gas Compressor Valves?
Almost any type of air compressor has check valves. Standard examples include:
- Reciprocating piston compressors
- Rotary screw compressors
- Scroll compressors
- Portable compressors
An air/gas compressor check valve may be inline (vertical or horizontal), disc, pivot or flanged. They usually consist of brass, plated steel or other corrosion resistant metals.
These compressors operate in the automotive, aviation and refrigeration industries as well as in natural gas processing and various refining operations. Like other types of check or one-way valves, they are there to prevent flow back or back up of the fluid or gas in the line (or lines) passing through or joining the valves.
The Air Compressor Check Valve
A check valve acts to prevent the flow of fluids, air or gases from back flowing. In an air compressor, this valve stops the back flow of air into the pump. If you have an air compressor, you will have an air compressor check valve to ensure the system functions smoothly without backflow. Be sure the valves are operating, or it will interfere with the operation of the compressor, with the possible result of serious consequences.
