If you've ever operated an air compressor, you know that they contain numerous components. One of the key compressor parts is the thermostatic valve; if it fails, the device can’t operate properly. Below is everything you need to know about the thermostatic valve and its role in the compressor.

All About Compressors & Thermostatic Valves

How Does an Air Compressor Work?

To compress the air, your unit uses a screw element that gathers filtered air at the intake end and forces it into a tank via torsion. As the air pressure increases, the temperature rises. Oil is then injected into the air chamber to cool it. The compressor must then pass the air-oil mixture through an oil separator in a separator tank. Here, the centrifugal force removes the oil. With the oil, much of the heat is also extracted, and the air is then clean enough to be released from the air compressor.

What Is the Thermostatic Valve?

The thermostatic valve, one of the most vital compressor parts, is a temperature regulator. It uses a thermostat to measure and respond to changes in air temperature inside the unit, keeping your air compressor running smoothly and effectively.

The extracted oil is often very hot. It can reach up to 120 degrees Celsius before the compressor shuts down. To reuse the oil for additional cooling, it must pass through an oil cooler before being reinjected into the compressor chamber.

The thermostatic valve senses the oil temperature and decides how much cooling is necessary. If it is scalding, the valve sends the oil through the cooler. If it is not yet hot, it bypasses the cooler and sends the oil directly to the oil filter, where it is recycled.

If you need compressor service or compressor parts, contact Parts Engineering Company in Maryland Heights, MO. They offer 24/7 service in the St. Louis area and will ship parts anywhere in the U.S. In addition to thermostatic valves, they also carry heat exchangers, air-oil separators, belts, and air filters. Visit their website to explore their inventory, or call (877) 797-7326 to arrange a consultation.