Powerfist 11G-2-30H, User Manual

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3
3. OPERATION
3.1 HOW THE COMPRESSOR WORKS
3.1.1 COMPONENTS
The basic components of the air compressor are the gasoline engine, pump, tank and unloader. The
gasoline
engine (item A) powers the pump. The engine drives a pulley and belt, which transfers power from the engine
to the pump pistons via a flywheel and a crankshaft. The flywheel fan helps cool the pump.
The
pump (item B) compresses the air and discharges it into the tank. As the piston in the pump cylinder
moves downward, air enters the cylinder through the filter and air intake valves at atmospheric pressure. As
the piston moves upward, it compresses the air and discharges it into the tank through an unloader/check
valve.
The
tank (item C) stores the compressed air. A check valve at the tank inlet prevents the compressed air in
the tank from flowing back into the pump.
When the air pressure in the tank reaches the factory-set limit, the
unloader (item D) relieves air pressure in
the pump and transfer tubes and switches the engine to idle. As compressed air is used and the pressure level
in the tank drops to a pre-set level, the unloader switches the engine back to drive and the compressor
resumes pumping air.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
Figure 1: Air Compressor Components
A Engine E Throttle Control Cable
B Pump F Pressure Gauge
C Tank G Relief Valve
D Unloader/
check valve