- Question Title: Air compressor check valve
- Asked by: Guest
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- Answers: 1
I just have a technical question..
We have two compressors hooked up in a way that one is always running and the other one kicks in when the demand of air is higher or when the main compressor (master) shuts down.
What will happen if the main compressor does not have a check valve at the air outlet and we have the other compressor running (slave).
Answers & Replies
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Good morning,
Normally this should not be a problem. I think you're talking about two rotary screw compressors? You're afraid air will flow back the wrong way?
Rotary screw compressors normally already have a built-in check valve.
It could either be a separate check valve, or it is integrated in the minimum pressure valve (that valves makes sure there is always a minimum pressure in the compressor for lubrication of the screws).
Think of it another way: when there is little air demand, the compressor would pressurize the air tank and than stop. There must be a check valve inside the compressor, otherwise the air from the tank would flow back into the compressor.
Short answer: this should not be a problem.
I have seen many, many installations with master-slave configuration, without an extra check valve after the compressor. Actually, I can't remember every seeing a check valve in such a case.
Hope this helps! If you have any more questions, just ask.