Ingersoll Rand pressure switch help!

[jspies22]

Hi all,

Looking for help with the pressure switch on my Ingersoll Rand SS5 compressor. The switch has been sticking and the compressor continuously runs until max pressure then pops the relief valve if allowed to. After inspecting the 4 contact points I have found them fused together and need to pry them apart with a screw driver (unplugged). I tried filing the points down and put it back together but the problem persists.

While doing this I broke part of the pivoting switch. So I guess I have 2 basic questions. Why do/did the points fuse and what is the best replacement pressure switch for the compressor I have. Also, budget in mind, cheapest best option. I am running 220v 5hp motor with cut in around 80 lbs and cut out about 135 lbs. Used in home garage for multipule different types of projects but nothing professional full time.

I have attempted to attach a few photos cause, let's face it, posts are worthless without pics and looking up a photo to see what I'm talking about takes way too long.

Thanks in advance for all the wisdom.

 

[jspies22]

Photo 2

 

[jspies22]

Photo 3

My sweet iPhone 6 is only allowing one photo at a time, sorry bout that.

 

[Fixnair]

It appears as if you are switching motor current. That switch is not made to handle that kind of current. You need to get a contactor to switch your motor and use your pressure switch to control the contactor.

 

[sgs236]

A contactor would be a better way to turn the compressor on and off, but the manual shows it being wired though the pressure switch. I'm guessing the current is 15 -18 amps or so for the 5 HP model. Pressure switch contacts should be able to handle that for a homeowner operation. I would replace the pressure switch and make sure that you have the right size circuit breaker for the motor installed. Manual for this compressor lists several things to check for excessive current draw. I would start there.

 

[gungatim]

you can get a standard pressure switch for air compressors right at the local farm store/TSC if you have one. $26.99. just bought one last week to fix a similar compressor. comes with the fittings for the line and everything. there are 2 types they had on the shelf, the 130psi for single stage and a 175 psi for the 2-stage, same price for either...

 

[stonesfan68]

Look under the cover of the pressure switch and it should show the IR part number, or CCN. Order it from the local distributor.

 

[Mike.ASC]

I have the same problem with my IR compressor switch. Mine went bad just out of warranty and a replacement switch was well over $100.00. I also have friends with the same switches on the same compressors that also failed. My guess is that IR was sourcing cheap switches for these compressors. I tried to get IR to replace it but no luck.

 

[jspies22]

Thanks for the advice! I will replace the switch and check the breaker. I think the manual recommends a 30 amp breaker.