What is a Pneumatic Bolted Pressure Switch?

There are several different types and uses for a bolted pressure switch. One of the specific types of bolted pressure switches is the pneumatic bolted pressure switch. Additionally, any time of bolted pressure switch requires ongoing care and maintenance in order to keep it functioning properly.

Pneumatic Bolted Pressure Switch

A pneumatic bolted pressure switch is a form of a switch that allows for electrical contact when a certain level of pressure has been reached on its input. This allows for on/off switching from a pneumatic source, such as compressed air or compressed inert gases. Depending on need, the switch can be designed to make contact either on a pressure rise or a pressure fall. A bolted pressure switch is easy to identify due to its long operating handle that compresses the operating mechanism spring.

Uses for a Pneumatic Bolted Pressure Switch

There are a variety of different uses for a pneumatic bolted pressure switch. For example, the in-cell charge control in a Nickel-metal hydride battery would utilize a pneumatic bolted pressure switch. An in-cell charge control (I-C3) is a system for quick charging of a Nickel-metal hydride battery. Batteries that use this technology are most often sold as “fiveteen minute re-charables.”

A pneumatic bolted pressure switch can also be found for switching off a gas compressor, when there is no feed in the suction stage. Still another use for a pneumatic bolted pressure switch is to switch off an electrically-driven gas compressor when a set pressure is achieved in the reservoir. A gas compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. A compressor is similar to a pump in this function. Both pumps and compressors increase the pressure on a fluid and both can transport fluid through a pipe. When gases are compressed, the compressor also reduces the volume of the gas. In general, liquids do not compress much, if at all.

Bolted Pressure Switch Care and Maintenance

In order to keep a bolted pressure switch functioning and in good condition, it is important that it is maintained properly on a regular basis. Without proper maintenance, the operating mechanism of a bolted pressure switch may become hard to operate or completely fail altogether. Therefore, periodic maintenance should include cleaning and lubrication of the bolted pressure switch. If the bolted pressure switch is not maintained properly and fails, it could prove detrimental if it is the main disconnect for an entire commercial facility.

Visual maintenance of a facility’s bolted pressure switch should take place at least once a year. Complete lubrication and cleaning of the bolted pressure switch should take place every three to five years, depending on use level and ambient conditions of the location. This maintenance should take place regardless of the make and model of the bolted pressure switch.