Main Power Disconnect
Install a main power disconnect switch in the power line to
the compressor, near the compressor's location. It is operated
manually, but when it is in the ON position, the compressor will
start up or shut down automatically based on air demand.
ALWAYS operate this switch to OFF when the compressor is not
being used.
Pressure switch (see A)
This switch turns on the compressor. It is operated manually,
but when in the ON position, it allows the compressor to start up
or shut down automatically, without warning, upon air demand.
ALWAYS set this switch to OFF when the compressor is not
being used, and before unplugging the compressor.
WARNING:
For your safety, tank pressure is preset
within the switch and must never be tampered with.
This switch must not be adjusted by the operator; doing so
will void the warranty. The pressure switch controls the level of air
pressure in the tank by automatically starting and stopping the
motor, as required to maintain the factory preset pressure level.
The pressure switch also automatically bleeds pressure from
the pump head when the pump stops. This feature eliminates
back pressure in the pump, ensuring easier starting.
Tank Safety Valve (see B)
Used to allow tank pressure to escape into the atmosphere.
MOTOR RESET SWITCH
WARNING:
Ensure that all guards and shrouds are in
place before pressing the reset switch to restart the
motor.
TOPS senses both temperature and current, providing more
complete motor overload protection
than a magnetic starter, which
senses only current. If TOPS
senses an overload condition, it will
automatically shut down the
compressor. Allow 10-15 minutes
for the unit to cool down, than press
the reset button on the motor to
restart the compressor.
If the motor shuts down because of overload, wait 10–15
minutes so the motor can cool down, then press (NEVER force)
the reset switch (see E) to restart the motor (see Fig. 4).
ELECTRICAL WIRING
Refer to the air compressor's serial label for the unit's voltage
and amperage requirements. Ensure that all wiring is done by a
licensed electrician, in accordance with the National Electrical
Code. Use electrical conduit to protect the wiring.
MAIN POWER PANEL
For best performance and reliable starting, the air
compressor must be installed on a dedicated circuit, as
close as possible to the electrical power panel. Provide circuit
breaker or fuse protection at your main power panel. Use time
delay fuses on the circuit, because the compressor will
momentarily draw several times its specified amperage when first
started.
200-2796
COMPRESSOR CONTROLS
ELECTRICAL POWER REQUIREMENTS
Fig. 4
E
If the pressure switch does not shut off the compressor at it's
"cut-out" pressure setting, the safety valve will protect against
high pressure by releasing tank pressure at it's factory set
pressure (slightly higher than the pressure switch "cut-out"
setting). To operate manually, pull the ring on the valve to relieve
air pressure in the tank.
Pressure Release Valve (see C)
The pressure release valve (located on the bottom of the
pressure switch), is designed to release compressed air from the
compressor head and outlet tube when the compressor reaches
"cut-out" or is shut off. The pressure valve allows the motor to
restart freely. When the motor stops running, air will be heard
escaping from this valve for a few seconds. No air should be
heard leaking when the motor is running or after brief release
after reaching "cut-out" pressure.
Tank Pressure Gauge (see D)
This gauge measures
the pressure level of the
air stored in the tank. It is
not adjustable by the
operator, and does not
indicate line pressure.
MAIN POWER DISCONNECT SWITCH
Install a main power disconnect switch in the line from the
panel to the compressor. The main power disconnect switch must
be located near the compressor, for ease of use and safety.
When turned OFF, the main power disconnect switch shuts off all
power to the compressor. When it is turned ON, the compressor
will start and stop automatically, controlled by the pressure
switch.
LOW VOLTAGE PROBLEMS
Low voltage will cause difficult starting or an overload. Low
voltage can be caused by a low supply voltage from the local
power company, other equipment running on the same line, or
inadequate wiring. If any other electrical devices are drawing from
the compressor's circuit, it may fail to start.
Low voltage to the compressor can be caused by a supply
wire of insufficient gauge for the distance between the
compressor and the power source. The longer the distance, the
larger the wire gauge (lower the number) must be, to overcome
the inherent voltage loss caused by the wire resistance. Refer to
the National Electrical Code to determine proper wire size for
your circuit.
If the wiring is not adequate, the input voltage will drop by 20
to 40 volts at startup. Low voltage or an overloaded circuit can
result in sluggish starting that causes the circuit breaker to trip,
especially in cold conditions.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be connected to a grounded, metallic,
permanent wiring system, or an equipment - grounding terminal
or lead on the product.
7
A
B
(Measures pressure in
C
tank, not line pressure)
Fig. 3
D