The intake valve (suction valve) is a critical component of a screw air compressor system, installed at the inlet of the compressor airend. It regulates the volume of air entering the compression chamber, allowing the compressor to operate smoothly under load, unload, and stop conditions.
Main Functions
- Opens and closes the air passage leading into the compressor airend.
- Regulates air flow according to actual demand.
- Switches the compressor between load and unload (idle) modes.
- Prevents oil and compressed air from flowing back toward the air filter when the compressor stops.
- Helps release system pressure when the compressor switches to unload mode.
- Protects the compressor airend and keeps the machine running stably while saving energy.
Operating Principle
When the compressor starts, the intake valve is usually closed or only partially open to reduce the load on the motor. Once the machine reaches stable operating conditions, the controller sends a signal to the solenoid valve, causing the intake valve to open so that air can pass through the air filter and into the compressor airend.
When the system pressure reaches the set point, the intake valve closes or reduces its opening, switching the machine to unload mode. When the pressure drops below the set threshold, the valve reopens to resume load mode.