Air compressor pressure regulating valve system

Abstract

An air compressor pressure regulating system which controls the operation of an air compressor. A variable speed driver, which is controlled by a throttle, controls the speed of the driver. A compressor valve integrally regulates the airflow to the compressor inlet. The pressure regulating valve is connected between the compressor outlet and a closed reservoir. The pressure existing in the closed reservoir directly effects both the operation of the compressor throttle and the compressor valve. The pressure regulating valve includes of two movable diaphragms (or pistons), which are spaced parallel to each other and which are connected to each other by a rigid connecting member producing similar motion in both diaphragms. The compressor outlet pressure is exposed to the first side of the first diaphragm. The reservoir pressure is exerted on the second side of the first diaphragm as well as the first side of the second diaphragm. An adjustable spring force and the vented atmosphere act on the second side of the second diaphragm. When the compressor outlet reaches a sufficient pressure, dependent on the reservoir pressure, both diaphragms will be jointly raised toward their respective second sides, and compressed air will be permitted to freely flow from the compressor outlet area to the closed reservoir.