The marking on the valve body:
- 16 bar — the set (trip) pressure at which the valve opens.
- D.10 mm — the nominal seat/orifice diameter.
- G 3/8″ — the connection thread.
- K0.55 — an AIRTEK manufacturer code/marking (exact meaning to be confirmed — we recommend checking the part’s technical datasheet before ordering).
The valve opens whenever compressed air pressure exceeds the allowable limit. Valve activation is a signal for the operator to check that the compressor head is functioning correctly — it is not a normal operating mode, but an indication of a fault in the pressure regulation system.
Technical specifications
| # | Parameter | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Type | Direct-acting safety (relief) valve |
| 2 | Manufacturer | AIRTEK S.R.L. (Italy) |
| 3 | Set pressure | 16 bar |
| 4 | Nominal seat diameter (D) | 10 mm |
| 5 | Connection | G 3/8″ |
| 6 | Manufacturer code/marking | K0.55 [exact meaning to be confirmed] |
| 7 | Working medium | Compressed air |
| 8 | Body material | Brass |
| 9 | Manual test ring | [to be confirmed whether this model has one] |
| 10 | Installation point | Compressor (compressor head) and receiver |
| 11 | Weight / dimensions | [to be confirmed] |
Compatibility
AIRTEK valves in this range are standardized safety components used by various manufacturers of piston and screw compressors designed for a working pressure of roughly 13–14 bar (the 16 bar setting provides the necessary margin before activation). When selecting an equivalent, it’s essential to match three parameters at once — set pressure, connection thread (G 3/8″), and seat diameter (10 mm) — not just the bar rating. Only the component specified in your compressor’s own specification should be used as a replacement — compare the specs against your old valve before ordering.
Key advantages
- Protection against tank rupture. Exceeding the allowable pressure limit can cause an accident with tank rupture — the valve prevents pressure from exceeding the 16 bar setting.
- Genuine, made in Italy. AIRTEK S.R.L. specializes in pneumatic and compressor equipment — the valve is built for the cyclical loads of a compressor station.
- Compact G 3/8″ thread. Standard connection compatible with a wide range of compressors and receivers.
- Wear-resistant materials. The brass body resists wear and provides a long service life with timely maintenance of the unit.
- Warning function. Valve activation isn’t just a pressure release — it’s a signal for the operator to check that the compressor head and the pressure switch are working correctly.
Applications
- Piston and screw compressors — installed directly on the compressor head.
- Air receivers — protection against overpressure if the pressure switch fails.
- Compressor stations in manufacturing, auto service, food industry, and woodworking.
Expert opinion
“A faulty safety valve is often the direct cause of an accident — especially if the pressure switch fails at the same time. At the slightest deviation in operation — leaking, sticking, incomplete closing — the valve must be replaced without delay. We recommend always keeping this valve in stock: replacing it without a long production stoppage is only possible if the part is already on hand.”
Sales copy
Exceeding the allowable pressure limit can cause an accident with tank rupture. The AIRTEK 16 bar valve prevents compression from exceeding this limit: as soon as compressed air pressure crosses the threshold, the valve opens — a signal for the operator to check that the compressor head is functioning correctly.
Made from wear-resistant brass, the valve provides long service life when the compressor is maintained on schedule. But a faulty safety valve — especially combined with a failed pressure switch — is often the direct cause of an accident. At the slightest deviation in operation, the valve must be replaced immediately, and only the component specified for your compressor should be used as a replacement.
We recommend keeping a safety valve in stock in advance — so that if your compressor needs to be restored to working order, the part can be replaced without delay or production downtime. Acvatron SRL supplies genuine AIRTEK valves — order today.
FAQ
1. How do I know when the valve needs to be replaced? A clear sign is air leaking at working pressure (below the 16 bar set point), sticking during activation, or the valve not closing fully after release.
2. Can the set pressure be adjusted on my own? No, the 16 bar setting is factory-set and sealed. If a different value is needed, a valve with the corresponding marking must be ordered.
3. Will this valve fit my compressor? Check three parameters at once: set pressure (16 bar), thread (G 3/8″), and seat diameter (10 mm) against what’s shown on your old valve or in the compressor’s manual. Send us a photo and we’ll help confirm compatibility.
4. What does the K0.55 code on the body mean? It’s an internal AIRTEK manufacturer marking. [exact interpretation to be confirmed from supplier documentation before publishing]
5. Why is it worth keeping one of these valves in stock? A faulty safety valve is an accident risk, especially if the pressure switch fails at the same time. Replacing a part that’s already in stock takes minutes; ordering one and waiting for delivery means days of production downtime.
