What does Gardner Denver shutdown 110 high separator pressure mean?
Short answer: High separator tank pressure. If your Gardner Denver AirSmart controller is showing SHUTDOWN #110 HIGH SEP PRES, the controller has logged a specific, documented condition. This page covers what it means, what causes it, what you can safely fix yourself, and when — and why — it takes a technician.
What exactly is the machine telling you?
Pressure in the air/oil separator tank exceeded 190 PSIG (13 bar). The manual's action is to check for sources of high system pressure.
Which machines show this?
Gardner Denver rotary screw compressors fitted with the first-generation AirSmart microprocessor controller — a wide range of oil-injected packages, including VFD-equipped variable-speed units where the controller supervises the drive. The first-generation AirSmart reports problems as numbered codes: SHUTDOWN #1xx and #2xx faults that stop the machine, and ADVISORY #3xx warnings that let it keep running while flagging maintenance. That numbering matters when you search — the later AirSmart G2 dropped the numbers and displays plain-text fault names instead, so a numbered code on the screen tells you that you are on the earlier controller. Shutdowns clear with Stop/Reset once the machine has stopped; advisories acknowledge with the Enter key.
What causes it?
- Controller pressure settings above the plant's rated pressure
- Recently closed valves or blocked lines downstream trapping pressure in the tank
- A plugged separator element or faulty unloading valve driving tank pressure over 190 PSIG
Can you fix it yourself?
Partly — you can check settings and valve positions and try one monitored restart. Anything involving the separator element or unloading valve is off-limits to DIY.
Step by step — what to try, in order:
- Check controller pressure settings against your plant's rated pressure
- Look for recently closed valves or blocked lines downstream
- Press Stop/Reset and attempt one monitored restart
When do you need a technician — and why?
The air/oil separator tank holds stored pressure; opening any fitting on it, or replacing a plugged element inside it, must be done by a technician on a fully depressurized machine.
If it does come to a service call and you're in Nashville, TN or Birmingham, AL, we maintain independently compiled lists of local companies that service industrial air compressors — real businesses with verified contact information, none of whom paid to be listed.
Related questions
What does SHUTDOWN #110 HIGH SEP PRES mean on a Gardner Denver AirSmart controller?
High separator tank pressure. Pressure in the air/oil separator tank exceeded 190 PSIG (13 bar). The manual's action is to check for sources of high system pressure.
Can I fix SHUTDOWN #110 HIGH SEP PRES on a Gardner Denver AirSmart controller myself?
Partly — you can check settings and valve positions and try one monitored restart. Anything involving the separator element or unloading valve is off-limits to DIY.
When does SHUTDOWN #110 HIGH SEP PRES on a Gardner Denver AirSmart controller need a technician?
The air/oil separator tank holds stored pressure; opening any fitting on it, or replacing a plugged element inside it, must be done by a technician on a fully depressurized machine. Call for service if it recurs — a plugged separator element or faulty unloading valve must be handled by a technician on a depressurized machine.
Verified against service documentation: Gardner Denver AirSmart controller documentation for SHUTDOWN #110 HIGH SEP PRES (best-aire.com)