What does Gardner Denver shutdown 118 open transducer PT1 mean?
Short answer: Open circuit on pressure transducer PT1. If your Gardner Denver AirSmart controller is showing SHUTDOWN #118 OPEN XDUCER XD1, 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?
The controller lost its connection to pressure transducer PT1 (reservoir pressure on standard controllers) and shut down as a protective measure.
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?
- Lost connection between pressure transducer PT1 and the controller — possibly transient
- Wiring disturbed by maintenance work near the transducer
- The reservoir pressure transducer failed open
Can you fix it yourself?
Try one reset in case it was transient. If it returns, the machine has lost its reservoir pressure signal and shouldn't be coaxed into running.
Step by step — what to try, in order:
- Press Stop/Reset once to see if the connection fault was transient
- Note if the fault started after maintenance work near the transducer
When do you need a technician — and why?
Transducer testing involves both the control wiring in the cabinet and a fitting on the pressurized reservoir circuit — an electrical and pressurized-system job in one.
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 #118 OPEN XDUCER XD1 mean on a Gardner Denver AirSmart controller?
Open circuit on pressure transducer PT1. The controller lost its connection to pressure transducer PT1 (reservoir pressure on standard controllers) and shut down as a protective measure.
Can I fix SHUTDOWN #118 OPEN XDUCER XD1 on a Gardner Denver AirSmart controller myself?
Try one reset in case it was transient. If it returns, the machine has lost its reservoir pressure signal and shouldn't be coaxed into running.
When does SHUTDOWN #118 OPEN XDUCER XD1 on a Gardner Denver AirSmart controller need a technician?
Transducer testing involves both the control wiring in the cabinet and a fitting on the pressurized reservoir circuit — an electrical and pressurized-system job in one. Call for service if the fault returns — transducer and wiring checks belong to a technician.
Verified against service documentation: Gardner Denver AirSmart controller documentation for SHUTDOWN #118 OPEN XDUCER XD1 (best-aire.com)