Air Compressors | Ways to Extend their Life
Looking to extend the life of your commercial or air compressors? Read below to find out how…
Research shows that up to 70 percent of manufacturers worldwide use air compressors. This makes compressed air one of the most widely used – and highly efficient – forms of energy in several industries today. This means the machine is used daily and would require lots of top-notch maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape.
It is not enough to buy high-quality. If you do not provide adequate maintenance, the equipment may not work when you need them to. This is why it is super-important to carry out what is referred to as ‘preventative maintenance.’ This helps to prolong the life of the machine, enabling you to get the most out of it
In other words, the lifetime and efficiency of your air compressor will depend significantly on excellent maintenance. Here are some ways to extend the life of your air compressors.
Always Use the Operating Manual
When an issue with your air compressor arises, do not just try to fix them the way other machines are repaired.
Ensure you reference the operating manual of the air compressor. Follow every instruction for repair and operation closely. If you are not too sure how you should correct a specific problem, you may have to get in touch with a highly reputable technician for assistance.
Tighten All Loose Bolts
Air compressors vibrate during operation. This can cause bolts and screws to work themselves loose over time.
Therefore, make sure you carefully examine and tighten all loose fasteners every month. Doing this regularly helps keep your equipment in excellent shape while preventing any eventual machine breakdowns and costly repairs.
Drain Contaminants and Moisture
The receiver tank of air compressors collects moisture from the air they compress. Ensure you empty the tanks from time to time in order to prevent the build-up of water within the system.
Ensure you check systems such as separators, filters, etc., for eliminating contaminants such as oil, etc.
Check Oil Levels
Air compressors will not operate correctly unless they are adequately lubricated. This is why it is a good idea to always check the oil levels of your air compressor at least once every day or each time they are used.
You can check the oil level of the equipment by locating the machine’s oil level sight glass. In an ideal situation, the oil level should be around the center mark of the gauge or halfway up. If the oil level is not up to the specified marks, level it immediately.
Check and Replace Filters
During operation, air compressors pull in air and moisture. In the process, the equipment also grabs dust and debris floating in the air within the surrounding environment.
This is where the air filter comes in. Filters catch the dust particles and debris so that they do not block or get stuck right inside the air compressor. This is why you should always change the filters from time to time, at least once a week if the air compressor operates every day. The new filters will work efficiently, and compressors will operate smoothly.
If you own, run, or manage oil-injected air compressors, changing the oil filter from time to time is also essential. Ensure this is done every week in order to prevent the build-up of debris that can severely damage the machines.
Bear in mind that each air compressor model has its unique process for replacing the oil filter. Check the air compressors’ operating manuals to ensure you follow the specific instructions for changing the oil filter.
Always Look and Listen
There are many types of commercial compressors out there that produce different sounds. So it’s important Always keep your ears carefully tuned for strange, unexpected noises. Watch out for belts that slip, excessive vibration, etc.
Be aware of precisely what the air compressors’ gauges should read during regular operation and after. By monitoring the equipment closely, you prevent significant and costly damage.
Check Air Quality
Corrosion or fluid within the system can bring about airstream contamination. This can significantly – and negatively – impact your day-to-day operation with your air compressor.
Make sure you regularly inspect the filters, air-lines, as well as other parts of the air compressor. This makes it easier to spot locations where airstream contamination is imminent, and you can take steps to prevent it.
You need to also ensure that the overall quality of air that flows through the system is dirt- or dust-free as much as possible.
Monitor the Temperature
Air compressors typically function within a specific temperature range (find this info in the manual).
Therefore, any air compressor that becomes somewhat too hot during operation may bring about unnecessary wear and tear. This ultimately shortens the lifespan of the air compressor and necessitates the purchase of a brand-new one, which is often very expensive.
Some air compressors come integrated with shutdown systems that immediately initiate shutdown sequences when the equipment becomes overheated.
This is why you mustn’t give room for the air or commercial compressor to overheat. You have to get familiar with the temperature limitations of your air compressor. Test all shutdown features to be sure they perform excellently when required.
Address All Repair Issues as Soon as Possible
When your air compressor experiences mechanical issues, you must schedule repairs as soon as possible.
If left unattended, and over time, damaged or worn parts may cause additional damage to your air compressor. Waiting too long will mean higher repair costs, or you may even be forced to get a new air compressor altogether.
Moreover, make sure the repair service working on your air compressor only uses the most appropriate compressor parts, especially if some components need replacement during repair work.
Work with a reputable air compressor specialist to ensure every issue with your air compressor is resolved correctly and quickly.
Conclusion
Air compressors are among the most important industrial equipment in several industries today. There typically is a surplus of various parts and models to find for your business needs.
This is why specialists highly recommend that you carry out preventative maintenance. This ensures the smooth running of the air compressor while minimizing the need to spend lots of money on expensive repairs in the future.
From industry standards like Ariel compressor parts to Dresser Rand compressor parts, we carry compressor parts you can trust and a service you can count on.
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