The Best Practices for Maintaining Your Screw Air Compressor
Many successful businesses could not function without screw air compressors, yet improper use of them and a lack of regular maintenance for ones provided by Direct Air pose a safety risk. Improved availability and reduced maintenance and replacement costs could be in store for your successful business if it adopts sensible safety measures.
Here are some key reasons below why frequent screw air compressor maintenance is important.
Importance of proper maintenance for screw air compressors
Avoiding downtime
Air compressor maintenance improves the machinery’s reliability and performance and reduces unplanned breakdowns. Anyone in charge of an oil-free screw compressor facility knows that unscheduled downtime can be quite costly.
If companies don’t implement maintenance procedures regularly, they may see an increase in the frequency with which they experience performance problems. Unforeseen events like this can occur right when it matters the most, as during a high-stakes production with a firm deadline.
For peace of mind, always carry out regular maintenance on the appointed dates, even when everything appears to be working smoothly and there are no obvious signs of trouble.
Increase air compressor life and efficiency
Most importantly, regular maintenance extends the life of the air compressor and improves the system’s overall performance. You want your air compressor and other pneumatic tools to last as long as possible and work at peak efficiency so that you can get your money’s worth out of the initial purchase. Your compressor system should generate thousands upon thousands of dollars in return on investment.
Save money on energy
Scheduled air compressor maintenance lets you spot cases where a system component works harder than usual or cannot keep up with output demands. When problems emerge, they are usually the result of a component that has to be lubricated, cleaned, or replaced. By identifying and fixing these issues before they worsen, the machine consumes less power and operates more smoothly and effectively.
By conserving energy, you can reduce your production costs, which are money in your pocket and save your budget. You have more money to reinvest in your business when you have cheaper monthly energy bills.
Maintenance: tips for ensuring your compressor is running smoothly
Check oil levels regularly
Not all air compressors need oil, but those needing it need to have it often changed to keep the engine running smoothly. Workplace humidity can reduce oil viscosity, rendering it ineffective at lubricating the air compressor’s moving parts.
Oil should be checked frequently and replaced for optimal performance in cooler environments. When metal rubs against metal without lubrication, heat is generated, which can lead to stress along the path of the moving metal. Viscosity and impurities in the oil are key factors in how well it circulates.
Routinely change out your filters
Compressors are notorious for picking up all sorts of dirt, dust, and debris from the surrounding air and moisture, reducing their efficiency and rendering them useless. Filters should be changed weekly to prolong the compressor’s life and achieve the required output.
Purge the air intakes
The air compressor intake valve allows for the on/off regulation of airflow into the rotary screw compressor. When the set pressure is reached, the compressor will switch to “unload” mode, and the unloader valve will close nearly completely to prevent air from entering the unit. As much air was sucked in and compressed, this way could no longer be used. A well-maintained air compressor’s intake vents are essential to the device’s peak performance.
Advice for diagnosing and resolving common issues with screw air compressors
Source of energy
Don’t forget that compressed air can be used as fuel. Like any other energy source, there are risks associated with using it. Never exceed the safe operating pressure of a device, nor should you apply pressure to something that wasn’t designed to withstand it.
Pipe quality
Always use materials suitable for air compressors when planning and establishing a network infrastructure. PVC piping is strongly discouraged because it can become brittle and break, sending sharp shards of pipe in every direction.
Read the instruction manual
The manual for your device, while seemingly self-explanatory, actually contains a wealth of information that will be necessary to ensure that you get the most out of your purchase. Your equipment’s longevity depends on your adherence to the procedures stated in the manual.
Filter for air and linkup
Before each use, whether daily or infrequently, you should visually inspect the filter of your compressor. If it appears dirty or clogged, remove it, clean it, or swap out the filters. When turning on the air compressor, ensure the hoses are secured.
Educate your employees
Air compressor technology needs only to be operated by trained experts. It’s risky to provide an inexperienced person access to compressors and related machinery. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure the improvement of skills in the workplace.
Conclusion
It is critical to maintain a screw air compressor in order to ensure its performance and lifespan. By being aware of key procedures, such as monitoring oil levels and replacing air filters, you can ensure that your air compressor will operate far better and last longer.
