Industrial air compressors are subject to significant wear and tear, requiring frequent servicing. To keep your compressor operating properly at all times, you must conduct regular maintenance checks.
In this article, we outline how to maintain your air compressor effectively and why regular maintenance is so critical for industrial air compressors and also outline the key parts you need to maintain.
How to maintain your air compressor
When operating an industrial air compressor, the following parts should be checked and maintained regularly.
Compressed air filtration
Every 1,000 to 2,000 hours of use, replace the air filters and service the oil/water separator. In addition, test the water quality of the oil and water separator at least monthly and, if it reaches a high oil concentration before the normal service interval, change the filter cartridges. Finally, treat the condensate before disposing of it into storm-water drains.
Condensate drains
At least once a month, you will need to check your condensate drains. This will prevent moisture from building up inside the machine.
Valves
Once a month, check the drain valves and/or switch valves to ensure they are functioning correctly and allowing air to flow as needed.
Belt
Once a month, check and adjust the tension of the belt.
Desiccant air dryer
Conduct a basic check every 3 to 6 months, including a check of the monitor dew point, switching valves, muffler, and desiccant. Conduct an additional check every 2 years, inspecting the related pre and post-line filtration elements.
Refrigerated air dryer
Conduct a basic check every 1,000 to 2,000 hours of use, including a check of the drain valves, clean strainers, blow-out condenser coils, and suction pressure. Conduct an additional check every 4,000 hours of use, inspecting the airline filtration elements.
Compressed air piping
During planned shutdowns every 4,000 hours of use, conduct an air test of all piping to check for any leaks. If you identify any pressure drops or potential damage, this will need to be repaired or replaced as soon as possible to reduce inefficiencies.
Benefits of regular compressor maintenance
Maintenance shutdowns will have two objectives — to repair any identified problems and to inspect parts of the plant that are not accessible during operation. The key benefits of conducting regular shutdowns are highlighted below.- Reduced downtime.
- Prolonging equipment lifespan.
- Improved safety.
- Optimising performance and energy efficiency.
Reduced downtime
By servicing your equipment regularly, you can be better prepared for any breakdowns or system issues. By inspecting your system, you can replace worn parts before it’s too late, ensuring your operations can continue uninterrupted.
Prolonged equipment lifespan
Conducting regular maintenance will keep your equipment operational for a longer amount of time. Over time, this will reduce your costs and operational downtime.
Improved safety
Well-maintained equipment dramatically improves workplace safety, boosting productivity and reducing potential hazards.
Optimised performance and energy efficiency
When equipment is overworked and poorly maintained, it will lead to costly inefficiencies. Fortunately, regular services will ensure your compressed air system is operating at its best.
Leak detection
By servicing your air system frequently, you can detect air leaks in your piping much faster.
This will save thousands of dollars in wasted power each year.
Spare parts
Sourcing the right spare parts can be difficult, especially when you’re under time pressure from an unexpected system breakdown. By inspecting your system regularly, you can always have the necessary spare parts on hand.At Industrial Air, we can supply all the spare parts you need, including:
- Industrial air filtration.
- Compressed air piping systems.
- Compressed air valves.
- Air dryers.
- Condensate drains.
- Belts.
- And more.
Air compressor maintenance services
At Industrial Air Systems, our nationwide service network is here to help. With full servicing for all our industrial systems, we will maximise your productivity and reduce operating expenses. When using our systems, we’ll back you 100% with the following:- 24/7 guaranteed service backup.
- Full services for all Industrial Air Systems products.
- Comprehensive system design and installation.
- Complete air audits and leak detection.
- Air quality testing.
- Vibration analysis.
- Rental compressor units.
- Spare parts from all major brands.
All our products and services are fully backed by our Master Maintenance team, guaranteeing timely, professional, and effective service every time. To learn more about our services or ask about our spare parts, see our full services page at the link below.
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