Portable Air Compressor Maintenance

Compressed air is the air that is kept under a certain pressure, usually greater than that of the atmosphere. Compressed air is one of the most important sources of energy for the industries. While making use of compressed air in various industries, it is important to ensure that the compressed air supply must always meet the compressed air demand. This can be done by utilising sufficient storage and effective distribution system.

You must ensure that you make use of proper sized compressors and purification equipment as they would enable you to meet the compressed air demand with the current available compressed air supply. If the compressed air supply, storage, and distribution are not in sync, excessive pressure fluctuation is likely to occur.

While using compressed air equipment, you would sometimes confront compressed air leaks. In case you find that your compressed air equipment is leaking, you may make use of Ultrasonic leak detection. Ultrasonic detectors work by 'listening' in a frequency band normally containing no interference and one that is inaudible to humans (above 20 kHz). Ultrasonic air compressor leak testing can generate great savings in all industrial plants. It helps in detecting leaks in compressed air or gas systems, vacuums, steam traps, tanks, window seals and the like. Ultrasonic leak detection system is also helpful in detecting mechanical malfunctions in worn bearings, gears, mechanical movable parts within casings, and the like.

As well as air compressor leak testing, you may also undertake air compressor pressure testing in order to ensure that your compressed air equipment is working in the right way. You may either use a regulated air compressor or an air tank with a single stage regulator to perform this test. As far as tanks go, Nitrogen is recommended because it is cheap and does not freeze up as CO2 may.

It's imperative to carry out regular maintenance. Some of the air compressor maintenance tips that would help you make the most of your air compressor are the following:

Drain the moisture from the tanks: The receiver tank collects moisture from the air that it's compressing. So, you must drain the moisture that gets collected in the tanks. Most tanks have a valve for draining this moisture. Before draining the water you need to be sure to release the air pressure from the tanks.

Clean Intake Vents: If you force your air compressor to work too hard to intake air, it would gradually degrade the quality of your tool. So, you must be sure to keep your intake vent as clean as possible.

Tighten All Fasteners: This is one of the most important maintenance tips. After a certain point of time, due to vibration and movement, the air compressor loosens its screws, nuts, and bolts. So, you must check them periodically and tighten them up.

Check Hoses Regularly: Check all your hoses periodically. If they are cracked or corroded they could soon begin to leak and then place undue strain on the rest of the components.

Clean the fuel tank: You must clean your fuel tank to ensure optimal operating conditions.

In addition to the air compressor maintenance, you must also keep the compressed air safety in mind. Compressed air safety depends on the following factors:

• All pipes and fittings must have a rating of the maximum pressure of the compressor.
• Air hoses should be kept free of grease and oil to reduce the possibility of deterioration.
• Air supply shutoff valves should be located near the point-of-operation.
• Hoses should not be strung across floors so that they may cause personal injury.
• Whenever it is possible, air supply hoses should be suspended overhead so that they do not cause accidents and injuries.
• Hose ends must be secured so as to prevent whipping in case an accidental cut or break occurs.
• Compressed air must not be used to clean dirt and dust from clothing or off a person’s skin.
• Pneumatic impact tools, such as riveting guns, should never be pointed at a person.
• Goggles, face shields, and other eye protection devices must be worn whilst using compressed air for cleaning equipment.

If you keep these points of air compressor maintenance and compressed air safety in mind, you will be abel to extend the life of your equipment and most importantly keep operating costs to a minimum.