Tuesday, July 12, 2016

Guarding Air Compressors Against Summer Heat

For any equipment, the summer time brings additional concern as the rising temperature can affect its performance and condition. The heat also negatively affects air compressor systems, especially when the proper precautionary measures were not taken.

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Excessive heat can neutralize the oils that compressors commonly use. It is a rule of thumb in the industry that the lifespan of compressor oil is halved when it is used at 20 degrees more than normal operating temperature.

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Oil change must be done at a longer interval to make sure that the oil does not experience high acid amount, reduced lubricity, and increased viscosity. Lube analysis must also be monitored more frequently.

Air compressor systems that are utilized in an environment with elevated temperature and poor ventilation pass more water into the air system, around six times more than normal. A 20-degree rise in air temperature will result in the compressed air including twice as much water vapor that is condensed out in the pipes and equipment.

Preventive maintenance measures must be taken to ensure the optimal operation of the air compressor system. Drains and ventilations should be checked more often so that there is sufficient provision for extra air flow. Coolers and filters need to be cleaned more frequently and thoroughly to prevent overheating and to save more energy.

Eaton Compressor manufactures high quality, next generation air compressors, using a meticulous process of research, design, and engineering. Visit this blog to read more about air compressor systems.