Why Rust Forms on Air Compressors
At the start of any air compressor’s product life cycle, the equipment has very little to no water inside. Once it is put into use, the chemical reaction between the existing gases inside the tank such as oxygen and hydrogen results in moisture that interacts with iron present in the tank. The amount of moisture or water increases with the continued use of the compressor.
While condensation produced by the air compression process can go out via the nozzle, the remaining 10% inside the tank condenses and becomes water. This, in turn, results in rust forming inside the tank. Rust is a highly corrosive chemical reaction that can compromise the integrity of your compressor’s tank. If this occurs, it has to be replaced to ensure everyone’s safety.
How to Prevent Rust Formation?
Rust prevention is the best way to protect your air compressor tank safe from the irreparable damages caused by rust. The most effective way to achieve this is by draining your tank regularly after each operation, or that would mean daily. Doing this gets rid of the condensation that is pooling at the tank’s bottom. Following the draining, just leave the valve open for several hours first to let the interior of the tank dry out.
A great alternative is to use an after cooler that is attached to the tank that will prevent water vapour from entering the tank. It serves as a filter that collects warm air and cools it, and thus, prevents moisture from forming in the first place while eliminating the heat that adversely impacts the compressor. For optimal results, the after cooler must be connected to the discharge of your used air compressor in Toronto.
So now you know how critical it is to prevent rust from forming inside your compressor’s tank. Keep in mind those tips mentioned above so that you can use your compressor for a long time.