The importance of lubrication in a compressed air system
Lubrication has traditionally been an important part of pneumatic systems because it reduces friction between sliding surfaces. Lubrication reduces wear on moving parts, extends the usable life of the compressor and reduces the need for Quincy air compressor repair. Moreover, in the compressed air system, the use of lubricants minimizes both internal and external leakages around valve spools, cylinder rods and pistons, air motor and rotary actuator vanes, rotors and housings as well other components of the compressor. However, dispensing too much lubricant can be wasteful. If a pneumatic system is allowed to run dry for an extended period after receiving too much lubricant, residual oil can form a baked-on varnish on the internal surfaces that can hinder proper operation, performance and service life.
The importance filters for air compressor efficiency
An air inlet filter will protect the air compressor from atmospheric airborne particles, insects and dust. Inlet filters can be replaced by onsite technicians without the need to call on Quincy air compressor repair. Filters should replaced regularly particularly in areas that are prone to dust and dirt otherwise a high inlet pressure filter differential will reduce efficiency and the output capacity of the air compressor. The choice for the kind of filters is dependent upon the cleanliness of the air required. Coalescing filters are used for lubricants and moisture that have the highest differential while particulate filters are used after the desiccant dryer to remove desiccant fines. Oil and particulate filters should provide filtration only up to the level required by each application and replaced based on the manufacturer’s recommendations or when pressure differential exceeds excessive energy consumption.
The importance of condensate traps
Water separators are used to remove entrained liquids from air. They are usually installed following the air coolers for the removal of condensed moisture. Water separators are different from oil separators which are used within a lubricated rotary screw air compressor to recover lubricant from the compressed air discharge. There are four main methods used to drain condensate that include the zero air loss traps with reservoir that is normally easy to test and maintain. The electrically operated solenoid valves is set to drain worst case moisture loading while the float operated mechanical drains may require significant maintenance because they are prone to blockage from sediment. Manual drains can be used to discharge condensate and are often located at points where moisture problem is at its worst. However, this type of drainage is often avoided because the valves are not automatic and it they are left partially open, compressed air can escape.