The most common problem areas in an industrial air compressor
Leaks are significant sources of wastage in a compressed air system. Leaks can waste approximately 20 to 30 percent of the compressor’s output. Leaks can be generated by different parts of the system but the most common problem areas are couplings, hoses, tubes and piping, pressure regulators, open condensate traps and shut-off valves or pipe joints and threaded sealants. These compressor parts need maintenance and proactive leak detection otherwise they can make the air tools function less efficiently. Fittings and couplings for air hoses need to be durable and tight. Quick coupling fitting can be major reason for a pressure drop because air usually flows through more than one coupling to feed the end user equipment with each coupling causing up to 7psi pressure differential in its rated flow. This can be addressed by upsizing the connectors and hoses for minimum pressure differential. Hoses, tubes and piping are available through Quincy air compressor parts.
How to ensure that piping will not be the source of leaks
Piping is used to deliver compressed air to the end user equipment and processes. A quarter of an inch leak on the pipes at 100psi will cost more than $2,500 annually. Piping systems that are older than 5 years typically have 25% leaks which require a replacement through Quincy air compressor parts. Approximately 80% of the leaks are not audible and it will require leak detection to prevent the waste of money. Being proactive with leak detection will ensure a good quality of air that is corrosion free. If you will take a look at the piping system, you will see dust caused by particles in compressed air. If the filter is clogged, pressure will drop and will increase the risks of contamination on the end product. Sludge can result into corrosion which will substantially increase the number of leaks.
Stopping leaks at joints and connections
Leaks that occur on joints and connections can be solved easily by tightening the connection or replacing faulty compressor parts like couplings, fittings, pipe sections, hoses, joints, drains and traps. It is relatively easy to look for these replacement parts through Quincy air compressor parts. In some instances, leaks are the result of failed cleaning of threads or an improperly applied thread sealant. In order to avoid future problems with wasteful air leaks, it is important to buy high quality fittings, disconnects, tubing and hoses that have to be installed with an appropriate thread sealant.