The essential air compressor inspection checklist
Atlas Copco follows a standardized checklist during both oil-injected and oil-free air compressor inspections. The list includes the overhaul and replacement of certain parts.
However, for the purpose of this article we’ve only included the essentials for maintenance procedures. For the most part you can check these yourself or rely on a qualified member of your staff.
Make sure you refer to the air compressor manufacturer’s manual. It is your best guide.
- Take service readings (air, oil, water, temperature, and pressure)
- Check for air, water, and oil leakages
- Check the air intake chamber
- Check all the various filters and filter elements
- Check and adjust the various valves and switches
- Check bolt and coupling connections as well as rubber inserts
- Check the condition of all the fans, air paths, motors, and drive gears
- Clean cooling system and check if it functions correctly
- Check all the oil elements and change the oil
- Check for the presence of water in the oil
- Check for loose wiring and connections
- Check and clean the gearcase
- Check the condition of the hoses (this can be added somewhere in the list)
More tips when conducting a compressor inspection
When conducting your inspection pay attention to these signs.
- Is there an error message on the compressor’s monitoring systems?
- Do you notice any excess moisture or condensation? Has it increased over time?
- Is there more noise or rattling than usual? Is it too loud when running? Is there an inconsistent noise level?
- Are your breakers tripping frequently? Does it happen when you turn on the compressor or soon after?
- Has there been a loss in air pressure? Is it inconsistent?
- Is there overheating? Is it getting hotter than usual? Is the discharged air too hot?
- Is there excess oil consumption? Is there oil in the discharged air? Does the oil have a milky appearance?
Conclusion
The key to getting the best performance from your air compressor is to maintain a regular preventative maintenance schedule. You stick to a compressor inspection routine and act immediately.
The first 7 to 8 years of the air compressor’s life cycle are critical. After the 7-year mark you can start to see a decrease in energy efficiency or performance.
With proper care your compressor can give you 10 to 15 years’ worth of high performance.
Do the inspection yourself or hire a servicing team.
If you do the inspections yourself get familiar with reading the compressor manual. It’s your best source of information.
If you’d prefer to hire a service team then get in touch with the air compressor manufacturer directly. Their service teams will be the best ones for the job. And the manufacturer will most likely offer you an affordable service plan.
Consider giving Atlas Copco Compressor Repair Service a try. We will apply our expertise to your machines regardless of the manufacturer or type.
