Now that it is officially summer, hot and humid weather can cause numerous problems for your compressed air systems. Call Team Air Center (800) 247-2959

Hot weather will require additional maintenance for your air compressor.

• More Water – Warm air carries more water vapor; this adds stress to the filtration and drying system to provide the clean dry air your plant needs.

• Frequent Automatic Drains – More moisture in the air requires the drains to discharge additional water which can lead to failures.

• Lower Flow Rates – Air density decreases in warmer temperatures, resulting in the plant receiving less air through the intake.

• Reduced Turndown – The effective operating range of the compressor where efficient regulation using a throttle valve or inlet guide is now reduced due to the elevated intake air temperature.

• Increase Temperatures – The increase in ambient temperatures also affect the temperature of your cooling water or air for an air-cooled compressor further reducing your compressor efficiency.

How Air Center Can Help

1: Oil Changes – Summer heat and humidity can reduce the life of your oil by as much as half. Changing oil or fluid along with the filter will help remove acids, moisture, and wear metals. When using synthetic based lubricant, it is best to perform an oil analysis prior to hot weather to assure the best performance.

2: Manage the Fluid System – Ensure proper lubrication and cooling to prevent unscheduled downtime. Make sure there are no restrictions in the compressor’s fluid circulation. Regardless of oil type, the beginning of summer is a great time to change the oil filter.

3: Changing Inlet Filter – Changing the inlet filter on a schedule will keep compression efficiency up and maintain proper operating temperature by changing. Less air is drawn through the inlet during hot weather so keep restrictions as low as possible.

4: Checking Drive Couplings – Direct drive couplings are designed for extended use but should be checked for signs of wear to avoid unexpected downtime.

5: Compressor Room Ventilation – Poor ventilation can potentially reduce oil life, increase operating temperature, and decrease compressor efficiency. Make sure that you are giving your units enough cool positive air pressure. Properly sized fans or ductwork to remove exhaust heat, and thermostatic controls to reduce excess heat.

6: Maintain and Clean Coolers – Keeping the fluid and coolers free of debris for the lowest possible compressed air discharge temperatures. This will make dryers more effective and extend fluid life.

7: Checking the Electrical Cabinet – Dust can create additional insulation that may increase heat on electrical components. Ensure the cabinet fan is functioning properly and to prevent the buildup of dust and dirt.

8: Compressed Air Treatment – During hot summer months, not maintaining an aftercooler can decrease the capacity of the equipment.

9: Dryer Maintenance – Check refrigerant level, cleaning the condenser to prevent overheating and make sure that your dryer is well ventilated and getting the coolest air or water possible.

10: Check all drains on tanks, dryer, and filters – Adjust timed drains if possible and make sure that your drains are functioning properly so that they get that water out of your compressed air.

Call and schedule preventative maintenance with Air Center (800) 247-2959