The hot summer weather can take a toll on your compressed air system. You get tired and worn down when you’re working in the humid, 90+ degree heat and your air compressor is no different.
Your compressor operates on lower flow rates in the heat, meaning that there is a lower volume of air flowing through the intake. Your facility is then receiving less compressed air. The air temperatures rise as the temperature of the cooling water rises. As the temperature of the air rises, it means that there is more water in the air, causing the compressor to need to work that much harder. Automatic drains add to this effect, making your system work even harder.
In short, the summer temperatures create a taxing load for your air compressor system. But there are steps you can take to alleviate this load.
Help Your Air Compressor Survive the Summer Heat
Monitor the Fluid System
It’s important that the engine’s fluid circulation is working properly. This is critical in preventing further downtime later on.
Regularly Check Your Oil
Maintaining a schedule for oil changes can help you keep the proper engine viscosity. It helps ensure that the compressor’s engine is strong enough to remove moisture and toxins for better performance. The best time to check the oil is in the spring, right before the summer heat begins.
Change Your Inlet Filter
The proper operating temperature is critical. In the hot summer months, less air makes it through the inlet.
When you maintain a proper maintenance schedule for changing the inlet filter, you can improve your system’s compression efficiency, and maintain a stronger system.
Clean the Coolers
The coolers take on a critical job in the summer heat. When you keep them clear of dirt and debris, they are able to function at their highest levels. This will keep the dryers more effective and extend fluid life inside the system.
Check Your Electrical Cabinet
Dirt and dust can build up and raise the operating temperature of your electrical components. Make sure your fans are running smoothly and clean any filters inside your electrical cabinet that are showing buildup. Make sure to take all appropriate safety precautions as you complete these steps.
Evaluate Drive Couplings
You should make sure that drive couplings are in good condition to avoid later downtime. They are designed to last a long time, but they do wear down.
Maintain the Dryer
A refrigerated dryer operates best on clean and cool air or water. For this to occur it needs to be well-ventilated. If it’s clogged with dirt and debris, this isn’t the case. It’s also a good idea at this point to check the refrigerant level, to avoid unscheduled downtime.
Check the System Drains on the Dryer, Tanks and Filters
When your drains are working well, they can remove all water out of the compressed air, and the compressed air system. If your drain has a test button, running it should be relatively easy to check.
Evaluate Your Compressed Air Equipment
Keeping your after cooler clean is an important part in making sure that your equipment performs to manufacturer standards. Regular increases in temperature can decrease the capacity of your equipment.
Ventilate the Compressor Room
The important thing here is to make sure that your system is not exposed to excess heat. Adding duct work can remove excess exhaust from the room without exposing your equipment to damage. If you already have ductwork with thermostatic control, now is the time to make sure it’s in working order. Simply adding louvers or fans to the room can help keep the temperature down.
Conclusion
It’s important not to neglect your compressed air system – especially during the hot weather. When you can take these precautions, you can protect your system from unscheduled downtime. If you have questions or concerns, contact us today!
