Is your Air Compressor overheating?

With the current hot weather, it is not only us that feels the heat! Whilst overheating is a relatively common issue that affects Air Compressors, the occasional extreme heat experienced during summer could cause problems in your Compressed Air System. Or, intensify already existing issues. 

This is partly due to an increase in the amount of water vapor in the air. Heat and moisture combined can spell trouble any piece of machinery. The reason for overheating could be the ambient temperature has exceeded the compressor’s maximum operating temperature, although this is actually not the most likely reason for an air compressor overheating. A dirty radiator, low oil level, or mechanical issues within your air compressor system could be the actual reason for excessive heat. The good news is that the most common reasons behind an air compressor overheating can be prevented with routine maintenance and daily monitoring.

When your compressor begins playing up, it’s wise to start investigating the concerns early on; quickly identifying the problems will prevent unnecessary downtime or future production loss, given that any necessary maintenance or repairs are completed.

What are the common signs of compressor overheating?

Compressor Won’t Start or stops unexpectedly . Most air compressors today are fitted with safety cut outs that will automatically stop an air compressor if it detects that something within the compressor is wrong. The aim of this is to prevent the compressor from doing serious damage to– overheating could be the root cause. Other related signs are:

The compressor requiring longer rest periods between cycles.

The compressor being much slower in reaching peak operation.

Compressor Is making strange noises. Hearing creaking and crackling noises from your compressor is never a good sign.

Smelling burnt oil. That could be a sign that the compressor’s internal components aren’t adequately lubricated. Since lubrication serves as a coolant, little to no lubricant = the potential to overheat.

Here are a couple of quick & easy steps you can take to make sure your compressed air system is ready for summer.

Check oil levels- Compressors pass trace amounts of oil during operation. If the oil level is too low, the machine will not have proper flow through the cooler. Therefore, it can easily overheat. Check your compressor oil level at least once per week to make sure that it is at the proper level. The manufacturer’s manual has instructions for proper oil check procedures. If topping up, make sure you use the correct specification of oil. 

Clean Coolers - If the compressor operating temperature is too high, the coolers (or radiators) could be dirty.  Dirt accumulates inside of cooler, whether it be dust from the shop floor or pollen (for those who may have ventilation from outside). Get ahead of this before it becomes a problem by making sure the coolers are clean before the heat hits. A quick fix can be as simple as blowing the cooler out in reverse direction of the air path to get your machine up and operational.

Check Ventilation -  The ambient temperature of your compressor room tends to rise quickly on warm days, especially if the room is not properly ventilated. It is important to check the compressor room and adjust ventilation and air flow if necessary. Make sure the ventilation is clean and clear before the summer heat hits.

Check the drains - Higher humidity in the summer causes more condensate to drain from the drains. Make sure the drains are clear and working so they can handle the increased flow. Because the condensate sometimes mixes with the compressor oil, the water must be treated before it is released directly into the drain. Check treatment unit filters and separation tanks to ensure they continue to operate. 

Clean Air and Oil Filters - Dirty and clogged filters can cause pressure drops, causing the compressor to operate at higher levels to accommodate demand. Filter performance can also be affected by additional humidity, so it is important to follow regular maintenance schedules and add additional checks for seasonal changes.

Routine Maintenance- The simplest action to take to prevent overheating is to have routine maintenance performed on your compressor!

 

To talk to one of our team about your Compressed Air requirements please call 01903 257117 or email enquiries@air4ultd.co.uk