My customers usually would ask a few questions about Air Compressors, and the most FAQ was “The best way to maintain an oil-free compressor”. As a supporting facility, Oil-free air compressors(OFAC) need to be checked and maintained regularly after a period of time, in the overall process from start-up to operation, to prepare materials and consumable parts to help extend the lifespan of those machines.
Before that, follow the normal shutdown procedure to simply reduce the speed gradually to a very low level. Then switch on the discharge valve completely to close the discharge door, switch off the motor and wait for the entire compressor to stop. Please take note that the cooling water supply should remain working for the next 30 minutes after the shutdown.
Secondly, after completing the operation of the OFACs, check the various levels of cutting edges as well as the fits between the cut pieces and the cutting object. Replace the cracked ones with new spare parts on the cutting pieces, if applicable. Take a closer look at the front cover of the cylinders at each level and see the attrition rate on the mirror surface. In case of signs, find out why. Examine the abrasion of the cross slide and the friction surface with the body guide. Remove the connecting rod head bushings and crosshead pins to check the friction surfaces.
Likewise, it is essential to check the oil level on the indicator to make sure it meets the minimum requirements. Manually hand-pull all the fixings and connections on the machine, and fix them back promptly if there is any looseness. Observe and judge whether all the movable parts can flexibly move. Turn the flywheel 2-3 times by hand to find out any jams and collisions.
Finally, look over the quality of the OFAC’s lubricant and replace them timely. In a normal case, a large number of fine metal specks of dust would enter the lubricant after the initial operation, due to the wearing and tearing, and the cleaning effect of the lubricant. Therefore, all lubricants should be replaced after 24 hours of initial operation, and then change the oil after 200 hours of again. Afterward, do regular changes in accordance with maintenance requirements.
Air coming to the compressor should be clean; although some tiny (around 1 micron or less) particles might enter. However, a very low quantity of tiny particles might not be harmful to the compressors.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
