How Can Oil-free Air Compressors Be Maintained to Help Extend Their Service Life?

My customers often ask several questions about air compressors, with the most frequently asked question being, best way to maintain an oil-free compressor? As a supporting facility, oil-free air compressors (OFAC) require regular checks and maintenance over time. Throughout the entire process, from start-up to operation, it is essential to prepare materials and consumable parts to help extend the lifespan of these machines.

Before proceeding, follow the standard shutdown procedure by gradually reducing the speed to a very low level. Next, fully open the discharge valve to close the discharge door, turn off the motor, and wait for the compressor to come to a complete stop. Please note that the cooling water supply should remain operational for the next 30 minutes following the shutdown.

Secondly, after completing the operation of the OFACs, inspect the various levels of cutting edges as well as the fit between the cut pieces and the cutting object. If applicable, replace any cracked cutting pieces with new spare parts. Carefully examine the front cover of the cylinders at each level and assess the attrition rate on the mirror surface. If any signs of wear are present, investigate the underlying causes. Additionally, evaluate the abrasion on the cross slide and the friction surface in contact with the body guide. Remove the connecting rod head bushings and crosshead pins to inspect the friction surfaces.

Likewise, it is essential to check the oil level on the indicator to ensure it meets the minimum requirements. Manually inspect all the fasteners and connections on the machine, and promptly tighten them if any are loose. Observe and assess whether all the movable parts can move freely. Rotate the flywheel 2-3 times by hand to identify any jams or collisions.

Finally, assess the quality of the OFAC lubricant and replace it in a timely manner. Typically, a significant amount of fine metal particles can contaminate the lubricant after the initial operation due to wear and tear, as well as the cleaning action of the lubricant. Therefore, all lubricants should be replaced after 24 hours of initial operation, followed by an oil change every 200 hours thereafter. Subsequently, perform regular changes in accordance with maintenance requirements.

Air entering the compressor should be clean; however, some minute particles (approximately 1 micron or smaller) may still be present. Nevertheless, a minimal quantity of these tiny particles is unlikely to cause harm to the compressors.

I hope this information is helpful! Please let me know if you have any further questions.