Air Compressor Maintenance

Study Notes

Air Compressors

Air compressors should use food-grade approved oils by USDA/FDA to minimize deposits, temperature, wear, and maintenance.
Filters and water traps are necessary to separate water and condensate from the compressed air.

Piston Compressor Example

Unidad Compresora: aspirates and compresses atmospheric air.
Tank: stores compressed air.
Motor Eléctrico: drives the unit compresora through a belt and pulley, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.
Interruptor de Presión: turns the compressor on/off through a pressure switch.

Oil Quality and Maintenance

Using low-quality oil can cause deposits and carbon buildup in cylinders, increasing maintenance.
High-quality oils have high oxidation resistance and last longer (up to 8000 hours).

Dynamic Compressors

Radial (centrifugal) or axial flow compressors have continuous flow and fewer moving parts, reducing energy loss and heat generation.
Characteristics: oil-free air, constant air flow, variable flow rate with fixed pressure, high flow rate at moderate and low pressures.

Radial (Centrifugal) Compressors

Uses a series of vanes on a single shaft, sucking in air through a wide inlet and accelerating it through centrifugal force.
Lubrication is by high-quality R&O oil or grease.
Characteristics: oil-free air, continuous air flow, variable pressure with fixed flow rate, high flow rate at moderate and low pressures.

Conclusion

Before choosing an air compressor, consider the quality of air or gas to be compressed, and the need for filters, dryers, and other equipment.
Determine if a constant or periodic flow rate is required, and the necessary pressure.

Description

Learn about the importance of using high-quality food-grade oil in air compressors and how it affects performance, maintenance, and longevity. Understand the condensation process and its impact on compressors and storage systems.