Ultimate Guide to Screw Air Compressor Maintenance During Long-Term Storage

Introduction to Screw Air Compressor Maintenance

Screw air compressors are vital tools in industrial settings, providing compressed air for various applications from pneumatic tools to industrial processes.

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure their longevity and optimal performance, especially when these machines face extended periods of non-use. Whether your screw air compressor will be idle for weeks or months, following specific maintenance procedures is crucial to prevent damage and ensure it functions efficiently when needed.

Precautions for Long-Term Non-Use of Screw Air Compressors

Shutdown for More Than 2 Months

When planning to shut down a screw air compressor for more than two months, take these meticulous steps to safeguard its components:

1. Seal Openings: Close all openings securely to prevent dust and moisture from entering critical parts of the compressor.
2. Component Protection: Wrap safety valves, control panels, and sensitive components with oil paper or similar material to inhibit rust formation during storage.
3. Lubrication Maintenance: Before shutting down, replace the lubricating oil with a fresh supply. Run the compressor for at least thirty minutes to ensure the new oil circulates throughout the system. After a few days, drain any accumulated condensate from the oil and gas tank, oil cooler, and oil separator to prevent corrosion.
4. Cooling System: Completely drain the cooling water system to avoid stagnation and potential damage to the compressor’s cooling components.
5. Storage Environment: Store the compressor in a clean, dry area that is free from dust and humidity. This environment helps maintain the integrity of the machine’s internal components during its idle period.

Shutdown for More Than 3 Weeks

For shorter periods of non-use exceeding three weeks, consider these precautionary measures:

1. Electrical Components: Wrap motor control panels and other electrical equipment in plastic or oil paper to protect them from moisture infiltration.
2. Water Drainage: Ensure thorough drainage of water from the oil cooler and aftercooler to prevent corrosion buildup.
3. Maintenance Checks: Before shutdown, address any existing malfunctions or issues that could exacerbate during prolonged inactivity. Rectifying these problems beforehand ensures the compressor’s readiness for future use.
4. Condensate Management: After a few days of shutdown, conduct another round of draining to remove any accumulated condensate from the oil and gas tank, oil cooler, and aftercooler.

Restarting the Screw Air Compressor

When preparing to restart a screw air compressor after a period of non-use, follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Remove Protective Coverings: Remove plastic or oil paper from the machine and its components to prepare for reactivation.
2. Motor Inspection: Verify the insulation resistance of the motor, ensuring it meets or exceeds safety standards (typically above 1MΩ). This inspection mitigates risks associated with electrical faults during startup.
3. Startup Procedure: Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct startup procedure. This typically involves gradually introducing power to the compressor while monitoring critical parameters such as pressure and temperature. Conduct a thorough system check to verify that all components are operating correctly before resuming normal operations.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance during periods of prolonged non-use is essential for preserving the functionality and longevity of screw air compressors.

By adhering to these maintenance practices, you can minimize the risk of equipment damage and ensure your compressor remains reliable and efficient when needed. Remember to consult manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices for additional guidance tailored to your specific compressor model.

For further insights into screw air compressor maintenance, explore www.sollant.com.

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