The ultimate resource to air compressor problems
Air compressors are essential tools that are used in a variety of industries. However, like any other machine, they can develop problems over time. Some of the most common issues that can arise with air compressors include technical failures, lack of maintenance, and lack of original spare parts.
Troubleshooting air compressor problems
Air Compressor Maintenance: Preventing and Solving Problems
Technical failures can occur due to a variety of reasons, including age, wear and tear, and damage to internal components. For example, the glass fiber and foam media in the air filter can be damaged by external factors such as oil, water, and heat, leading to an increase in oil carry-over and a decrease in air purity. Other technical failures can include issues with sensors, gearboxes, and heat exchangers.
Lack of maintenance can also lead to problems with air compressors. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the compressor continues to operate efficiently and effectively. This includes tasks such as checking and replacing air filters, oil filters, and separators, as well as checking for leaks and other issues. Neglecting maintenance can result in decreased performance, reduced lifetime, increased energy consumption, and increased breakdown time.
Finally, using non-original spare parts can also cause problems with air compressors. Original spare parts are designed specifically for use with the compressor and are manufactured to strict quality standards. Using non-original parts can result in decreased performance, increased wear and tear, and even damage to the compressor. In addition, using non-original parts can void the warranty and result in increased costs in the long run.
In addition to these common issues, there are several other reasons that can cause an air compressor to malfunction. For example, issues with the control system, such as problems with the regulator, can cause the compressor to stop working properly. The regulator maintains the net pressure between programmable limits by automatically loading and unloading the compressor. If there are issues with the regulator, the compressor may not be able to maintain the correct pressure.
Another potential cause of air compressor malfunction is problems with the sensors. Several temperature and pressure sensors are provided on the compressor, and if one of these measurements exceeds the programmed shut-down level, the compressor will be stopped.
In addition, improper installation, abnormal conditions of temperature, water, dirt or corrosive matter, operation above rated capacities, or tampering with the compressor can also cause failures or damage.
My air compressor is not working
There can be several reasons why an air compressor won’t operate. Some of the most common reasons include:
Leaking air:
Air leaks can occur in various parts of the compressor, such as the hoses, fittings, or the tank itself. This can cause the compressor to lose pressure and fail to operate.
Excessive air:
If the compressor is making excessive noise, it could be a sign of a mechanical problem, such as worn bearings or a damaged piston. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
Compressor humming:
If the compressor is humming but not starting, it could be due to a problem with the motor, such as a seised bearing or a failed capacitor. This can prevent the compressor from operating.
Oil doesn’t last long enough:
If the oil in the compressor is not lasting as long as it should, it could be due to a problem with the oil system, such as a clogged oil filter or a damaged oil pump. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
Excessive oil in the air compressor discharge air:
If there is excessive oil in the discharge air, it could be due to a problem with the oil separator or the oil system. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
Constant vibration:
If the compressor is vibrating excessively, it could be due to a problem with the motor or the compressor itself, such as a damaged bearing or a misaligned pulley. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
Compressor wont build pressure:
If the compressor is not building pressure, it could be due to a problem with the pressure switch, the check valve, or the compressor itself. This can prevent the compressor from operating.
Not enough pressure:
f the compressor is not producing enough pressure, it could be due to a problem with the pressure switch, the regulator, or the compressor itself. This can prevent the compressor from operating.
Extreme Stress on Pulley or Belts:
If there is extreme stress on the pulley or belts, it could be due to a problem with the motor or the compressor itself, such as a misaligned pulley or a damaged belt. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
Receiver Pressure Takes Too Long to Build:
If the receiver pressure is taking too long to build, it could be due to a problem with the compressor, such as a damaged piston or a clogged air filter. This can prevent the compressor from operating.
Air Comes Out Too Hot:
If the compressor is getting bogged down, it could be due to a problem with the motor or the compressor itself, such as a damaged bearing or a seized piston. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
Compressor Gets Bogged Down:
If the air coming out of the compressor is too hot, it could be due to a problem with the cooling system, such as a clogged air filter or a damaged fan. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
Milky Oil in the Reservoir::
If the oil in the reservoir is milky, it could be due to water contamination. This can cause the compressor to stop working.
It is important to address these issues promptly to ensure that the air compressor continues to operate efficiently and effectively.
Here are some informative videos you may find helpful:
Servicing your Peerless Products oil-less air compressor
Servicing & repairing an old Peerless Piston air compressor
Air leaking from air compressor pressure switch
