In many applications, dirt and dust
particles can pass through the air
compressor and gradually form deposits
on the interior surface of the compressor.
As these deposits accumulate, friction
increases and the compressor losses it
ability to generate the required head for
airflow.
While many operators are concerned
about the risk of dirt and dust particles, oil
vapor and water vapor in the air stream
poses a problem. During compression, oil
vapor and water vapor escapes with the
compressed air, and after compression
the air is cooled in the interstage cooler,
resulting in condesed vapors. If this
condensate is not removed, it causes
corrosion and blockage to the to the
compressed-air systems, hence reducing
airflow and production efficiency. To
prevent this, filters must be properly
located in the system, and an interstage
cooler with automatic drain traps must be
fitted into the air compressor.
•
adhered to when sizing distribution
systems.
Improper Configuration of
Distribution Systems: The main
objective of proper sizing and
configuration of distribution systems
is to transport the maximum
expected volumetric airflow from the
compressor to the point of use with
minimum pressure drop.
Poor distribution system configuration
can lead to insufficient airflow, and thus
affects the discharge pressure, robbing
the user of expensive compressed
air power. This is not limited to the
interconnecting piping from the
discharge of the air compressor to
the header. It also applies to the air
storage system and the distribution
line conveying air to production areas.
To prevent this, international quality
standards and guidelines must be strictly
Troubleshooting
Quickly diagnosing and correcting
application issues will help ensure that
small problems don’t become big ones.
Thus, it is important to always keep in
mind the old truism: “A problem identified
is half solved.” Table 1 provides guidance
on troubleshooting five common
problems.
Issue 32 PECM
87