After learning about all the components in your centrifugal compressor you should now have a comfort level knowing about the parts and operation of your machine.
To keep your compressor running like new takes time for regular inspections and will also save money on operational cost. Many of the suggested inspections can be performed by your plant maintenance personnel and keeping detailed records will also help to understand problems as they arise. At the very least it will be helpful and therefore less costly when your compressed air professional needs to assist with any problems.
Below is a list of typical items you should be reviewing and the suggested frequency that items should be checked.
Scheduled Maintenance Procedures
Daily:
- Operating data logged during loaded operation and reviewed
Monthly:
- Inlet air filter elements inspected, (replaced if required)
- Oil reservoir venting system filter elements inspected, (replaced if required)
- Compressor bypass valve air supply filter checked (if applicable)
- Intercooler / aftercooler condensate removal system checked
- Control system operation checked
Quarterly:
- Compressor operations data analyzed
- Main drive motor bearings lubricated per motor manufacturers instructions
- Condensate traps cleaned and inspected
- Intercooler, aftercooler, and oil cooler performance verified
- Lubrication system oil analyzed
6 Month Interval
- Oil reservoir venting system (air ejector) filter element changed
- Oil system filter element changed (if required)
- Lubrication system oil tested and changed, (if required)
- Oil pump motor lubricated with recommended grease (if required)
- Coolant and condensate chemically tested
- Compressor inlet and discharge valves inspected
- Inlet guide vane assembly drive screw lubricated (if applicable)
- Bypass valve lubricated (if Required * Note manual recommendations)
- Bypass valve air supply filter replaced (If applicable)
- Bypass valve silencer element and gasket replaced
- Discharge air check valve inspected and tested for free operation
- Main drive coupling inspected (coupling type dependent – see manual for proper maintenance)
- Main drive motor maintenance checks completed and correct alignment verified
- Perform compressor surge test, recorded result and adjust control setpoints
To further assist you with the checks and inspections above you can download this list at the following link: Maintenance Checklist
To assist with your information collection you can find a checklist to download at the following link:
Of course there will always be items that are beyond the scope of your plant personnel. That’s when its time to call in a professional. We recommend an annual visit by your selected service company for detailed inspections on your equipment and to handle the more difficult maintenance that typically requires the unit to be dis-assembled to some degree.
Of course that doesn’t mean you should be out in the dark. You can download a checklist at the link below that helps you know in advance what items (minimum) that your professional technician should be covering and assist you in making sure all items are covered.
I hope the above lists and inspections items are helpful as you work to keep your compressed air system in top operating condition.
