Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
High temperatures, combined with additional condensation in the air, can cause a strain on performance, unless you are prepared. That is why it is important that those responsible for installations and maintenance take the necessary time to prepare for the increased tension that their machines will face in the warmer months of summer.
With summer here and temperatures and humidity on the rise, your compressed air system will experience an additional water load on your air handling equipment. There is 650% more water in the air at the highest compressor operating conditions in the summer (40 ° C) compared to the higher temperatures normally seen during the winter months (15 ° C)! That's why it's critical Prepare the compressors for some of the most challenging conditions they will face throughout the year! Here are a couple of quick and easy steps you can take to make sure your compressed air system is ready for summer.
1. Clean Air and Oil Filters - Your vehicle gets better gas mileage when it has clean filters and the same goes for your air compressor; a compressor runs cooler and uses less energy when the air filters are clean. Dirty and clogged filters can cause pressure drops, causing the compressor to operate at higher levels to accommodate demand. Filter performance can also be affected by additional humidity, so it is important to follow regular maintenance schedules and add additional checks for seasonal changes.
2. Check Ventilation - We all breathe a little easier with increased airflow and so do our machines. Just as air and oil filters require special attention in the summer, it is important to check the compressor room and adjust ventilation and air flow as necessary. This is also a good opportunity to check for pollen and other air pollutants that are most prevalent in the spring months, to make sure the ventilation is clean and clear before the summer heat hits.
3. Check the drains - Higher humidity in the summer causes more condensate to drain from the drains. Make sure the drains are clear and working so they can handle the increased flow. Because the condensate sometimes mixes with the compressor oil, the water must be treated before it is released directly into the drain. Check treatment unit filters and separation tanks to ensure they continue to operate. It is a good idea to have a replacement service kit nearby to eliminate any downtime during maintenance.
4. Clean Refrigerators - Imagine you are running in the summer heat with a sweater on; It will impact how you sweat and how your body regulates its temperature. The same goes for your air compressor. Blocked or clogged refrigerators can cause an air compressor to overheat on hot summer days. Get ahead of this before it becomes a problem by making sure the coolers are clean before the heat hits.
5. Adjust Water Cooling Systems - For water-cooled compressors, adjust the temperature of the water entering the system to compensate for the rise in ambient temperature and to ensure it is suitable for summer conditions.
Taking a few extra steps to make sure your machines are summer ready means you will be rewarded by working hard for your process.
