In this article, we'll break down the essential air compressor components and have a look at what each component does. Each part of your air compressor has a specific function and contributes to the overall performance and efficiency of the equipment.
Understanding the key components of an air compressor is crucial for ensuring its optimal performance. Below is a concise overview of the essential parts and their functions:
Motor: Powers the compressor, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.
Compression element: Where the actual compression of air takes place. This can be piston, screws, scrolls... depending on the machine.
Storage tank or air receiver: Stores compressed air and stabilizes pressure fluctuations, ensuring a steady supply of air. The storage tank also functions as an air-oil separator for oil injected compressors.
Pressure switch: Monitors the pressure in the tank and switch the compressor between load and unload to maintain the desired pressure level.
Intake valve: Controls the airflow entering the compressor element. Closes during unload and opens during load.
Discharge valve: Releases compressed air from the air receiver tank to the compressed air installation.
Non-return valve or check valve: This valve ensures that when the compressor unloads or stops generating air, it retains the pressure in the downstream system.
Air filter: Removes contaminants from the incoming air to avoid dirt and dust particles in the compression process.
Oil filter: Removes dirt particles from the compressor oil to protect the compressor element and bearings.
Regulation system: Regulates the air pressure from the tank, allowing users to set and maintain the desired level for consistent and safe operation.
Lubrication system: Ensures moving parts are properly lubricated to reduce wear and tear.
Oil separator: Specifically for oil-injected compressors, it is embedded inside the separator vessel and separates the oil particles from the compressed air.
Water separator: One of the critical screw air compressor components, it removes condensed water vapor from compressed air.
Cooling system: Prevents the compressor from overheating during operation.
Control and monitoring system: help monitor and operate the compressor effectively.
Now that you're familiar with the key components and functions of air compressors, here's a list of parts that may need periodically replacement.
Filters and Separators: Dust and dirt contamination can damage rotors and their housings, leading to performance losses. High-grade filtration efficiency and specific filter elements ensure your installation's uptime. Designed to withstand high operating pressures, Atlas Copco filters offer superior service life due to their high dirt holding capacity and temperature resistance.
Line Filter Cartridges: Using ISO-certified filter cartridges ensures compressed air remains free of contaminants. Atlas Copco cartridges provide high filtration efficiency, preventing particles from spreading into the air. Benefits include minimized pressure drops, low energy consumption, and extended lifetime.
Oil, Lubricants, and Fluids: Incorrect compressor oil can cause poor air/oil separation, metal corrosion, deposit formation, and inadequate lubrication, potentially resulting in low air quality and shortening equipment lifespan. Atlas Copco's specially formulated lubricants, with a mix of additives, ensure oxidation resistance, prevent foaming, and improve air quality.
Maintaining your air compressor is vital for ensuring optimal performance and preventing premature repairs. Regular inspections and servicing of key components are particularly important for rotary screw air compressors. By addressing minor issues promptly, you can prevent them from escalating into major problems.
Every component of your compressor plays a crucial role in ensuring its overall performance, delivering the reliability, longevity, and energy efficiency you expect. That's why it’s important to only use Genuine Parts that are designed, manufactured, and tested specially for your compressor and meet the highest standards.
Atlas Copco's service plans ensure your machine consistently operates at high standards. No matter which service level you choose, our expertise simplifies the process, guaranteeing timely maintenance and quick procurement of necessary components, all without any hassle.
The 5 most important parameters influencing the oil are temperature, humidity, dust or air quality, metal and oxygen. Some of them are almost always present in the compressor or compressor room and can be seen as a constant influence...
