Troubleshooting Your Air Compressor

Posted on: 27 November 2017

Air compressors play a valuable role in supplying the power needed for pneumatic tools to operate properly. When your air compressor begins to malfunction, your pneumatic tools could be rendered useless.

To avoid having to shutdown your production line due to ineffective tools, here are three tips that you can use to troubleshoot the performance of your air compressor in the future and recognize when you need the help of local compressor parts dealers.

1. Monitor the vibration of your air compressor.

When your air compressor is in operation, many mechanical components are moving in tandem to help generate the compressed air needed to power your tools. If these mechanical components are in good condition, your compressor will run smoothly.

If you notice that your air compressor begins to vibrate more than usual during use, then you should check the condition of your crankshaft. Replacing a bent or broken crankshaft will help eliminate vibrations that could cause further damage to your air compressor in the future.

2. Check the air pressure being supplied to your tools.

A sudden drop in air pressure could render your pneumatic tools useless. If you notice that your tools suddenly become less effective or stop working altogether, this could indicate a problem with your air compressor's ability to generate enough air. You should address air pressure problems by checking your compressor's air intake system.

An air filter that is clogged or broken will not allow sufficient air to pass into the compressor, leaving you with low air pressure. Replacing the filter can be a simple and effective way to restore functionality to your pneumatic tools be ensuring the air pressure they are supplied with is constant.

3. Check the quality of your compressor's engine oil.

Your air compressor uses engine oil to help dispel heat and maintain proper lubrication within its engine. The quality of your compressor's engine oil after use can reveal potential problems that need to be addressed in order to keep your compressor functioning properly.

If your air compressor's engine oil level appears to be dropping rapidly, you may need to replace a scored cylinder or replace worn piston rings to prevent oil over-consumption from compromising the function of your compressor in the future.

Being able to troubleshoot your air compressor by recognizing the signs of worn or faulty parts will help you know when to replace these parts in order to keep your air compressor running safely and efficiently well into the future.

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