Regularly maintaining your portable compressor can have a large impact on its expected lifecycle, and this means a better return on investment for you and your business. Portable compressed air is used for lots of different applications from woodworking to fibre optic installation, power for CMM machines to bottling lines, therefore a well-maintained compressor can be the difference between a productive business or one punctuated by costly downtime. Minor issues can quickly grow into larger, more expensive ones and so it is best to keep preventative maintenance at the top of any ‘to do’ list.
Same, same but different
Every compressor is different and so the best place to start with any maintenance plan is to read the operators manual. Not only will this ensure that you use the compressor in the correct way which can extend the life of the machine but it will also explain the frequency that each maintenance check should be carried out. More importantly, it will also help to ensure that any maintenance work incorrectly carried out will not render any warranty on the product null and void.
Different compressors also have different duty cycles and running a compressor outside its specified cycle can adversely affect the lifetime, irrespective of how well it is maintained. Read more about compressor duty cycles and their importance here.
For ongoing maintenance of your compact, portable compressor, here is our top 10 list of things to check regularly:
- Clean air intake valves for dust or particles
- Ensure air filters are regularly replaced and are kept clear of dust and particles. Damaged or non-working filters can affect the output air quality
- Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the compressor where ever it is positioned.
- Drain any air tanks regularly. This is important to prevent any moisture build up which can lead to rust and internal damage of the compressor as well as excess moisture in the compressed air output.
- Nuts, bolts and connections. If the portable air compressor is moved around on a daily basis from location to location, and in and out of the back of a van, it is wise to check all nuts, bolts and connections regularly. Although highly unlikely to loosen, it is prudent to check them regularly to prevent any potential air leaks before they happen.
- Regularly check all hoses and air lines for leaks. Leaks in the air lines can impact the productivity of downstream air tools and so it is worth carrying out a quick check every time you move your compressor.
- Check oil levels and change the air/oil separator regularly
- Ensure any oil in your compressor has been changed according to the maintenance schedule.
- Test the safety shutdown system. This is one area that is vital to check on a regular basis as you never know when it might be needed!
- Ensure the compressor is stored properly if it is not being used for extended periods. A clean and dry environment is imperative to the long life of the machine
Scheduling a few minutes of maintenance on a regular basis can pay real dividends in terms of machine uptime and therefore business productivity.
To find out more about the quiet Vert compressor range contact us at sales@vertrotors.com