Air Starting System

Question 1

What are three maintenance procedures for main starting air compressors?

Answer 1

1. Regular replacement of air suction filter
2. Clean air cooler
3. Overhaul valves as per running hours

Question 2

What is the procedure for manual starting of a compressor?

Answer 2

1. Ensure that there is sufficient oil within the sump
2. Ensure that cooling water is open
3. Ensure stage drains and discharge valves are open
4. Press start
5. Check running amps
6. Once up to speed, close all stage drains and de-loading valve
7. Check pressure build up in air bottles

Question 3

How can deterioration in the efficiency of a compressor be detected?

Answer 3

1. Increased running time when filling bottles
2. Abnormal differential between suction and discharge pressures
3. Low pressure at outlet
4. High running amps
5. High air outlet temperature
6. Cooling water temperature increase
7. Oil consumption increase

Question 4

What are four causes for deterioration in efficiency?

Answer 4

1. Worn or damaged suction and discharge valves
2. Soiled air intake filters
3. Damaged piston rings and barrel
4. Dirty coolers

Question 5

What is a test for establishing compressor performance?

Answer 5

1. Measure the time taken to fill a reservoir and compare this against another compressor (25 bar)
2. Mathematically work using manufacturer’s data, using this theoretical value as a benchmark
3. If one compressor takes longer, it could indicate it is less efficient