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The Shop Article

   

The Shop

Updated: July 8th, 2008 05:26 PM GMT-05:00

Effective Maintenance

By Asphalt Contractor Staff

Asphalt Contractor, June 2004

Problem: Air pressure at compressor discharge is too low.

Solution: Check valves and repair/ replace as necessary. Verify that the air pressure switch has been set and that control adjustment is according to manufacturer's recommendations. Check inlet filter and separator element for contamination.

Problem: Air pressure at the point of use is too low.

Solution: Check for correct pressure setting on compressor discharge. Adjust if necessary. Check the amount of pressure drop across dryer, filters and piping systems. Compressed air demand may be exceeding current capacity — evaluate system to determine if more compressor capacity is required. Check for airline leaks and inappropriate use first.

Problem: Filter service life is too short.

Solution: Use only genuine OEM parts. Generic filters may not meet performance criteria such as micron rating, contamination capacity and pressure drop. In high dust environments, consider using special prefilters, alternate location or duct inlet and cooling air from clean location.

Problem: Water in air lines.

Solution: Check condensate drains and compressed air dryer for proper operation — clean, repair or replace/upgrade as needed.

Problem: Lubricant in air lines.

Solution: Check air/lubricant separation system; change separator element. Follow manufacturer's recommendations for proper lubricant level to avoid over filling.

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