Rotary Screw Air Compressor Maintenance

Rotary screw compressors are complex machines that will operate better, more energy efficient, and last longer if they're well maintained. With many moving components that are exposed to various environmental and operating conditions, rotary screw air compressors of all types and models should be checked and serviced regularly.

Fortunately, when you choose to work with C.H. Reed, you get the support and maintenance service you need to always maximize the up-time of your industrial equipment. Since we’ve been in the business of supplying excellence to our customers for over 75+ years, we know how to offer just the right combination of sales, service options, rental options, installation and planned maintenance to improve the life expectancy of rotary screw air compressors.

For those in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, Michigan, New York state, and the general Mid-Atlantic region, we offer local sales and service from our centralized branch locations:

• Erie, PA
• Hanover, PA
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Milton, PA
• Cleveland, OH
• Toledo, OH

The Importance of Rotary Screw Air Compressor Maintenance

From fixed-speed low-pressure to variable-speed high-pressure air compressors, rotary screw models can, in general, benefit from the following maintenance checks:

• Airend inspections: The nerve center of any compressor is its airend — in the case of rotary models, it's the screw components. It’s where pressurization actually happens, so it’s a critical part of any compressor. For this reason, regular maintenance should include inspecting the airend to be sure it’s clear of dirt and debris. Note that increased noise and/or vibration levels can indicate there’s an airend issue.

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  Drivetrain inspections: Since the drivetrain on any compressor is crucial to its proper operation, it’s important to regularly inspect it to be sure it’s aligned and that all of its gears mesh properly. In addition, for any belt-driven models, be sure to check that all belts are properly adjusted and free of any signs of fraying or excessive wear. Quincy rotary screw compressor maintenance suggests that belts be checked after every 500 hours of operation.

• Motor lubrication: It’s highly advisable to keep all motor bearings properly lubricated and to replace them well before they’re worn out. This will increase the lifespan of your motor, which serves as the powerhouse of your compressor. In addition to motor lubrication, it’s also important to check that the unit always has sufficient space and access to ventilation. FS-Curtis rotary screw air compressor maintenance recommends checking oil levels daily and inspecting air inlets at least on a monthly basis.
• Lubricant checks: Without question, checking that all lubricants are clean and topped off is vital for air compressor machinery. In addition, according to Sullivan-Palatek rotary screw compressor repair and maintenance advice, it’s always important to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for scheduling rotary screw compressor fluid replacement. Of course, a good way to check on lubricants between scheduled replacements is through regular sampling.
• Filter maintenance: Probably the simplest and most cost-effective way to lengthen the life of your rotary screw compressor is through the regular changing of filters, especially air inlet filters. According to Quincy rotary screw compressor maintenance guidelines, it’s a good rule of thumb to replace air filters every 2,000 hours and fluid filters after 1,000 hours of operation.
  

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C.H. Reed, Inc. — Trusted Compressed Air Solutions

At C.H. Reed. Inc., we’ve been putting our customers’ needs first since 1948. For all of your compressed air equipment and service needs, regardless of compressor type, brand, or size, contact a service specialist by filling out the form below!