Getting compressed air systems up and running safely and efficiently after a shutdown period


After a shutdown period such as Christmas, those needing to restart their compressed air systems will need to check them thoroughly if they’ve been idle for a long period.

Here is our step by step guide to rebooting your compressed air system. Please note, these checks should only be carried out by qualified personnel.


16 Steps to rebooting your compressed air system


Step 1: Turn power off

1. Make sure you have switched off the power supply. Inspecting a compressed air system when the power is on is extremely dangerous.


Step 2: Visual Checks

2. Carry out a visual check of the electrical connections for any signs of damage.


Remove the compressor panels

3. Remove the compressor’s panels


Step 4: Visual Checks

4. Carefully view all aspects of the compressor for signs of damage.


Step 5: Ensure all drive belts are in place5. Ensure all drive belts are in place, with sufficient tension and no sign of wear.


Step 6: Check oil

6. Check if the compressor has enough oil, and that the oil is not dirty or discoloured. If it needs topping up or replacing, refer to the manual for instructions.


Step 7: Check for leaks

7. Inspect the inside and outside of the compressor for oil or water leaks.


Step 8: Drain

8. If your system is fitted with either manual or auto drains, open and check them to drain, or ensure they have drained correctly.


Step 9: Check there are no contaminants blocking the inlet/outlet

 

9. Make sure there are no contaminants, such as dust or grime, blocking either the inlet or outlet grills.


Step 10: Carry out an insulation test on motors

 

10. It is advisable to carry out an insulation test on motors for higher powered systems in warm climates, as moisture that may have collected could cause a short circuit on start-up.


Step 11: Check that the motor and air end pulleys are rotating smoothly.

 

11. Look at the air end casing to see which direction the motor and air end pulleys should turn, then check that they are rotating smoothly.


Step 12: Ensure ball valves are correctly configured

12. Ensure ball valves are correctly configured.


Step 13: Replace the side panels

13. Replace the side panels.


Step 14: Compressed Air System

 

14. At this point you should carry out a final walk round of the system. Check pipework for any potential danger, paying special attention to connections. Inspect the outlet couplings, oil and water separators and filters, and all point of use equipment such as impact wrenches, blowguns, etc - repair and replace where necessary.


Step 15: Switch on power supply

15. If you are satisfied it is safe to do so, turn the power supply back on.


Step 16: Restart your compressed air system

16. Restart your compressed air system. Please note, if you have a water-cooled compressor, you should turn on the cooling water and air blast system on start-up. VSD (Variable Speed Drive) compressors should be left for an hour after the power is back on before being restarted.

 

These checks should be carried out following any extended length of time during which a compressed air system has been dormant. Providing these are done thoroughly, with any required maintenance completed, your unit should resume operation at optimum performance with no issues.

 

 

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