High temperatures in summer might be responsible for breakdown of your compressor. By making adjustments on your compressor room this can be avoided. The weather influences a lot of things and also your compressor(s) and compressed air dryer(s). Temperature plays an important role in the correct functioning of your compressor. ALUP gives you some tips to control the temperature in your compressor room, and to prevent unnecessary breakdowns.
A few facts about the temperature in compressor rooms: - A standard compressor is designed for a ambient temperature between 5 ⁰C (41° F) and 40 ⁰C (104° F). Some ALUP compressors are designed to function up to 46 ⁰C (115° F). - A compressor room can easily be 15°C (60° F) higher than the outside ambient temperature due to the produced heat by a compressor. A decrease of 3°C (37° F) at the inlet air, yields a 1% energy reduction. - The lifespan of the compressor is reduced severely by higher operating temperatures, because the internal thermal loads on critical parts are higher.
The temperature of the compressor room is mainly influenced by the next criteria: I. The amount of fresh - airflow through the compressor room (ventilation) II. Release of heat from the compressor and compressed air appendages, such as airdryers and air network components III. Heated coolingair that is blown out by the compressor (when there are no ventilation shafts foreseen)
To avoid temperature problems in summer, you can make sure to - Have a well-functioning ventilation in the compressor room. Especially ventilation shafts can be clogged with dust and dirt. Make sure to clean them regularly. - Measure the compressor room temperature regularly, to make sure it is below 40 ⁰C (104° F). - Make sure your compressor’s oil / coolant levels are according manual’s instructions - Clean all open heat-exchangers on the compressor-unit and the dryer from dust and dirt (see manual) - Plan maintenance at the start of summer, to make sure the compressor is in optimal conditions for the warm season