Frequently Asked Questions

1. Top 10 Air System Mistakes
2. Cookie cutter approach to oil and filter changes

Cookie cutter approach to oil and filter changes

A preventive maintenance program is essential for maximizing the service life of a compressor. The key is to make sure your program matches your application. This means monitoring filter and lubricant condition by measuring pressure drop and by using a regular oil analysis. This will help you create a schedule for change intervals that will provide the best protection for your compressor.

1. The best way to determine when to change your inlet air filters is to measure the restriction in the piping between the filter and the intake of the compressor. This restriction can be monitored by a water manometer, an intake filter indicator, or a dial gauge that is calibrated in inches of water. The idea is to service the filter when the monitor reaches a certain level of restriction. This specification can vary between 10 and 20 inches of water because of the different designs of filters. We recommend that you get a guideline from a filter vendor that is knowledgeable about compressors.
2. Oil analysis can be a helpful tool for compressor diagnostics. Quarterly samples of the oil appear to be more than adequate to keep an eye on normal wear. There are many good labs available for oil analysis.