- Keep the oil cooler free from leaks (sincepressure on the water side exceeds that of the oil) toprevent oil contamination and emulsification.- Properly adjust the lubricator for the specifiedquantity of oil feed.COOLING SYSTEMProper care of a compressor cooling systemincludes the following inspections and maintenanceprocedures:- Periodically inspect the intercoolers andaftercoolers.- Remove collections of gummy oils or tarrysubstances from the cooler tubes by washing tube nestswith a suitable solvent and drying them thoroughlybefore reassembling.- Correct any leakage in tube nests to preventleaks of water into the compressor while secured orleaks of air into the water side during operation.- Inspect and clean the cylinder water jacketsperiodically with a cleaning nozzle.When filling the cooling water system after thecompressor has been drained, open the water inletslightly to allow the water to rise slowly in the coolershells and water jackets. Vent valves fitted to the waterspaces should be opened to permit entrapped air toescape and to remove any air pockets.CONTROL DEVICESBecause of the great variety of regulating andunloading devices used on compressors, you will haveto consult the manufacturer’s technical manual forinformation regarding the adjustment of these deviceson particular compressors.If a control valve fails to work properly, it should betaken apart and cleaned Some valves are fitted with afilter filled with a sponge or woolen yarn to preventparticles of dust or grit from being carried into the valvechamber. These filters remove gummy deposits from theoil used in the compressor cylinders. When repacking,use only genuine wool. Cotton will pack and stop theairflow. Relief valves are very important for safecompressor operation. They should be set as specifiedby the manufacturer and lift-tested by hand each timethe compressor is placed in operation. To check thesetting periodically, test by raising the pressure in thespaces to which they are attached.SUMMARYSince an Engineman may encounter so many typesof compressed air systems, air dryers, and aircompressors both ashore and aboard Navy vessels, thischapter presented only general procedures and facts. Tomaintain, repair, and overhaul specific compressed airsystems, air dryers, or reciprocating air compressors,you must refer to the manufacturer’s technical manuals.A definite preventive maintenance schedule withfrequency and assignment of responsibility is required.You should have the manufacturer’s manual handy toestablish minimum requirements and to follow itsrecommendations for maintenance.6-10
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