Air Compressor Operating Procedures

I. Pre-Startup Preparations

Before starting the air compressor, operators must perform a thorough inspection to ensure that the equipment is in a safe and operational condition.

• Oil level checkConfirm that the lubricating oil level is within the normal range and that the oil shows no signs of emulsification or degradation.
• Piping and Valves: Check that all connecting pipelines are securely fastened and that the exhaust valves are in the correct open or closed position.
• Cooling systemFor water-cooled equipment, verify that the cooling water circulation is unobstructed and that the water pressure is within the specified range; for air-cooled equipment, ensure that the heat dissipation passages are free of blockages.
• Electrical SystemCheck whether the power supply voltage is stable, whether the grounding wire is securely connected, and whether all indicator lights on the control panel are functioning properly.

II. Startup Procedure

After confirming that all preparatory work is correct, proceed with the startup operations strictly in the following sequence.

• Connect the power supply.: Close the main power switch and check whether the control panel display is functioning properly and whether any fault alarms are present.
• Jog testUpon initial startup or after a prolonged shutdown, it is recommended to first perform a jog operation to verify that the motor is rotating in the correct direction.
• Officially launchedPress the start button to bring the equipment into operation. Monitor the starting current to ensure it returns to the normal range within an acceptable time frame.
• Load and runAfter the equipment has reached stable operation, slowly open the vent valve to bring the equipment into the loaded gas-generation mode.

III. In-Service Monitoring and Inspections

During equipment operation, operators must conduct regular inspections to promptly identify and eliminate potential hazards.

• Parameter MonitoringClosely monitor key parameters such as discharge pressure, discharge temperature, and oil pressure to ensure they remain within the equipment’s specified rated ranges.
• Status monitoringPay close attention to the operating sounds of the host, motor, and cooling fan; if any abnormal vibration or friction noise is detected, troubleshoot immediately.
• Leak inspectionInspect the equipment and its surroundings for any signs of oil, water, or gas leaks.
• Environmental preservationEnsure that the compressor room is well-ventilated and that the ambient temperature does not exceed the equipment’s maximum allowable limit.

4. Normal Shutdown and Emergency Shutdown

Based on production requirements and equipment operating conditions, perform shutdown procedures correctly.

• Normal shutdownFirst, press the unload button to run the equipment under no load for several minutes to dissipate heat, then press the stop button, and finally disconnect the main power supply and close the exhaust valve.
• Emergency shutdownWhen the equipment exhibits critical conditions such as excessive exhaust temperature or pressure, severe oil or gas leakage, abnormally intense vibration, or a burning odor, immediately press the emergency stop button, disconnect the main power supply, and report the issue to maintenance.

V. Daily Maintenance and Care

Proper daily maintenance is the foundation for ensuring the efficient and stable operation of air compressors.

• Regular blowdown: Regularly drain the condensate from the bottom of the gas storage tank and oil–gas separator to prevent moisture from entering the pipeline network.
• Surface cleaning: Keep the equipment surface and its surrounding environment clean, and regularly remove dust and oil contamination from the cooler’s surface.
• Consumable replacement: Strictly adhere to the maintenance intervals specified in the equipment manual, and regularly replace the air filter element, oil filter element, oil–gas separator element, and dedicated lubricating oil.