Air Compressor Equipment Operating Procedures

I. Scope of Application and Basic Requirements

This procedure applies to the operation, routine inspections, and shutdown management of air compressor equipment used at production sites. Operators must undergo training and be familiar with the equipment’s structure, control systems, safety devices, and emergency response procedures. Specific parameters, maintenance intervals, and alarm thresholds shall be determined in accordance with the equipment’s instruction manual, nameplate data, and site-specific operating procedures.

II. Pre-Startup Inspection

• Environmental Inspection:Ensure that the area around the equipment is free of debris, oil accumulation, and standing water, and that ventilation and heat‑dissipation pathways remain unobstructed.
• Oil Level Check:Check the oil level using the sight glass or oil dipstick to ensure it is within the specified range; if insufficient, replenish according to the prescribed procedure.
• Pipeline Inspection:Check that the intake, exhaust, cooling, and drain lines are securely connected and free of leaks.
• Electrical Inspection:Confirm that the power supply, control cabinet, emergency stop device, and instrument displays are all functioning normally.
• Safety Accessories:Confirm that the safety valve, pressure gauge, temperature display, and other instruments are in working order.

III. Startup and Loading Operations

• Before startup, verify that the vent valve, drain valve, or load control status meets the start-up requirements.
• First, perform a no-load start-up; once the equipment is running smoothly, gradually apply the load.
• During the loading process, monitor changes in pressure, temperature, current, and acoustic and vibrational signals.
• Upon detecting an alarm or abnormal indication, loading shall be halted and troubleshooting conducted in accordance with the prescribed procedure.

IV. Key Monitoring Points During Operation

• Pressure Monitoring:The discharge pressure shall be maintained within the system’s allowable range to prevent overpressure operation.
• Temperature Monitoring:Monitor exhaust temperature, oil temperature, and the operating status of the cooling system.
• Sound and Vibration:If unusual noises, impact sounds, or abnormal vibrations occur, promptly reduce the load or shut down the equipment for inspection.
• Leakage Observation:Regularly inspect pipeline joints, valves, coolers, and sealing areas.
• Wastewater Discharge and Drainage:Drain condensate from gas storage tanks and pipelines in accordance with the established procedures.

V. Normal Shutdown and Pressure Relief

• Before shutting down, perform a gradual shutdown to avoid stopping the machine under load.
• Stop the equipment by pressing the stop button or following the control system’s command.
• After shutdown, close the vent valve, disconnect the power supply, or operate the relevant isolation devices as required.
• Carry out maintenance, disassembly, or cleaning operations only after the pressure has been relieved.

VI. Emergency Shutdown Scenarios

If any of the following situations occur, the machine shall be stopped immediately and reported for handling:

• Pressure and temperature exceed the allowable limits and cannot be restored to normal.
• The equipment exhibits unusual noises, severe vibrations, smoking, abnormal odors, or oil and gas leaks.
• The safety valve, pressure gauge, and emergency stop device are inoperative, or the control signals are abnormal.
• Electrical components may overheat, spark, suffer insulation failure, or experience power supply abnormalities.

VII. Maintenance and Servicing Requirements

• Perform periodic inspections of components such as lubricating oil, filter elements, coolers, belts, and couplings.
• Keep the device’s surface and heat-dissipating areas clean to prevent the buildup of dust and grease.
• When replacing wear parts, the equipment must be shut down, depressurized, de-energized, and tagged for confirmation.
• Maintenance records shall be complete, including the date and time of inspection, inspection items, any abnormalities, and the outcomes of corrective actions.

VIII. Safety Precautions

• It is strictly prohibited to dismantle pipelines, valves, or gas storage components while they are under pressure.
• It is strictly prohibited to bypass, shield, or tamper with safety protection devices, or to adjust their protective parameters without authorization.
• Before servicing electrical components, disconnect the power, verify that the circuit is de-energized, and post warning signs.
• Operators, inspectors, and maintenance personnel shall wear the necessary personal protective equipment.