What safety precautions should be observed when operating an air compressor? Risks associated with startup, operation, maintenance, and the air receiver tank.

I. Pre-Startup Safety Inspection

Before starting the air compressor, a thorough inspection must be carried out to ensure that the equipment is in safe and ready-to-operate condition.

• Check the lubrication system:Confirm that the lubricant level is within the normal range and that the oil is clean and free from degradation.
• Check the cooling system:For water-cooled equipment, ensure that the cooling water supply is unobstructed and that the water pressure and temperature meet the specified requirements.
• Check valve status:Ensure the exhaust valve is open to prevent starting under load.
• Clean up the surrounding environment:Remove flammable and explosive materials and debris from the vicinity of the equipment, and ensure adequate ventilation.

II. Real-Time Monitoring During Operation

During equipment operation, operators must closely monitor all operating parameters and promptly identify and address any abnormalities.

• Monitoring pressure and temperature:Strictly monitor exhaust pressure and the exhaust temperatures at each stage, and strictly prohibit operation under overpressure or overheating conditions.
• Listening to equipment sounds:Pay attention to whether there are any unusual knocking or rubbing noises inside the compressor.
• Check for leaks:Inspect pipelines, fittings, and valves; if gas or liquid leakage is detected, immediately shut down the equipment and address the issue.
• Monitor motor current:Ensure that the motor’s operating current remains within its rated range to prevent overload.

III. Shutdown and Standardized Maintenance

Proper shutdown and maintenance procedures are critical to ensuring personnel safety and extending equipment life.

• Standardize the shutdown procedure:First, remove the load and close the inlet valve. After the equipment has come to a normal stop, disconnect the power supply.
• Complete pressure relief:Before maintenance, the compressed air in the system must be completely drained, and the pressure gauge must be confirmed to read zero.
• Power-Off Tagging:Hang a “Do Not Close” warning sign at the power switch and assign a dedicated supervisor.
• Regular maintenance and servicing:Regularly replace the lubricating oil and filter elements, and clean the cooler in accordance with the equipment manual.

IV. Risks and Mitigation Measures for Gas Storage Tanks

Gas storage tanks are classified as special equipment and pose potential risks such as overpressure-induced explosions, thus requiring stringent management.

• Safety accessory verification:Ensure that safety valves and pressure gauges are sensitive and reliable, and have their accuracy verified and lead seals applied on a regular basis.
• Regularly drain condensate:Open the drain valve daily or at regular intervals to remove accumulated condensate and oil sludge from the tank, thereby preventing internal corrosion.
• Overpressure operation is strictly prohibited:Set the correct pressure limit, and strictly prohibit any unauthorized adjustment of the safety valve’s set pressure.
• Regular inspection of the tank:In accordance with relevant national regulations on special equipment, gas storage tanks shall undergo regular internal and external visual inspections and thickness measurements. Any severe corrosion or deformation detected shall result in immediate shutdown and remediation.