Compressor: How to Commission Reciprocating Air Compressor at Own

Actually, a newly purchased Air Compressor must be commissioned under the supervision of a product engineer. But in some cases, it’s impossible for engineering companies to wait for a long time for commissioning engineers.

In this situation, you can refer below-mentioned steps for proper installation and commissioning of a reciprocating air compressor.

The procedure mentioned in this article will apply to all reciprocating air compressors of any make. Especially, Chicago Pneumatic, Ingersoll Rand, Atlas Copco, Kirloskar Pneumatic, etc.

An Air compressor is the most affordable utility when it works fine. It all depends upon the commissioning and start-up.

Reciprocating Air Compressor commissioning

I visited many engineering firms as a field service engineer during my engineering career. What shocking to me is that, maintenance engineers even doesn’t know How to start and Stop Air Compressors Proper way.

Always start and stop the air compressor in unload condition. If you follow this one simple tip, you will get a good life of this important utility.

Before you start commissioning just read the below article for pre-commissioning checks,

Commissioning: Precautions to Take Before Compressors Commissioning

Procedure to follow for the commissioning of the new reciprocating air compressor

01) Be certain leveling screws in the frame base have been backed off, and foundation bolts are tightened properly

02) Clean off all accumulated dirt from an exterior of a compressor and electric motor

03) Remove covers, tapes, and wrapping from openings that had been blanked and sealed

04) Open the frame top cover and check all connecting rods, bolts, etc. to see that they are correctly installed and tightened. Check the crankshaft end float

05) Check and clean thoroughly the inside of the frame. Use cloth for cleaning inside. Never use cotton waste on internal parts

06) Remove silica gel bags if placed in valve ports, do not wipe any carbon and Teflon powder from valve or cylinder

07) Fill the frame (Oil Sump) with the correct grade of oil up to the required level. (Middle of the visual screw)

08) Rotate the compressor manually, in direction of rotation and check bearing lubrication as well as the free-running of a crankshaft

09) Fill oil in force-feed lubricator, disconnect oil line near to cylinder, and rotate handle. Check oil is coming at the end of the lubricating pipe. Reconnect the oil line and operate the pump for at least 20-25 turns

10) Check each compressor piston rod to be certain it is smooth and rust-free, especially for the section where the piston rod is passing through packing and wiper rings

11) Check the bumping clearance as per recommended

12) Replace the frame inspection cover on the compressor

13) Check the air cleaner and suction lines for dirt and clean, if required

14) Check all electrical connections for correct tightness

15) Check the insulation resistance with a meager. If any moisture or dirt in the winding is indicated remove it immediately

16) Remove safety devices and start the motor without v-belts. Check the incoming voltage and current drawn by the motor. Check electric motor for abnormal noise and vibrations.

  • Final Commissioning of Air Compressor

17) When satisfied with an electric motor, fit v-belts, align motor, and adjust belts tension as required

18) Check strainer/air filter before unloader and ensure pressure sensing airline is clean and free from rust, dust, etc.

19) Remove all suction and discharge valves and start the motor. Check oil pressure unusual noise, vibration, and safety tripping

20) Shut down the compressor; check all parts for unusual heating. Install all suction and discharge valves

21) Restart the compressor and continue to run until the unit has warmed. Check various temperature and pressure gauges for proper operations

22) When found everything is in order put the compressor air discharge net to supply compressed air for plant utilities

Follow all the above instructions while commissioning every new or overhauled reciprocating air compressor. I have tried to cover as many as possible points.

Besides this information, you are suggested to read something more from below engineering books

So, here you find the Best Engineering Resources for further details

To get the more details about the topic, I further recommended reading

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