Checklist for proper maintenance of rotary screw air compressors

Every maintenance manager knows that rotary screw air compressors contain two intermeshing helical rotors rotating in opposite directions inside their housing. Throughout the compressor, the ambient air is filled and circulated through the intention valve where the air is trapped between the two helical rotors. As the screws rotate, the pressure begins to increase as the volume of air is reduced.

The key point, beyond the type of compressor it is, is that, like any compressor, Rotary screw air compressors require regular maintenance. The great part about maintaining a rotary air compressor is that it is easy. By performing maintenance, your unit will be more productive for a longer period of time, not to mention the time and money you will save on emergency repairs.

To ensure that you are following the correct maintenance schedule, we have provided the following checklist for the correct maintenance of rotary screw air compressors to make your maintenance procedure as simple as possible.

Daily maintenance of rotary screw air compressors

• Monitors all gauges and indicators for normal operation.
• Check the oil level.
• Drainage control line filter.
• Look for oil leaks.
• Listen and feel for any unusual noises or vibrations.

Weekly maintenance of a rotary screw air compressor

• Check the operation of the safety valve.
• Drain any air receivers in the system.
• Drain the water from the oil.
• Check that the moisture separator is draining properly.

Monthly maintenance of a rotary screw air compressor

• Maintain the air filter as necessary (if dirt accumulates on the filters frequently, change them daily or weekly).
• Clean aftercooler and oil cooler fins (air-cooled only).
• Clean the entire unit.

Quarterly maintenance of a rotary screw air compressor

• Obtain samples of synthetic oil.
• Replace the compressor oil filter.
• Change the oil.
• Check the unit and verify that all bolts are tight.
• Check the full load amps.
• Check all pressure settings.

Annual maintenance of rotary screw air compressors

• Change the oil separator every 2 to 4 years with synthetic oil.
• Change the air filter.
• Lubricating engines.
• Check the safety shutdown system.
• Contact a qualified service technician.

Remember that two counter-rotating screws drive rotary screw air compressors. They are usually quieter and more efficient than their piston counterparts. Rotary air compressors are designed for continuous use, more than 8 hours per day, and are used when large volumes of high-pressure air are needed. They also have a long service life, which makes rotary screw air compressors a great long-term investment. There is minimal wear because there is no metal-to-metal contact. Finally, maintenance of these systems is relatively simple.

If you are interested in following this checklist for the correct maintenance of rotary screw air compressors, we invite you to check out the checklist for in-depth maintenance of centrifugal pumpsas well as to subscribe to our Newslettera newsletter that provides you with technical content about the best technological solutions for industrial plants, focused on automation and maintenance.