A Reciprocating Air Compressor is an air compressor which sucks and compresses the air with the help of a piston pushed by a crankshaft. The air is first sucked into a cylinder and then compressed by decreasing the area and increasing the pressure in the cylinder. The reciprocating motion is done by the piston to decrease the area and increase the pressure. The crankshaft is responsible for transferring the rotational motion to the piston. It is directly linked to the electric motor. There are many different types of reciprocating air compressors such as single acting, double acting, single-stage air compressor, and double stage air compressor. While the basic mechanism is the same for every compressor, there is a slight difference when it comes to compression of air in these compressors.
Solved Problems On Reciprocating Air Compressor
Like every other compressor, when you overuse it, the components and parts start breaking down and the compressor fails to work efficiently. Many people have been stuck with common problems such as:
1. The compressor isn’t making any sound
If you switch on your compressor, and cannot hear any click or sound, then the problem most likely lies with the electric board. Make sure you check the power supply and double-check for fuses. Recheck the setting of the pressure switch and the electrical connections on it. Change the pressure in the tank with the help of the lever. Pushing the lever operates the pressure switch and leads the compressor to start working. Check the safety switches for high temperatures and low oil levels as this will stop the compressor from functioning.
2. The compressor is making a lot of noise
In case the compressor is making unusual sounds and a lot of noise, make sure to check for loose connections, screws, belts, and bolts. Check the oil level as well if the compressor makes sounds at a certain level. Check the valves and piston rings as well. Tighten up any loose parts and connections.
3. Oil leaks and oil found in compressed air
The oil levels should be at a certain level. If the oil levels are found low, then check where the oil is leaking from. Either it’s leaking or it’s ending up in the compressed air. This can be caused by high oil levels as the oil carryover will stop once a normal oil level is reached. High-temperature results in more oil carryover. Recheck the cylinder and piston rings for any sort of damage and wrong installment.
4. Not enough pressure being built
If the compressor fails to build up pressure then check the valves first. If they are broken or dirty, then replace them. If the air isn’t pumped to its full capacity, then check for leaks. Double-check the gasket, valves, and the air filter as well. Replace these components if the pressure fails to reach the cut-out pressure set by the compressor. Make sure you recheck the cut-out pressure as well and ensure it isn’t very high.
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