What to consider when planning your compressor installation

1. Installation cleanliness
   The level of cleanliness for many compressed air systems leaves a lot to be desired. Above all, cleanliness means protecting the equipment from exposure to dust. If care is not taken the compressor intake filters will quickly clog up, which not only increases maintenance requirements and reduces performance, but it can also adversely affect air cooling.
   The result could be; costly downtimes due to overheating, decreased dryer power, and as a result condensate accumulation. This in turn can cause serious damage to air-using equipment and can negatively impact product quality.
   If dust exposure cannot be avoided by finding a dust-free installation location, then a bag filter should be used to clean the intake air.
   
   
2. Moderate temperatures
   Firstly, the compressed air system should not be exposed to sub-zero temperatures, as this leads to the production and distribution of moist compressed air before it reaches the air-using equipment. In the event of frost, the condensation in the lines would freeze resulting in operational disruptions. In addition it is worth considering that the lubrication performance of the oils and bearing lubricants used in compressed air systems are significantly reduced at temperatures below +5^oC. Needless to say, this can also lead to system failures. However during the summer months, as 100% of the electrical energy used to power the compressor is converted into heat, it is important to ensure - as far as possible - that the compressor room does not exceed the ambient temperature. Otherwise, motors and electrical components are liable to overheat and the dryer may become overloaded due to insufficient re-cooling. Once again, this leads to condensate accumulation and degraded performance of air-consuming equipment. In the worst case scenario, insufficient ventilation can result in a build-up of heat, which causes  all compressor and dryer equipment to shut-down and the compressed air supply system to completely fail.
   All of these issues can be avoided simply by maintaining a moderate temperature in the compressor room. This can be guaranteed year-round via cooling systems which automatically regulate the heat balance in the compressor station via thermostatically controlled ventilation.
   
   
3. Service-friendliness
   Although modern compressors and compressed air treatment components require significantly less maintenance than older equipment, they are not completely maintenance-free. Therefore, the systems must be installed in such a way as to ensure easy, reliable access to all service relevant areas. 

Optimum compressed air system reliability and performance can only be achieved if all three of the above compressor installation factors are observed. 

More reading
For further information click here to download a complimentary copy of the KAESER guidebook 'Compressed Air Engineering; Basic Principles, tips and suggestions'

Can we help you design, plan and install you compressed air system? Just phone 0800 447 820 or fill in the form below and we will contact you.