Page 334 - Reciprocating Compressors Operation Maintenance

Troubleshooting Compressor Problems 319

TABLE 5-2
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Trouble Probable Cause(s) Remedies
Compressor Will 1 . Power supply failure 1. Correct voltage or power supply
Not Start 2, Switchgear or starting 2. Check curcuitry, interlocks,
panel relays, etc.
3. Low oil pressure shut- 3a. Check switch setting
down switch b. Install momentary bypass switch
on direct gear driven oil pumps
4. Control panel 4. Check connections and settings
of all devices

Motor Will Not 1 . Low voltage 1 . Correct voltage supply
Synchronize 2. Excessive starting torque 2. Unload compressor during starting
3. Incorrect power factor 3. Adjust excitor field rheostat
4. Excitation voltage failure 4. Check field excitation system
Low Oil Pressure 1. Oil pump failure I . Check oil pumps/power supply
2. Oil foaming from counter- 2. Reduce oil level
weights striking oil surface
3. Cold oil 3. Use frame oil heater and/or steam
trace exterior piping
4. Dirty oil filter 4. Clean/replace oil filter cartridge
5. Interior frame oil leaks 5. Check oil piping
6. Excessive leakage at 6. Set shim tabs and bearing
bearing shim tabs and/or clearances
bearings
7. Improper low oil pressure 7. Reset
switch setting
8. Low gear oil pump by- 8. Reset valve
pass/relief valve setting
9. Defective pressure gauge 9. Replace gauge
10. Plugged oil sump strainer 10. Clean strainer
1 1. Defective oil relief valve 1 1 . Repair or replace valve

Relief Valve 1. Faulty relief valve 1 . Test and reset
Popping 2. Leaking suction valves or 2. Repair/replace defective parts
rings on next higher stage
3. Obstruction (foreign 3. Relieve obstruction
material, rags), blind or valve
closed in discharge line

(table continued on next page)