Page 387 - Reciprocating Compressors Operation Maintenance

372 Reciprocating Compressors: Operation and Maintenance

PISTON SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Pistons are vented in order to relieve any gas pressure that may have
built up inside the piston. Gas can be forced into the piston rod clearance.
Venting is accomplished through 1/16" vent holes at the bottom of the
piston ring grooves.
Warning!! All hollow pistons may become pressurized during opera-
tion. To be sure that all the pressure is relieved before piston and rod are
disassembled, carefully loosen piston nut and wait. Do not remove com-
pletely !!

BLOCK FLYWHEEL

The flywheel should be locked in place when the engine or compres-
sor is opened to prevent injury to personnel who must put their hands and
arms inside the compressor cylinder. The guard should be on the fly-
wheel while the machine is in service to prevent personnel or equipment
from contacting the wheel.
DRAIN WATER

Water should be drained from the compressor cylinder jacket when
servicing the cylinder end. If the water is drained from the engine radia-
tor during a compressor shutdown because of repair work, fill the radia-
tor as soon as repairs are completed. If it isn't, the deposits inside the
radiator will dry. Then, when the engine is put back into service, deposits
will circulate through the system. A filter ahead of the water pump will
catch those materials. Outwardly the water pump will appear to be doing
its job, but its filter could be nearly plugged off, resulting in a low circu-
lation rate and a hot engine or compressor.

PREVENT GAS LEAKAGE

A means of preventing gas from leaking into the compressor during
overhaul is necessary. Any gas trapped inside the compressor may leak
into the room when the equipment is opened up.
When opening up the compressor part of the machine, pancake/skillet
blinds should be placed between flanges or a blind flange installed on
existing piping. Those positive shutoffs are easier said than done at most