Page 389 - Reciprocating Compressors Operation Maintenance

374 Reciprocating Compressors: Operation and Maintenance

cedures, assure that any measuring instruments (feeler gauges, microme-
ters, vernier calipers, etc. are calibrated and in good condition. One
wrong reading can result in severe problems.
CAUTION!! Never use kerosene or gasoline in a compressor cylinder
for cleaning purposes. This highly dangerous practice can easily lead to
explosions.

HOUSEKEEPING

Spilled oil is a common problem around many compressors. It can be
found as you walk (or slip) in the doorway, on the floor around the com-
pressor-engine block and on the working platform at the compressor.
Some oil stems from overflow at lubricators and drainage from hoses
attached to portable lube-oil barrel pumps.
Oil and grease should be wiped up immediately to prevent operator
hazards, especially on smooth compressor floors.

LUBRICATORS

Check the lubricator to be certain all lubricator cylinders are filled and
are pumping oil. Check also for cracked lubricators. Most lube-oil sys-
tems have rupture discs that relieve when the oil pressure becomes high
due to flow stoppage. The release of system pressure causes a no-flow
condition and a shutdown.

VIBRATION

Observe forces that influence compressor operation. Forces in the
machine go in many directions. These can cause damaging vibration plus
excessive deflection of parts of the equipment. For that reason, grout is
added between the compressor and its foundation.
Oil, vibration, and heavy stress loading frequently cause grout to fail
or break up. Epoxy grouts are popular, having replaced cement grouts
both at the initial setting of the machinery and when there is no recourse
but to regrout. Be certain grout is in good condition.
Foundation bolts should be in place with nuts tight.