Its widely accepted that marine air compressors, particularly starting air
compressors, require strict maintenance schedules in order to perform at peak
efficiency. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most commonly found problems,
and their likely causes.
Low capacity:
This is probably the most common problem encountered on all type of vessel.
Compressor capacity can be reduced after extended duty cycles and it is ultimately
unable to keep up with the air demand. Reasons include:
- Leakage in discharge and suction valves. Best practice is to change the valve springs or spring plates as a complete set.
- Fault in the magnetic unloader – Condensate carried forwards can mix with lube oil resulting in an emulsion that can choke the drains.
- Leakage from the relief valve.
- Scaling on after coolers can raise the air temperature, reducing capacity.
Oil in the air supply:
If the compressed air is carrying oil, it’s usually down to one of the following culprits:
- The oil-water separator is faulty, and oil is being carried to the air receiver.
- Lubrication in the cylinder is excessive, causing a carryover of oil within the air.
- The auto drain is malfunctioning.
Discharge air is overheated
If the temperature of the discharged air is excessive, the overheating can be caused by:
- Blocked or dirty intercooler tube
- Damage to the head gasket.
- Blocked air filter
- First or second stage valves leaking.
Oil in the Crankcase
Rubber piston rings can become brittle and cracked, causing air to leak into the sump, becoming condensed and emulsified. This accumulation of milky oil in the crankcase can be because of:
- Leakage from the cylinder liner or jacket
- Oil running hours past recommended tolerance.
Excessive noise and vibration:
When the compressor becomes excessively noisy and vibrations increase, it can be down to the following reasons:
- Loose pulley, flywheel, belt, belt guard, or clamps.
- Friction caused by lack of oil in the crankcase.
- Piston hitting the valve plate because of reduced clearance volume.
In all these cases, MPCC can supply 100% quality checked components with a no-quibble 12-month warranty. Maintenance spares shouldn’t cost the earth; just be available around the globe
