Operation and maintenance of reciprocating compressors

This chapter examines the operation and maintenance of reciprocating compressors. Dirt and air are the two primary factors involved in most lube systems failures. The lubrication system is a hydraulic system, and like any other system of this type, dirt in the oil can cause serious damage to lubrication system components. The final, and certainly an important part of a lubrication system, is the terminal check valve. It must hold against back pressure, preventing backflow of gas or air in the oil line during shutdown. If it does not, gas can work back into tubing and cause air-lock problems. Therefore, a check valve must be located at the end of every oil line. Obviously, compressor parts must be made of metals that will resist corrosion by whatever gas is handled. It is the effect of an active gas on the lubricant that is of interest. The frequency of changing crankcase oils depends largely on the cleanliness of the atmosphere surrounding the compressor. The used oil should be drained while still warm, and the crankcase should be wiped clean with lint-free rags before introducing new oil.