3.4 Operation

Under normal operation the pressure and temperatures should be as specified in Table 6.2. Minor deviations may exist for some of the values which are directly influenced by conditions at the working location.

The operation of the compressor is normally monitored by the starter installation’s automated system, which provides, for example, pressure switch monitoring of the lubricating oil pressure and thermostatic monitoring of the cooling water temperature and air temperature. However, it is recommended that the operation and automatic functions of the compressor be inspected regularly.

Under any operating conditions, condensation will precipitate from the compressed air in the HP cooler of the compressor. A water separator is integrated in the HP exhaust manifold to remove this condensation, which is drained through a solenoid valve each time the compressor is stopped. In areas of high atmospheric humidity it is recommended that the solenoid valve also be opened periodically during operation (for example two seconds of draining every ten minutes). It is not necessary to install a water separator in the pipe system between the compressor and the air tank in addition to the compressor’s integrated separator.

In areas of high atmospheric humidity, precipitation of condensed water may also occur in the LP cooler. It is important to prevent this condensation from accompanying the air flow into the high pressure cylinder, where some of the water may penetrate into the crankcase and contaminate the lubricating oil. The compressor is therefore fitted with a water separator after the low pressure cooler which effectively removes condensed water and prevents water droplets from accompanying the air flow into the HP cylinder. The water is drained automatically by a float chamber.