Ingersoll Rand Rotary Screw Air Compressor (2023)

FAQs

How do you troubleshoot a screw compressor? ›

Rotary screw compressors are best for continuous use, but generally aren't capable of delivering pressures above 210 PSIG. Reciprocating/piston compressors, on the other hand, can operate at working pressures of 500 PSIG and higher, but are designed for intermittent use only.

The hardest obstacle found in a screw compressor is the damage in the main motor that can cause a decrease in screw rotation so that it can reduce the amount of compressed air. In addition, screw damage caused by the poor quality of fluid can decrease the efficiency of the screw compressor.

In a single-stage compressor operating at 100 PSIG at sea level, the compression ratio is 7.9 to 1 (in absolute terms). But a two-stage compressor operating at the same pressure will have a compression ratio of 2.8 to 1 in each stage (2.8 is the square root of 7.9).

Leaks are a common reason for lost pressure in air compressors. So, if your compressor isn't building pressure, check the air tank for leaks. If you find one, the tank will need to be replaced.

Rotary screw compressors, as mentioned earlier, are designed to run continuously and have much higher CFM ratings than a reciprocating compressor, typically around 4-5cfm per horsepower.

Rotate the screw counterclockwise to make the compressor motor turn on at a lower pressure. Turn the screw clockwise to make the motor turn on at a higher pressure. Always refer to your compressor's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended cut-in pressure.

Net oil pressures usually range from 20 to 40 psi and vary from compressor to compressor. Most oil pressure safety controllers will shut down the compressor if the net oil pressure falls below 10 psi.

On the other hand, rotary screw compressors have an average lifespan of between 35,000 and 40,000 hours. They run at high speeds and tend to be very loud, so they should be kept in a dedicated compressor room when in use.

How long do rotary screw air compressors last? ›

A rotary screw compressor can last between 60,000 – 80,000 hours before a rebuild is necessary—about 6-8 times as long as a reciprocating air compressor.

Aside from lack of electrical power, air compressors can also fail if it lacks sufficient air pressure in relation to the cut-in pressure. If this happens, check the cut-in pressure settings and adjust them accordingly. It may also be because of the lack of oil.

There are two types of rotary screw compressors. These include oil-injected rotary screw compressors and and oil-free rotary screw compressors.

Rotary Screw Air Compressors are best suited to run at pressures under 150 psi. This makes them ideal for standard plant industry applications. They are dependable and have long lifecycles, making them a more cost effective option for many medical and industrial facilities.

Electrical problems – Compressor failure can also occur due to a series of electrical problems, such as voltage unbalance, current unbalance, phase loss, and too low or too high voltages.

Compressor fails to start

Before starting, simply check the power button and switch. Breakers should also be checked if necessary. Aside from lack of electrical power, air compressors can also fail if it lacks sufficient air pressure in relation to the cut-in pressure.

Rotary screw compressor repair is vital.

We handle all components of these compressors from rings and valves to controls and belts to routine maintenance. Repairing a worn-out rotary screw compressor is a cost-effective and smart alternative to buying a new model.

Compressor Overheating

High voltages can also damage the motor causing the compressor to overheat. Moreover, dirty coils, low refrigerant levels, and lack of insulation; all can contribute to compressor overheating, ultimately resulting in compressor failure.