The Turbo Air® 3000 Centrifugal Compressor Compressor Handbook

Maintenance
Additional Maintenance Procedures
In addition to periodic inspections and maintenance of the filter and lubrication systems, some
maintenance will also be necessary on an “as required” basis. The necessity is determined by particular
performance indicators or is performed on a periodic basis. Table 5—6 lists these procedures.
Instructions for each follow.
Other Maintenance Procedures
Procedure: When Required:
Intercoolers/aftercooler cleaning* With elevated interstage air temperatures
Oil cooler cleaning* With intercooler service — or —
With elevated oil temperature
Discharge air check valve inspection At 6 month intervals
*Indicated procedures require the use of commercial products available through the Cooper
Turbocompressor Parts and Service Department. Refer to the specific procedures and Section Seven,
Parts and Service, for more information about these products.
Table 5—6 Other Maintenance Procedures
Heat Exchangers
A decrease in heat exchanger performance is an indication that it may be necessary to clean the intercoolers,
aftercooler and/or the oil cooler.
The best indicator of the performance level of the intercoolers and aftercooler is the approach temperature.
This is defined as the difference between the temperature of the air leaving the heat exchanger
and that of the water entering the heat exchanger. Record that information for all heat exchangers
when the compressor is first installed and running at full load. When an approach temperature increases
by 15°F - 20°F (8°C - 11°C) above the original level, or when an Alarm condition occurs as a
result of high interstage temperature, that is an indication that it is time for cleaning.
In the case of the oil cooler, however, the approach temperature cannot be used to determine a decrease
in cooling capacity. The oil cooler should be cleaned whenever the intercoolers and aftercooler
are cleaned, or when the compressor goes into an Alarm condition as a result of high oil temperature.
Other factors may also sometimes contribute to decreasing heat exchanger performance. Therefore,
before cleaning the heat exchangers:
· Be sure that they are getting the required water flow.
· Be sure that the oil and air resistive temperature detectors (RTD’s) are functioning properly.
· Be sure that the condensate drains are functioning properly.
When it becomes apparent that cleaning is necessary, keep in mind that separate techniques are
utilized for different parts of the heat exchangers:
5—17