There are a great number of misconceptions in the air compression industry in regards to regulations, common practice guidelines and usage. To help make navigating the world of air compression clearer we have developed our FAQ’s page with our information sourced from The British Compressed Air Society.
Is it safe to clean dirt & debris from your work clothing or work area using compressed air?
For your safety never use compressed air to clean your work clothes or work area. There is a risk of fine debris entering the eyes, ears, nose, mouth or skin via compressed air streams which could result in injury.
Serious injuries also can be caused by compressed air entering the body at low pressures.
As an alternative, use a vacuum, brush or traditional cleaning methods to clean your workstation and clothing safely.
Is variable speed drive always the best solution for the most efficient part-load performance? When is this not the case?
Each individual variable speed drive compressor has an optimal tip speed range. This is where the compressor will work most efficiently.
In the instance where compressor load requirements fall outside of this range, you may need to consider other control options in order to produce the most efficient performance.
To find the best solution for your air compressor requirements, you will need to refer to the guidance of your compressor provider.
Can I use Worm Drive clips on pressure hose connection?
The use of Worm Drive clips (jubilee clips) is now illegal on pressure hose connection.
The HSE guidance recommends not to use worm drive clips but to use crimped clips instead, as some skill is required to ensure a sufficiently tight joint is made and a secure fitting under pressure.
Which air receivers are exempt from Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR 2000 S.I.128)?
All air receivers under 250 bar litres must comply with regulations 7, 11, 12 & 15 of PSSR 2000 S.I 128.
Regulations vary across most air receivers. Best practice is to check to ensure your air complies with all necessary PSSR 2000 S.I.128 regulations.
What is the difference between synthetic compressor fluids?
“Synthetic” refers to the base stock of the fluid or oil and means the fluid is not a standard hydrocarbon base stock,
Synthetic fluid in reciprocating piston compressors offers high polarity & solvency, keeping valve surfaces clean. Whilst also providing high thermal and oxidative stability whilst forming very few deposits.
Meanwhile in rotary air compressors, fully synthetic oils can extend compressor oil life from 1-2,000 hours up to over 8,000 hours when compared to mineral oil. Click here for further information.
Are generic replacement parts and generic compressor lubricants the same as manufacturer proprietary parts and lubricants?
Due to often unique specifications, manufacturer produced maintenance kits & replacement parts & lubricants are recommended for the best overall performance. Often providing the best results in terms of long term reliability & unit efficiency whilst often keeping manufacturer warranties intact.
However using high generic replacement parts can offer a convenient & cost effective solution especially without a valid warranty, we would always advise contacting a professional for specific enquiries.
When should filter elements be changed on my air compressor?
In applications relying on the quality of air produced by the compressor & dryer, ensuring air filters aren’t clogged will vastly contribute to a better quality of air produced. Operation costs whilst using clogged filters may also begin to exceed the replacement costs so refer to your manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule.
Certain coalescing filters may not ever develop excessive pressure differential on a pressure gauge, yet the performance will degrade over time consequently allowing the possibility of lubricant contaminated air downstream, contaminating the equipment.
Is oil contamination present in atmospheric air?
Atmospheric air is expected to contain between 0.05mg/m3 and 0.5mg/m3 of oil vapour depending on your immediate & local environment. Sources such as traffic and industrial pollution are the key contributors so rural areas are recommended for operation with lower air contamination.
Are blow guns legal to use in production areas and tool rooms?
The use of blowguns within production areas and tool rooms doesn’t currently fall under any government legislation with no restrictions on the type that can be used. Despite this, safety precautions are essential when working with blow guns as most of the health hazards are not visible to the human eye, such as dust and debris particles entering the eyes, ears, nose or skin potentially causing serious harm.
