The Four Main Components You Should Be Checking: A Parts Maintenance Guide
As temps continue to rise across the country, summer is in full swing – often translating into increased performance demand on your teams and their equipment. While it may seem counter-productive to put extra time towards equipment maintenance, performing regular service on your PM equipment is vital to keep them running effectively and efficiently, especially during peak production seasons. Our oil equipment maintenance guide helps you determine easy steps to keep your equipment running year-round.
TPL Tip: An automatic dump is recommended to consistently decrease the overall compressor condensation rate. We offer two options: pneumatic (which dumps each time the compressor comes on) and electric (which is set via timer to drain at certain intervals).
AIR COMPRESSOR:
Air compressors are by far the most important part of your lube equipment, as condensation within the tank will impact performance the most. If needed, a separator should be added to keep the air clean and dry.
- Drain air compressor daily
PUMPS:
Setting pumps to their recommended optimal pressures is vital to pump lifespan and performance. Often, users will set the PSI too high in an attempt to increase the flow rate – but this will only damage the pump over time.
Recommended Pump Pressure Settings:
- New oil pumps: 40-80 PSI
- Grease pumps: 80-100 PSI
- Diaphragm pumps: 30-60 PSI
TPL Tip: Diaphragm pumps are not designed to operate a PSI’s as high as new oil pumps. The average lifespan of a properly-maintained diaphragm pump is ~3 years. Primary maintenance of these pumps include emptying the filters and lubricating the spool valve at least once a year.
REELS & HOSES:
Reel spools should turn smoothly and with tension upon removal and retraction of the hose.
- Inspect hoses daily for cracks, worn spots, leaks, splitting, or kinks; if found, the hose should be replaced immediately
- Check coupler fittings on each end of the hose for leaks
- Inspect swivel assembly inside the reel hub for leaks
- Lubricate latch pawls (including spring) monthly to ensure proper function
METERS:
All meters – whether mechanical or digital – require minimal but important maintenance.
- Remove the inline filter screen and remove any debris (at least once per year)
TPL Tip: If you notice a decreased flow rate, despite having set optimal compressor pressures, cleaning the filter at that point is the first step to diagnose decreased flow and/or volume.
For digital meters, having a set of replacement batteries is advised. The meter will flash for several days indicating low battery.
Parts still not working properly? Unsure if it needs repair or replacement? Our in-house repair team can help.
Schedule a repair service today, or call us at (704) 786-9400.