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To ensure best performance from the oil separation system, adhere to the following guidelines:
Before starting the unit, make sure that oil level is visible in the sight gauge. An oil level of at
least ½ the sight gauge height will ensure there is enough oil to safely operate the compressor.
During unit operation, and after a steady compressor discharge temperature is reached, check
the oil level:
o
Add oil only when the level is below the LOW mark on sight glass. This will make the refill
intervals less frequent. Note that each inch of oil level represents 2.0 gal. of oil.
o
Drain oil only when the level is above the HIGH mark on sight glass. Be aware that a
stopped unit, when filled to its maximum oil capacity (approximately 32 gallons), may show
a full sight glass – this is normal and does not require oil drainage.
o
The oil level in the sight glass will fluctuate as the compressor load changes, as a function
of the air/oil volume ratio within the compressor pipe works. Refer to Figure 5-1 for typical
operational oil levels attained at various compressor load levels and with a full charge of oil:
Figure 5-2 – LOAD VS SIGHT GLASS OIL LEVEL CHANGE
ADDITION OF OIL BETWEEN CHANGES – Oil losses (typically 2 ppm concentration) from the oil
separation system may require replenishment between scheduled changes. If (during operation only) the
oil level is at or below the LOW mark on the sight gauge, add oil per following steps: (See Figure 1-3,
page 10).
1.
Be sure the unit is completely off and oil sump is depressurized.
2.
Disconnect lockout and tagout the power supply to the compressor package.
3.
Close (when provided) valve isolating compressor package from air system.
4.
Wipe away all dirt around the oil filler plug.
5.
Remove the oil filler plug and add sufficient oil. A charge of 9 gallons will raise the operating oil level
from the LOW to the HIGH mark on the sight glass when the unit is running at 100% load. At lesser
loads, the sight glass oil level reached will be lower in proportion to the running load level listed on
Fig 5-2.
6.
Install the oil filler plug, open isolation valve (when provided), restore power, then run unit to check
for leaks and proper oil level.
Note that repeated addition of oil between oil changes may indicate excessive oil carry-over and should
be investigated.
Excessive oil carry-over can damage equipment. Do not overfill the reservoir.
Controller Display
Oil Sight Glass
Load Level - %
level with full oil
charge - inches
100
80
60
40
20
13-18-614
Oil Sight Glass
lowest acceptable
level - in
4.0
2.0
3.5
1.5
3.0
1.0
2.5
.5
2.0
.0
Page 39
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