Powerful 4.0 Hp Ultra Quiet, Ultra Dry & Oil-Free Air Compressor with Drying System and Automatic Drain Valve. Image: California Air Tools
Tool maintenance involves the storage, frequent checkups, and cleaning of tools to ensure that they are in proper working condition. Maintenance also enables the tools to last longer, compared to unmaintained tools. Taking care of your tools allows you to solve rusting problems and prevent spillages which may, in turn, affect the overall work output.
The biggest worry in the maintenance of air tools is accumulated moisture. Air compressors work by transforming atmospheric air into pressurized gas. Well, we know that the air in the atmosphere is a combination of several gases, including water vapor. When water vapor is compressed in the air tools, it condenses to form water.
Some compressors are, however, manufactured to prevent moisture retention, hence become easy to maintain. Here are some of the tips that can reduce your maintenance worries.
- Oil your tools regularly.
For the oil-based compressors, it's advisable to regularly oil the tool. This is because the machine is made up of a system of gears, rotary screws, and pistons which move to enable air compression. Lubricating prevents rusting and ensures that the different parts can move at the required speed. Again, when the condensed moisture mixes with the oil, it weakens the lubrication. Frequent oiling will save you a lot of repairing costs, because the air compressor can simply stop working when there's too much rust or moisture buildup.
- Set a maintenance and repair schedule.
Setting a schedule is important because as humans, we tend to forget easily. We, therefore, notice problems after they occur, even though we could have easily prevented such issues from occurring. Set a schedule. It could be quarterly or yearly, whichever you prefer. If it's a massive duty air machine, you might want to do a monthly check just to ensure it’s in shape. Maintenance doesn't have to be expensive. You can do the checkup personally.
- Use the tool properly.
Most of the air tools have a recommended pressure level, depending on the type of work you're doing. Running the compressor at a higher pressure than the recommended one can damage the machine. This can also cause major injuries. For instance, if the horse pipe bursts, it could injure the person operating the machine.
- Keep the tools clean.
This is one important tip you should never brush off. Keeping your tools clean will prevent clogging which may, in turn, damage the machine. Woodworks and gardening leave a lot of dirt residues on your air tool. Cleaning may not be a gratifying hobby, but it will save you on repair costs. Make sure you do a thorough cleanup on the joints which are harder to see.
- Do frequent repairs.
Repairing is also an essential mode of maintenance. Don't ignore the damaged areas as these can cause major injuries and reduce the work output.
You can, however, save yourself the maintenance worries by investing in maintenance-free tools. Check out the CAT 8010 reviews for a maintenance-free solution.
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