The airend—or "air end"—is the part of your air compressor that houses the rotary screw and rotors. It is here that the actual compression of air takes place, with a motor sucking air between the rotors and discharging it out the other side. If there are issues with the airend, the compressor will not work as effectively as it should—if it works at all. Below, discover a few tips for inspecting the airend to ensure the compressor's smooth operation.

How to Inspect the Airend of a Rotary Screw Compressor

1. Regulate the Temperature

Modern air compressors can withstand routine heat exposure, and they regularly discharge temperatures up to 100 degrees above the temperature of the room. But there are limits to how much heat they can tolerate, and if they're in a particularly hot room, they could overheat and shut down. Overheating can also trigger premature oil failure. To better regulate the compressor's temperature, place the unit out of direct sunlight, check that the vents and coolers are clean and clear, maintain proper oil levels, and schedule routine maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer.

2. Check for Lubrication

Proper lubrication is essential for efficient air compression. It is injected into the compression chamber to keep rotors and bearings moving smoothly, with as little heat and friction as possible. Not only does this keep the compressor working optimally, but it extends the lifespan of your equipment by reducing unnecessary wear and tear. Check the compressor owner's manual to determine how and how often to change the lubricant. Also, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the best type of lubricant to use; without the correct type, the rotors and bearings will break down faster.

3. Look for Condensation

Condensation is a natural byproduct of the air compression process. However, excess water, especially in the airend, can be a sign of a problem, as it can easily spread to other internal components and damage the equipment. Fortunately, there is often an easy fix: Get in the habit of emptying the drip tray every day.

Keep your air compressor's airend operating optimally with service or parts from Industrial Compressor Supplies. Since 2007, they have served the Maryland Heights and St. Louis, MO, areas, plus customers across the country and worldwide. Their inventory includes air compressor lubricants, oil filters, and gauges, and they perform airend rebuilding and repairs. Call (877) 426-3131 or visit them online to request a quote.