Solving Compressed Air Leaks

When running a dry cleaning plant, we seem to come up with all kinds of work-arounds to temporarily resolve machine issues just so we can get through production.  Compressed air issues are no exception – we simply solve this problem by increasing the regulator pressure, but doing this should not be a long-term fix.  If you are having compressed air issues, here’s what Tri-State Laundry Equipment recommends:

1. Check each machine’s air connection, which is typically into a coalescent filter and an air pressure regulator.  Ninety percent of the time, the filters we see are leaking air from the drain.  This is easily solved by either disassembling and cleaning or by a kit from the maker for a rebuild.  These kits contain the needed seals which have gone bad; the same applies to the regulator.
2. Examine each machine by closing off the air supply to the machines then opening only the air to the machine you are checking for leaks.  This will make it easier to pinpoint the location of the leak.  If the machine has vacuum or blower motor, you’ll need to either turn them off or disconnect the power to the motor so the machine can function, and you can hear and find the leaks more easily.  Specifically check fittings and cylinders as they are the most common locations for leaks.  Once they’ve been located, you’ll need fittings, air tubing, and cylinder repair kits to make the repairs.  Repeat the process on every machine until they’ve all been thoroughly examined, identified as leak-free, or all repairs have been made.

We realize this is quite a process.  I’ve been guilty of letting this kind of issue go in order to complete production, but I promise that the effort is worth it.  In the long run, having a properly operating machine with constant air pressure at the right pressure will reduce wear and tear on your air compressor, help reduce your utility costs, increase the quality of your product, and improve overall productivity.

If your business is struggling with air pressure issues, contact Tri-State Laundry Equipment at 1.866.885.5218.  We are glad to help.

Caring for Your Air Compressor

Good quality dry cleaning is part science and part art.  Over the years, dry cleaners have become more and more reliant on compressors, in part for the role they play in the proper function of a plant’s equipment but also for precise amounts of air on demand for things like specialized, detailed work.  So if your goal is to provide customers with bright, clean, crisply finished garments, but you are using dirty air, then you are fighting an uphill battle.  Luckily, it’s not difficult to use clean compressed air to run your equipment and to clean customer’s clothes. 

Below are some simple steps to keep your air compressor operating at peak efficiency:

• Intake Vents: If your intake vent is dirty or clogged, it will force your air compressor to work harder.  Regularly check and clean your vents, especially if you’re in a dusty environment. 
• Belts: Inspect them for excessive wear and damage, replacing them as needed.  Also be sure to check the tension, ensuring the belt can travel freely.
• Air filters: Exceptionally dirty or blocked air filters allow dirt from outside in, requiring your compressor to work harder to intake air.  Check your filters often and change them if they have a buildup of dust and dirt.  
• Oil: Consult the manufacturer’s guide to make sure you are using the proper oil.  Some manufacturers recommend non-detergent oil or synthetic oil.  Check the oil level on a daily basis to make sure it isn’t running low.  Finally, change out the oil every 500-1,000 hours to keep your compressor functioning properly.
• Separator:  If you allow water to accumulate, it will eventually get pulled back into the system.  Check and empty your separator regularly, and replace the element every 2,000 hours of operation.
• Heat Exchangers: Dirty heat exchangers won’t function at their max potential.  Cleaning them regularly will make it easier for them to keep temps down. 

Being proactive and properly maintaining your air compressor translates to money saved in the end because you reduce your chance of down time, will produce a quality product consistently, and your equipment will last longer.  But maintenance isn’t the only air compressor related topic we need to discuss.  It’s also important, especially important, to detect and solve air compressor leaks immediately.  Next month we’ll tackle that issue.  In the meantime, if you have an air compressor issue and need help, just contact Tri-State at 1.866.885.5218