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BOBCAT ROTARY SCREW SERVICE |
WWW.HKAIRCOMPRESSORS.COM
214-428-2868
Troubleshooting and Maintenance Guide for Your Bobcat Rotary Screw Air Compressor
Introduction
Bobcat rotary screw air compressors are widely used in industrial, construction, and agricultural applications due to their efficiency, reliability, and ability to provide a continuous supply of compressed air. However, like any mechanical system, these compressors can experience operational issues that require troubleshooting. Additionally, regular maintenance, including changing the air oil separator, oil filter, air filter, and rotary screw oil, is crucial to ensure longevity and efficiency. This guide will explore common problems, their potential causes, solutions, and step-by-step instructions for performing essential maintenance tasks.
1. Compressor Fails to Start
Possible Causes:
Power supply issues
Faulty start/stop switch
Blown fuses or tripped breakers
Low oil levels or oil pressure
Overloaded motor
Faulty pressure switch
Troubleshooting Steps:
Check the power source and ensure the unit is properly plugged in.
Inspect the fuses and breakers, replacing any that are blown or reset if necessary.
Ensure the start/stop switch is functional and replace it if necessary.
Verify that oil levels are sufficient and top off if needed.
Allow the motor to cool if it has overheated and reset any overload protection.
Check the pressure switch for continuity and replace it if defective.
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2. Compressor Runs but Does Not Build Pressure
Possible Causes:
Air leaks in the system
Faulty pressure relief valve
Worn or damaged airend
Clogged air filters
Malfunctioning inlet valve
Troubleshooting Steps:
Listen for hissing sounds or use a soapy water solution to identify air leaks.
Inspect and test the pressure relief valve; replace if necessary.
Check for signs of wear on the airend; if worn, it may need repair or replacement.
Inspect and clean/replace the air filters to ensure proper airflow.
Ensure the inlet valve is opening and closing properly; repair or replace if necessary.
3. Excessive Oil Consumption or Oil in Compressed Air
Possible Causes:
Incorrect oil type or overfilling
Worn or damaged oil separator
Faulty or clogged scavenge line
High operating temperatures
Excessive oil carryover
Troubleshooting Steps:
Use the correct grade of oil and maintain proper oil levels.
Inspect and replace the oil separator if necessary.
Ensure the scavenge line is free from blockages.
Monitor operating temperatures and improve ventilation if overheating occurs.
Check for excessive oil carryover and adjust settings accordingly.
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4. Overheating Issues
Possible Causes:
Clogged or dirty coolers
Low oil levels
Faulty thermostatic valve
High ambient temperatures
Blocked ventilation or restricted airflow
Troubleshooting Steps:
Clean coolers and ensure they are free from dirt and debris.
Check and maintain proper oil levels.
Test and replace the thermostatic valve if needed.
Improve ventilation and reduce ambient temperatures if possible.
Ensure vents and cooling fans are not obstructed.
5. Excessive Noise or Vibration
Possible Causes:
Loose components or mounts
Worn bearings
Unbalanced rotating parts
Misaligned belts or pulleys
Internal airend damage
Troubleshooting Steps:
Inspect and tighten all bolts and mounts.
Check for bearing wear and replace if needed.
Inspect and balance rotating components.
Align belts and pulleys properly.
If internal airend damage is suspected, consult a professional for repair or replacement.
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6. Moisture in Compressed Air
Possible Causes:
Malfunctioning aftercooler or dryer
Excessive humidity in the environment
Improperly drained condensate
Faulty drain valve
Troubleshooting Steps:
Ensure aftercoolers and dryers are functioning correctly.
Use additional moisture removal equipment in high-humidity conditions.
Regularly drain the compressor tank to remove accumulated moisture.
Inspect and repair/replace faulty drain valves.
7. Changing the Air Oil Separator, Oil Filter, Air Filter, and Rotary Screw Oil
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Bobcat rotary screw air compressor in optimal working condition. Below are step-by-step instructions on how to change the air oil separator, oil filter, air filter, and rotary screw oil.
Step 1: Gather Required Tools and Materials
Replacement air oil separator
Replacement oil filter
Replacement air filter
Appropriate rotary screw compressor oil
Wrenches and socket set
Oil drain pan
Clean rags
Safety gloves and glasses
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BOBCAT AIR COMPRESSOR SERVICE NEAR ME WWW.HKAIRCOMPRESSORS.COM 214-428-2868 |
Step 2: Turn Off and Depressurize the Compressor
Switch off the compressor and unplug it from the power source.
Allow the compressor to cool before performing any maintenance.
Open the drain valve to release pressure from the system.
Step 3: Change the Air Oil Separator
Locate the air oil separator housing.
Use a wrench to remove the bolts securing the separator.
Carefully remove the old separator and discard it properly.
Install the new separator, ensuring a proper seal.
Reassemble the housing and tighten the bolts securely.
Step 4: Change the Oil Filter
Locate the oil filter on the compressor.
Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter.
Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new filter.
Install the new filter by hand and tighten it securely.
Step 5: Change the Air Filter
Locate the air filter housing.
Remove the cover and take out the old air filter.
Inspect the filter for excessive dirt and damage.
Insert the new air filter and secure the cover.
Step 6: Drain and Replace Rotary Screw Oil
Position an oil drain pan beneath the compressor’s oil drain plug.
Remove the plug and allow the old oil to fully drain.
Dispose of used oil according to environmental regulations.
Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely.
Fill the compressor with the recommended rotary screw oil.
Check oil levels using the sight glass and adjust as needed.
Step 7: Restart and Inspect the Compressor
Reconnect the power and turn on the compressor.
Allow the compressor to run and check for any leaks.
Monitor system pressure and ensure proper operation.
Conclusion
Proper troubleshooting and maintenance of your Bobcat rotary screw air compressor can help prevent downtime and costly repairs. By systematically identifying potential issues and addressing them promptly, you can ensure that your compressor operates efficiently and reliably. Regular maintenance, including changing the air oil separator, oil filter, air filter, and rotary screw oil, will further extend the lifespan of your compressor and enhance its efficiency.