If you have recently started a DIY project inside your home that requires the use of more professional tools, then you may have decided to purchase or rent pneumatic tools. This is often ideal if you need to secure numerous staples or nails within a short period of time. If you already have the pneumatic tools, then you will need the air source to power them. Air compressors provide the air you need, and you can rent a compressor. If you have never used one before, then you will need some tips to help you make the most out of the rented device.
Release Water Regularly
Most air compressors work in the same way. They pull in outside air through a vent, the air is moved to the compression chamber, the air is compressed, and it is moved to a holding tank. When the air is compressed, water vapor is forced out of the air. However, the water does not evaporate. It moves into the holding tank along with the air. While some air compressors do have automatic water release valves that get rid of fluid as it accumulates, others have manual ones that need to be emptied by hand.
If you do not remove water from the compressor with the assistance of the water release valve, then the air tank will fill with water eventually. When this happens, you will notice the compressor turning on and off regularly and a reduction in the volume of air that releases from the output nozzle. Also, more and more water will release from the output opening as the fluid builds up. This can cause corrosion issues, and it can also cause your pneumatic tools to malfunction.
To avoid air volume and tool function issues, make sure to drain the tank every day before and after you use your tools for an extended period of time. Since water is heavier than air, the fluid will sink to the bottom of the tank. This means that the water release valve will also be located on the bottom of the air holding tank. The valve will look like a small ring or nut that can be turned. Place a small container under the nut and turn it a small amount to the left until water starts to drip out. When water stops dripping, close the valve.
When you drain water from the tank, you may be surprised that the fluid is red, brown, or black in color. This is common and is often caused by compressor oil and tank rust mixing with the water.
Clean Input Openings And Filter
If you are working in an area that is dusty or dirty, then you may find that the compressor is not releasing as much air as it should. Also, air pressure may drop significantly the more and more you use the compressor, and the device may seem as though it is becoming quite warm. All of these things indicate that the air input vent is clogged with debris.
The air input vent is a common area that can become clogged. The input vent is a small space on the top of the compressor that pulls air into the system. This vent is usually covered by a plastic grate, and the grate collects some of the debris that moves into the compressor. An air filter placed right before the compressor piston also collects some of the dirt. When both the vent and the filter become congested with debris, the compressor pump will have a hard time pulling in air. This can lead to the overheating of the compressor pump and poor air volume.
To prevent air movement issues, make sure to clean the air input vent with the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner. Also, clean the air filter as well. The air filter is located in the filter housing. This is a round attachment that typically sits on the very top of the compressor and just behind the input vent. Look for screws or other attachments on the outside of the filter housing. Remove the attachments, pull off the housing cover, and pull out the filter. Gently clean the filter with your vacuum cleaner. For more information, contact a company like Summit Tool Rentals Division Of Wirtz Rentals.
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