Safe Operation Procedures for Air Compressors: A Lifesaving Guide Every Operator Must Master

jiaqi.wu@chanuncompressor.com WhatsApp: +86 13862059949

language

NEWS

knowledge

Company News

Corporate News

Safe Operation Procedures for Air Compressors: A Lifesaving Guide Every Operator Must Master

Release time:

2025-09-26

Safe Operation Procedures for Air Compressors: A Lifesaving Guide Every Operator Must Master

CHANUN Air Compressor

Operating procedures are not just rules posted on a wall—they are lessons written in blood and experience. As the power core of industrial production, an air compressor’s operating standards directly affect both personnel safety and equipment lifespan. Many “accidental” incidents stem from neglecting these safety rules.

1. The “Five-Step Pre-Start Check” – Your First Line of Defense

Before starting, always ensure the oil level in the oil sump is within the marked range and that the oil grade meets the specified requirements. Check that the oil in the oil injector is not below the minimum mark.

For water-cooled compressors, always open the cooling-water valve before starting the motor. Do not run the unit without cooling water, and stop it immediately if the water supply fails.

Before starting, open the drain valve at the bottom of the air receiver, and manually rotate the flywheel one full turn to confirm there are no abnormal noises or signs of jamming. Operator attire also matters: do not wear loose clothing, ties, or jewelry; female workers must wear work caps and secure their sleeves and buttons before operating.

2. The “Twelve Monitoring Points” During Operation – Stay Vigilant

Start the compressor under no-load conditions, and only apply load once it runs smoothly. During normal operation, closely monitor:

Lubricating oil pressure must remain between 1–5 kg/cm² and never drop below 1 kg/cm².
Cooling water flow must be smooth and even, with a temperature not exceeding 40 °C.
Discharge temperature must not exceed 160 °C.

Record operating conditions every hour. Every two hours, open each stage’s oil-water drain valve to discharge condensate. If lubricating oil or cooling water supply is interrupted, discharge pressure suddenly rises, the safety valve fails, or any abnormal noise is detected, stop the machine immediately for inspection.

3. Proper Shutdown and Emergency Handling Are Equally Critical

For normal shutdown: first close the unloading valve, then open each stage’s cooler and oil-water drain valve, and finally disconnect the power supply.

In emergencies, for example when suction and discharge pipes are long, secure them to prevent vibration. Calibrate the pressure gauge once a year; test the automatic action of the safety valve monthly; recalibrate and seal it every six months.

Never use gasoline or kerosene to clean the compressor’s crankcase, filters, or similar parts—this can cause explosions.

Safety operation is not about mechanically following steps; it is about developing a constant sense of alertness. Every operator must understand that each rule in these procedures is a lifesaving principle distilled from past accidents.