Air compressors are an important tool in any industrial application’s arsenal. Due to their importance to the success of most industrial applications, the life expectancy of a particular air compressor is an important consideration when selecting the right machine for the job. So, how do you determine the life expectancy of your industrial air compressor, and how can you help extend its longevity, ensuring it works like new throughout its life?
How Long Should An Industrial Air Compressor Last?
The average lifespan of an industrial air compressor varies greatly depending on the specifics of the machine you select. Industrial air compressors are known to last anywhere from five to twenty-five years on average with proper maintenance. When purchasing an industrial air compressor, there are a few different things to consider that will impact the life expectancy of the equipment you choose.
The first factor to consider is the type of industrial air compressor you select. Some types of air compressors have a naturally longer lifespan than others. For example, reciprocating and oil-free air compressors can operate successfully for anywhere from five to ten years. Other types of compressors, like rotary screw and centrifugal compressors, are known to have lifespans of well over a decade. Determining which type of air compressor fits your industrial needs will give you a better idea of what you can expect when it comes to the longevity of your machine.
Factors That Impact the Life Expectancy of An Industrial Air Compressor
Once you’ve selected the right industrial air compressor for your application, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to impacts on the life expectancy of your machine.
First, you’ll need to take into account the quality of the machine you selected. Machines made with higher-quality materials typically come with a higher up-front cost; however, they also offer more peace of mind, knowing your machine is built with top-of-the-line materials that may extend its longevity. While you may be paying more for a higher-end machine in upfront costs, you could be saving money in the long run, as you won’t need to purchase a newer air compressor as early as you would if you were using a machine that was built using lower-quality materials.
Additionally, you’ll need to consider the workload your machine will have to take on. Some industrial applications require much more out of their equipment than other applications. Additionally, businesses in the same industry may experience higher or lower demands on their equipment depending on customer demand. If your industrial application places a high level of demand on your industrial air compressor, it’s likely your machine will have a shorter lifespan than an air compressor that doesn’t need to be used frequently, or one that is used for smaller workloads.
Last, you’ll need to consider the amount of time and effort you plan on putting into the maintenance of your industrial air compressor. Proper preventative maintenance is key when it comes to extending the life of your industrial air compressor. If you dedicate the appropriate time and energy to a preventative maintenance plan, you can count on your air compressor to perform well throughout its life expectancy.
Extending the Life Expectancy of An Industrial Air Compressor
Setting up a preventative maintenance plan and performing regular service on your industrial air compressor is the best way to keep it running smoothly during its lifespan. Here are a few tips and tricks for extending the life expectancy of your industrial air compressor:
- Ensure your compressor is clean: Dirt and dust are a constant presence in most industrial settings. Keeping your air compressor free of dust and debris is an important aspect of maintenance, as dirt and other particles can build up on your machine over time, causing the equipment to overheat.
- Keep an eye on temperature: Overheating, regardless of the cause, has the potential to damage your compressor system, so monitoring temperature is a must. Ensure your air compressor does not exceed the recommended temperature levels; if it does, power the machine off and identify the issue or contact a professional who can help.
- Maintain proper ventilation: Air compressors put off a considerable amount of heat during use. Proper ventilation can help prevent heat buildup, which would cause the machine’s temperature to exceed safe levels.
- Monitor oil levels: For most industrial air compressors to run properly, they need to be well-lubricated. Without an adequate supply of oil, excess friction can cause the machine itself to overheat quickly. Best practices involve checking oil levels daily or before each use on machines that operate infrequently.
- Change oil and filters regularly: Changing your filters and oil as necessary allows your machine to keep running properly. Without oil and filter replacement, particulates can build up in your machine’s oil supply, and filters may become clogged, resulting in diminished performance and potential damage to your equipment.
- Enact a preventative maintenance plan: Preventative maintenance is key and helps to address potential issues within your industrial air compressor before they become immediate concerns, saving you time, money, and potential downtime.
Why Choose ESA for Your Industrial Air Compressor Service?
At ESA, our trained technicians know exactly what it takes to extend the life expectancy of an industrial air compressor. We have decades of experience working with applications and compressors of all kinds, helping businesses just like yours maintain their success by ensuring their equipment is properly taken care of. And the best part? Our experts are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to answer any of your questions and address your concerns when it comes to your industrial air compressor. Our availability and dedication to client satisfaction are what keep our customers coming back with all their air compressor questions. For answers, call us today!