When to rebuild your Air End and why
Rebuilding an air end is an optimal way to prolong the lifespan of an air compressor. The air end is also the most expensive part on the machine, which makes a rebuild a more cost-effective means of repairing an air compressor compared to replacing the entire system. A new air end will last between 30,000 and 100,000 run hours, while a rebuild lasts about 30,000 to 50,000 hours.
Does the Compressor Need a Rebuild?
Many people wonder if they should rebuild the airend or replace the system altogether. If the air compressor is older, it might make more sense to replace the system and get a new air end. However, rebuilding the air end before a major failure and with a fairly new system can prolong the air compressor’s lifespan. ESA can help you determine if it’s time to get a new air end or if yours can be repaired. To help answer the question, an ESA technician will conduct a vibration analysis to look for signs that a bearing is wearing out. A technician will also listen for loud, metallic sounds during the system’s operation that can indicate a problem with the bearings and check the system for hot spots located on the casting. A routine analysis will also be performed to check the air end temperature rise, bearing vibration trends and temperature trends, and the oil samples.
Preventing a Catastrophic Failure
With proper service and maintenance, you can prevent a catastrophic failure from occurring in the air compressor. Regular oil changes will help keep the compressed air system operating properly. Good preventative maintenance service will also help avoid failures and other problems with the air compressor. A preventative maintenance checklist will evaluate the condition of key parts, having an ESA technician perform a bearing vibration analysis, and oil sampling at regular intervals. Additionally, air compressor components may cause problems with the compressed air system if they get dirty or contaminated with grime. If a technician finds that the parts are dirty, they may need to be cleaned to help the air compressor run more efficiently. Additionally, a catastrophic failure may be avoided by testing the oil on a regular basis through an oil sampling problem.
The Cost of a Rebuild
After determining that you’re a good candidate for a rebuild, you’d probably like to know how much an air end rebuild will cost. The price of a rebuild varies based on the manufacturer, but it typically costs about 50% of the system’s initial price. Other prices should be considered for the air end rebuild too, including the cost of the new system’s installation and removing the old one. The consumable parts should be considered too.
Contact ESA today for an air end rebuild.
