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Tips and Techniques

Air Tool Maintenance
Basic air tool maintenance tips to get the most from your air tools.

MORE THAN JUST HOT AIR!

Always remember that the larger the air tool, the greater will be the volume of compressed air required to operate it.

It is of paramount importance that the supply compressor is of sufficient capacity to maintain this volume, and consequently, the pressure.

Manifold (supply) lines, fittings and hoses with too small an internal diameter restrict the airflow, so these items must be of a size which will allow the required airflow to be maintained to the machine’s air motor. If this flow is not available, the pressure to the air motor will decrease and this will drastically reduce the work output.

Air hoses from the manifold should be as short as possible, commensurate with convenience. Excessively long hoses do reduce volumetric efficiency. Remember also that just because your regulator gauge indicates the required pressure, it does not necessarily follow that this pressure is available to the air motor. Flow restrictions can cause considerable pressure reduction.

Because the air motor operates at extremely high speed, it is vital that it be supplied with adequate and correct lubrication. Do not, under any circumstances, use an oil which is not approved or recommended for air tool use. The use of the incorrect type of oil causes gumming of vanes and rotor, so that eventually the machine will cease to operate. For machines in frequent use, it is suggested that a good type of non-restrictive airline oiler be installed, preferably at the manifold hose take off point. (Note: Please remember that you cannot use this point or hose with a spray gun, as the resultant mixture of oil and paint is not suitable for painting.

The air motor in your machine does not require a lot of oil. It is quite happy with the oil mist equivalent to just one drop every minute of working time.

Experience indicates that many people overlook the importance of keeping that atmospheric moisture (which condenses from the compressed air) away from the air tool. An efficient water separator of sufficient size to handle the airflow is therefore a must, as is regular draining of the compressor receiver.

Many air tools are badly damaged by such neglect. It is perhaps prudent to point out at this juncture that damage caused to a new tool by incorrect lubrication, or water damage, is not covered under the terms of any warranty.

Also, see that the machine is protected against the ingress of grit, metal filings, etc... through the air inlet when disconnected from the air hose. Many malfunctions are caused in this way, and again, are not covered by any warranty.

So be kind to your air operated tool, and it will give you good service.

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