We recently shared some common compressor problems and solutions. Today we’re sharing more troubleshooting steps for Hydrovane compressor problems.
Compressor shuts off on high-temperature: If your compressor trips on over temperature, it could be any of the following Hydrovane compressor problems:
- Ambient temperature is too high;
- There is not enough ventilation;
- Oil level is too low;
- Wrong type of oil;
- Dirty oil cooler;
- Thermostatic valve not working;
- Dirt or obstruction in oil lines
Compressor runs but will not load: A screw compressor can run loaded or unloaded. The inlet/loading valve opens and closes according to air demand. The inlet valve is controlled by a solenoid valve that delivers control air to the inlet/loading valve, so check:
- Electrical power to the solenoid valve;
- Solenoid valve coil and operation:
- Working of inlet/loading valve.
Low capacity/not enough pressure: First, check that there isn’t a very high air demand, or air leak somewhere.If the capacity of the air compressor is really too low, check if:
- The inlet valve is fully open;
- The separator needs to be replaced;
- The inlet filter is clean/
- Compressed air filters need to be replaced.
Safety Valve Blows/Too High Pressure: Compressor not unloading is another one of the common Hydrovane compressor problems. Check if pressure switch is correctly set and working. Check inlet valve and loading solenoid for good operation. If the safety valve is located before the oil separator, check differential pressure of oil separator.
There is oil in compressed air: This can have various causes:
- Oil separator old / saturated
- Scavenge line plugged
- Too high running temperature
- Too high oil level
- Wrong type of oil used
- Minimum pressure valve not working
Water in compressed air: Water is a natural byproduct of air compression but it can still create Hydrovane compressor problems. There will always be water in compressed air, unless it is removed.Check the condensate trap for good operation. There should be water coming out every few minutes. If you open up the manual drain, there should only a little water be coming out.
If you have a compressed air dryer, check the dewpoint.
Compressor overload relay trips: Check the current draw with a current clamp meter.If the motor draws excessive current:
- Try to turn the compressor by hand – it should be possible to turn it around smoothly;
- Check the isolation of the motor windings;
- Check the voltage when the compressor is running – if the voltage drops significantly when the compressor starts/runs, check all relays, fuses and electrical connections;
- Check if all phases are present.
If the motor draws it’s normal current, but still trips on overload, replace the overload relay with a new one. If you have more troubleshooting questions regarding Hydrovane compressor problems, we’d love to help! Call today and let one of our experts answer all your questions.
