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GUIDELINES FOR SUCCESSFUL ROTARY VANE COMPRESSOR INSTALLATION

Written by Mattei Compressors | Nov 26, 2018 11:00:00 PM

When you decide to invest in an industrial rotary vane air compressor — like the world-class systems designed by Mattei — it’s critical to install your new machine properly.

Installing your machine correctly will help to ensure its sustained energy efficiency and long service life. Though you should always refer to the machine’s instructions before you begin, this is a general guide to safe installation:

 

1. Know What You Need

Mattei rotary vane compressors are fully-outfitted and ready-to-use upon purchase. This means there is no need to invest in foundations, isolator pads, or installation equipment. However, a few supplementary parts are recommended to augment the performance of your new compressed air system.

The cabinets of a Mattei rotary vane air compressor include threaded inserts to facilitate ducting the exhaust heat away from the machine and surrounding area— however, ducting is not included. We recommend that operators install exhaust ducting on these inserts to push excess heat away from the compressor while in use.

Further, the supply included with your purchase of a Mattei compressor does not include a disconnect switch generally referred to as a “breaker” or any protective fuses. Both are important components of a safe, properly functioning compressed air system, so you should purchase and install them before completing installation.

Always ensure you have hoses and pneumatic tools of the right size and made of suitable material for use with your compressed air system. If you have questions about what attachments and tools can be added to your machine, contact your distributor.

 

2. Position Your Air Compressor

Critical to proper air compressor installation are the location, ambient environmental conditions, and positioning of your system. Compressors should always be installed in a location with sufficient protection from the elements. If you cannot install your compressor in an indoor facility or garage, or if your primary compressed air applications require you to work outdoors, ensure your compressor is located under a roof or another covering to protect it from harsh environmental conditions and atmospheric contaminants.

Regardless of where you choose to install your compressor, it should always have access to adequate ventilation. Never position your compressor close to a heat source or any flammable gases. Most industrial compressed air systems are designed for peak operation between 34 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, with around 90% relative humidity. Never install a compressor in an area where temperatures reach freezing without taking precautionary measures with the installation to protect against internal damage from freezing or where temperatures exceed 104 degrees, as extreme temperatures can result in high temperature shutdowns that impede productivity and can result in premature failure or damage of machine parts.

Finally, you should always allow at least three feet of clearance around all sides of your compressor to ensure operators and servicers have room to crouch beside it and perform necessary maintenance.

 

3. Arrange Parts

Once your air compressor is properly positioned in a well-protected and well-ventilated work area, the last step is arranging the electrical and air connections and any additional parts you may need. Once you have hooked your compressor up to a nearby power source and attached your pneumatic tools, exhaust ducting, extensions, or any other supplemental parts you may need, your machine should be ready for operation.

If you have any questions about how to install your air compressor safely and properly, contact your distributor.