What are you using your diesel compressor for?
A diesel compressor might be used for general workshop operations, abrasive blasting, pneumatic tools or a range of other applications. But if your compressor is also supplying breathing air, regular servicing becomes particularly important.
Breathing air starts with a well maintained diesel compressor
Regular breathing air testing helps confirm that the air being supplied to your workers meets the required standard (AS/NZS 1715:2009 – Use and maintenance of respiratory equipment).
We recommend breathing air is tested every three to six months, depending on the application and working environment. Regular filter replacement and compressor servicing are also an important part of maintaining your breathing air system.
But there is another part of your diesel compressor that shouldn’t be overlooked: the air/oil separator.
Your separator is a main line of defence
In an oil-injected diesel compressor, the separator removes oil from the compressed air before it leaves the compressor.
Like other service items, it doesn’t last indefinitely.
As the separator reaches the end of its service life, its performance can deteriorate and oil carryover can increase.
If that compressor is supplying breathing air, you’re then relying more heavily on downstream filtration to remove that contamination before the air reaches your workers.
That’s why separator replacement shouldn’t be overlooked or pushed beyond its recommended service life.
It should be replaced in line with the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals and the advice of your service technician, taking into account the compressor’s condition, operating hours and working environment.
Testing and service work together
Breathing air testing checks the quality of the air your workers are breathing.
Regular servicing helps maintain the compressor producing that air.
If you’re using a diesel compressor for abrasive blasting, confined-space work or another application requiring supplied breathing air, your maintenance should include:
- Regular diesel compressor servicing
- Air/oil separator inspection and replacement when required
- Breathing air filter replacement
- Breathing air testing every three to six months
Breathing air can contain contaminants you can’t see or smell, including oil, moisture, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and particulates.
Keeping your compressor serviced and your breathing air testing up to date helps control these risks and supports a safer breathing air supply for your workers.
When was your diesel compressor last serviced?
For diesel compressors supplying breathing air, our service team can check servicing requirements, replace filters and separators where required, and arrange breathing air testing.
Call our service team on 1300 290 638 or email info@nesscopressure.com.au to arrange diesel compressor servicing or breathing air testing.
