Oil is an important part of compressors. Lack of oil can damage the air compressor internally or even burn it. Oil helps lubrication, keeps the air compressor cool, minimize the wear and tear due to friction of the moving parts. This article will help HVAC technicians to charge air compressor oil easily and safely. If you are not an HVAC technician, you can still do it given that you have sufficient knowledge and experience. In any case, you must follow the safety procedures: wear proper dress, safety goggles, safety shoes, and gloves. Switch off your mobile phone at work site to prevent accident.
Necessary tools and equipments: open end wrench set, ratchet wrench, double gauge manifold set, safety goggles, hand gloves, cotton etc.
Steps to charge compressor oil
1. Use open end wrench to remove the stem cover of the suction service valve. Now, use ratchet wrench to close the suction service valve of the running compressor by moving its stem to front seat.
2. Look at the compound gauge attached with it. If there is no compound gauge attached, you must fix your double gauge manifold set. Observe the pressure while it is coming to vacuum.
3. Now, connect the oil drum to the oil charging line. Be sure the drum is upside down so that the level of the oil has an easy flow to the compressor.
4. Start charging oil by opening the charging valve to allow small quantity of oil.
5. Observe/see the oil gauge glass or level indicator on the compressor. If the oil level is under the full charge level; then charge to that level and close the charging valve.
6. Close the oil drum valve and put it in a safe place.
7. Open the suction service valve and move the stem to back seat position.
8. Observe all pressures of compressor that is suction pressure, discharge pressure and oil pressure and compare it to the service manuals.
9. Use previous data records to compare it after oil charge.
10. Close the stem cover of suction service valve.
Finally, check out for any leakage of oil, clean the area you worked. Be careful about moving V-belts; it may cause serious injuries in case of slight distraction.