Reciprocating refrigeration compressors installed in water chillers, are like car

engines. They have a crankshaft and bearings, pistons and piston rings, valve gear a sump full of oil and an oil filter.

 

Like car engines they suffer wear and tear and will require routine service and maintenance up to the point, where they will require a complete overhaul. Unlike the average car engine, a reciprocating compressor will have covered the equivalent of 1,000,000 miles after 4 years continuous operation.

 

Neglecting maintenance leads to poor performance, higher electricity costs and premature failure resulting in high unexpected repair costs.

 

 

 

To maintain the manufacturers design performance, energy consumption and expected life cycles, Coolmation Service, the UK’s leading Water Chiller service organisation makes the following recommendations for maintaining reciprocating compressors.

 

Every 6 months:

 

  • Inspect the electrical contactors for signs of wear.
  • Tighten the electrical connections.
  • Check the tightness of the compressor mounts.
  • Inspect around the compressor for signs of oil or refrigerant leaks.
  • Check the oil level in the compressor.
  • Check the operation of the oil pressure switch.
  • Carry out a performance test and measure the running amps/phase. 

Every 12 months:

 

  • Change the compressor oil and filter. 

Every 4 years:

 

  • Conduct a complete mechanical overhaul.

A Coolmation Chiller Shield maintenance scheme can be put in place or extended to include full compressor maintenance. For details and a quotation, call the Coolmation Service Desk on Freephone 0800 783 9559