Industrial applications utilize rotary screw air compressors over any other type. However, the problem with rotary screw compressors is that cold weather can cause setbacks if they are not winterized. There are many strange ideas floating around about this problem. These misconceptions are often passed on by people who do not know the proper maintenance steps that should be taken for the compressors that will be used in bitterly cold weather conditions.

Many people think that because their compressor is inside a heated building, it will not be affected by outside air temperatures. This is not true, because the oil coolers are often vented to the outside of the building. Oil that is trapped in a cooler that is exposed to cold air can become thick and will not circulate. Some rotary screw air compressors have thermal or bypass valves in the oil cooling system. This helps protect the compressor parts during startup in cold weather.

The valve must be checked regularly to ensure that it is operating properly. Synthetic oil can be a good help because it will circulate easier at low temperatures. However, the real problem is water build up in the oil sump because the water will not boil off and evaporate when the compressor is working under 140 degrees F. Problems caused by the water buildup can be avoided by occasionally draining a small amount of oil during cold weather before starting the compressor up.

In cold weather, rotary screw air compressors can be damaged by condensation problems. Moisture in the lines can cause sensors to send bad signals to the control boards, which can damage compressor parts. Many times this problem goes unnoticed until someone is alerted by the constant relief of air pressure at the safety valves. There are many drains placed strategically along the air lines in screw compressors that lead to discharge lines. These discharge lines empty outside and can become blocked by ice in very cold conditions. This ice blockage must be removed and the condensation allowed to drain before shutting down at night, otherwise moisture will back up into the air lines and cause damage to the expensive components in the system.

Even if the decision is made to use rotary screw air compressors only during the summer, it is important to winterize the compressors. Fresh oil and a change in the filter are necessary before storage. Bearings and compressor parts can be damaged by acids that have developed in the used oil, if it is left sitting for long periods of time. Putting fresh oil in screw compressors eliminates the problem. It is a good idea to manually rotate the motors a few times a month during the winter and keep the rotors coated with fresh oil. Make sure that your maintenance staff is educated about your compressors, as outside service can be very expensive and downtime may be the result of a lack of maintenance.

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