TM 5-3805-280-10
AIR COMPRESSOR - LUBRICATION
NOTICE
GENERAL INFORMATION
Some oil types are incompatible when mixed
and result in the formation of varnishes,
Lubrication is an essential part of preventive
shellacs, or lacquers which may be
maintenance, affecting to a great extent the
insoluble. Such deposits can cause serious
useful life of the unit. Different lubricants are
troubles including clogging of the filters.
needed and some components in the unit
Where possible, do NOT mix oils of different
require more frequent lubrication than
types and avoid mixing different brands. A
others. Therefore, it is important that the
type or brand change is best made at the
instructions regarding types of lubricants
time of a complete oil drain and refill.
and the frequency of their application be
explicitly followed. Periodic lubrication of the
If the unit has been operated for the time/
moving parts reduces to a minimum the
hours mentioned above, it should be
possibility of mechanical failures.
completely drained of oil. If the unit has
been operated under adverse conditions, or
The Preventive Maintenance Schedule
after long periods in storage, an earlier
shows those items requiring regular service
change period may be necessary as oil
and the interval in which they should be
deteriorates with time as well as by
performed. A regular service program
operating conditions.
should be developed to include all items and
fluids.
These intervals are based on
WARNING
average operating conditions. In the event
of extremely severe (hot, cold, dusty or wet)
High pressure air can cause severe injury
operating
conditions,
more
frequent
or death from hot oil and flying parts.
lubrication than specified may be necessary.
Always relieve pressure before removing
Details concerning lubrication of the running
caps, plugs, covers or other parts from
gear are in Maintenance Section.
pressurized air system.
Ensure the
All filters and filter elements for air and
following conditions are met:
compressor lubricant must be obtained
- Discharge air pressure gauge reads
through Ingersoll-Rand to assure the proper
size and filtration for the compressor.
zero
(0).
- No air discharging from an "open"
manual blowdown valve.
COMPRESSOR OIL CHANGE
An oil change is good insurance against the
These units are normally furnished with an
accumulation of dirt, sludge, or oxidized oil
initial supply of oil sufficient to allow
products.
operation of the unit for approximately 6
months or 1000 hours, whichever comes
first. If a unit has been completely drained
of all oil, it must be refilled with new oil
before it is placed in operation. Refer to
specifications in Lubrication Table.
18-10