How long should a compressor last?

[IaininTenbury]

Hi all,
Just had the pump unit on my workshop compressor fail. (in a spectacular sounding way - I'd already stopped spraying and had retreated to a safe distance!). Anyway, looking at replacement pumps, I then wondered if this was really the best way to go as the rest of it is getting on a bit, and the date plate on the tank must be there for a purpose. Is there an advised maximum life span for a compressor tank? I've not seen one published anywhere, so I'm wnodering if I'd be better off buying a comlete new compressor? Don't really want to, as it seems wasteful as the motor and tank are, I think ok.

[Alec]

Hello Iain,

my compressor is so old I've forgotten it's age, must be getting on for thirty years?

Industrial air receivers are regularly inspected for insurance purposes and the main concern is corrosion. If you tank has been drained regularly then it may be worth taking the chance. However I don't know the cost of a replacement pump versus replacing the compressor?

Alec

[MarkyB]

A bit more info about it might help, like what make and age is it and how has it failed?
Does the pump have a sump? I seem to remember this feature on compressors I've seen, but they may have been ancient or industrial spec.

[IaininTenbury]

It was the age of the air receiver I was wondering about. Mines 1996, but has only seen regular use in the last 5 years when I moved to the new workshop. Before then it was an extravagently large home compressor and I had a much older one at work which I let a friend have when I moved. Probably not been drained as often as it should due to being in a corner of the building and difficult to get to at times. Its a Sealey brand and I guess comparatively recent in style and construction as you can still buy an almost identical looking one, though if I was replacing I'd probably go 3phase no I've got the chance.

Regarding the pump failure, its been rattling for the last couple of months. Oil was kept topped up (little sight glass at the bottom of the casting) but it has been sending oil out with the air. Rattling progressed to the odd screech interspersed with the rattle. Only heard similar sounds on a Minor engine with broken rings and damaged piston. The 'rattly bang screech' reached a cresendo before it jammed and stalled the 3hp motor, at which point I was already heading for the off switch.

[kittyfell]

If you are a 'workplace' you will be subject to the Pressure Systems Safety Regs, and so your air system and the receiver should have a full inspection every two years, and a 'visual' every year by your Insurance Inspector. You must also have the test certificate for the receiver in your possession. All this may not apply if you are a 'sole trader', ie NO ONE else works in the premises - only yourself. However the Regs are there for a good purpose - and the local HSE Inspector will want to know you are following the Regs........... and they get VERY hot under the collar about paint spraying. I suggest a complete new system will be wise and make sure you get the test certificate as a very minimum.

[IaininTenbury]

Fortunately I'm a sole trader so little applies at the moment, but as things are likely to change in that respect this year, I want to do things in a correct fashion. Painting however is very much off the cards as its a route I very much don't wish to go down H&S wise. I'll stick with being a metalworking specialist and sub contract any painting jobs I get. Doing bits on my own cars however is a different matter!
Still not found any hard and fast guide on age of reciever tanks, other than the 2 yearly inspection you mention, so current plan is to replace the pump unit and get it runnign again, then see about a deal on a nice big lazy 3phase system over the summer and flog off the old one for diy use.

[katy]

Probably not been drained as often as it should due to being in a corner of the building and difficult to get to at times.

The solution to this is: remove the drain valve, run a line out to where it's accessible, then re-install the drain valve. That way you can drain it daily.

[IaininTenbury]

Good idea, I'll give that a go.