Knowing When It Is Time to Replace the Damping Plate on Your Compressor

Damping plates play an important role when it comes to how your compressor works. They work by absorbing any type of noise and vibration to provide a smoother and softer running machine. This is great if you use the compressor a lot because you will not have to listen to it run all day long. Sometimes, these damping plates fail to work properly due to mechanical stress. It is important to be aware of the signs to look for to know when it is time for a replacement part.

It Is a Good Idea to Listen for Any Noise or Sounds from the Compressor

If it seems as though the compressor has just started making rattling sounds or unusual noises of any kind, it may be time to get a brand new damping plate. You can typically tell where the noise is coming from by using a stethoscope. This will help you determine if it is, indeed, the damping plate that is causing the issue. This part works to decrease the sounds you hear when the machine is running, so find a well-known company who can provide you with quality parts to replace it right away.

If There Are Cracks on the Damping Plate, It May Be Time to Get a Brand New One

Having cracks on this part is actually not uncommon. Due to the constant vibration the damping plate goes through as the machine runs, it tends to wear out and crack as time goes by. If your compressor has suddenly become noisy, it may be best to check the plate for any hairline fractures. One tiny crack can lead to the entire plate cracking and breaking. It is best to go ahead and replace it before you run into bigger problems.

Be Sure the Plate Is Centered as It Should Be

The damping plate should be properly centered to guarantee it is doing its job as well as possible. If a lot of sounds are being heard when the compressor is on, it is wise to loosen the bolts and make sure the plate is in the very center. Not only will this help it work in a more efficient way, but it will also extend its lifespan, saving you time and money. The best way to know if the plate is already damaged is if you are unable to center it in the right place. If this is the case, go ahead and purchase a replacement part for your machine.

Remove Any Debris from the Plate to See If It Works Again

If the damping plate has become very noisy, it may be a good idea to clean it well. If any dirt or debris has gotten on the plate, it may be causing it to not function properly. Clean it off and replace it to see if that resolves the noise problem. If not, it is likely time to get a new part.

There are many things to be aware of to know when it is time to purchase brand new damping plates for your air compressor. Find a great company near you to purchase a replacement part right away.

Improve the Performance of Your Machine With Conical Springs

 

Springs are used in the manufacturing process of many different types of machines. They are necessary parts of automobiles and different types of tools. If you are designing or producing a product that uses springs, you may be aware of how crucial these simple components can be. While there are different types of springs available on the market, you may produce a better quality product by using conical springs.

Useful in minimal solid height space

Because the spirals on conical springs gradually increase in size, they are able to be compressed almost completely flat. The coils with a smaller diameter will nest or telescope into the coils with a larger diameter. This gives them an advantage over traditional compression springs in situations where there is not much space allowance between parts. When compressed, conical springs have a solid height of between one and two wire diameters, but are still able to maintain a variable pitch and constant spring rate. Their ability to be so tightly compressed also provides more room for the spring to travel.

Provide greater stability

Triangle or cone shapes are known as the most stable of the shapes due to their extremely low center of gravity.  The chance that your springs will buckle under whatever amount of pressure applied is greatly reduced when conical springs are used compared to normal compression springs. They also provide better lateral stability under shifting pressures.

Limit the effects of vibration

The release of a spring as well as activities from other moving parts in a machine can cause resonance and vibration in the spring itself. The uniform pitch of conical springs allows any vibration to have an increasing natural period at the bottom of each coil as opposed to the constant vibration that occurs in  regular compression springs. This effect reduces the amount of vibration in the conical spring which can have a tremendous impact on the overall quality of the results produced by your machine.

Offer an increasing force rate

The uniform diameter of compression springs give them a constant force rate. While there are benefits to this type of spring, a constant force rate can limit the amount of travel they are able to produce. On the other hand, the steady increase in diameter of the coils in conical springs enable the larger coils to bottom more gradually under pressure. This means that compressing a conical spring can provide an increased force. The design of conical springs allows you to fit a taller spring in a smaller solid height space, which will also enable you to get more force out of the spring.

You may need to use several different types of springs in the same machine in order to achieve the results you were looking for. Compression springs and conical springs are just two of many types of springs that you can use to enhance the performance of your machine. It can be helpful to know the details of how each type of spring works and their benefits before deciding which one to use. That being said, there are so many advantages to using conical springs that they are definitely worth your consideration no matter what type of machine you design.

Benefits of Thermoplastics in Gasket Kits

 

Science and technology have been changing many industries. Organic materials which can be heated and melted into different forms are known as thermoplastics. When they are in a viscous phase, the materials can be formed into a shape that when cooled has the desired properties. Depending on the composition of the material, thermoplastic items can be flexible like rubber or strong like aluminum. The formula can be made to withstand extreme temperatures, as hot as 600 F or as low as -100 F.

By taking advantage of the different properties which can be attained with thermoplastics, you can create gasket kits which meet your specific requirements. The most common methods of manufacturing thermoplastics are extrusion, thermoforming, and injection molding. The material shapes extremely accurate, which means less waste during manufacturing from imprecise runs. Many times, the mixture of materials can be made at a more affordable cost than if your company chose another formulation. It is important to talk to the manufacturing representative about all the elements of the design that concern you.

Advantages of Using Thermoplastics 

Choosing thermoplastics makes sense in most applications. The material is changing the way gaskets, compressors, and valves are created for today’s heavy equipment. Choosing thermoplastics gives you multiple advantages in manufacturing: 

• Eco-friendly manufacturing and processing 
• High precision in production while maintaining affordability  
• Weight savings over metal parts
• More effective fatigue properties than metal
• Many formulations available to create higher performance items 

Ask About the Possibilities 

Of course, with any material in manufacturing, there are disadvantages. By knowing that thermoplastics degrade when exposed to U.V. lights, both natural and man-made, you can minimize the weaknesses of using thermoplastics in gasket kits. Thermoplastics offer a lightweight and strong alternative to other materials while being cost-effective, which is what is driving the industry. Talk to a supplier who knows the industry to explore how this material fits into your business strategy.

Keep Compressor Parts on Hand

 

Compressed air is used in many different applications; it is both versatile and extremely useful as a power source. Many people use compressed air as part of their work. People in industries such as construction, automotive repair, and maintenance often work with air compressors. You may have a compressor of your own in a home workshop for a variety of crafts and hobbies. Unfortunately, from time to time this equipment needs repair. The potential financial savings you could receive by fixing rather than replacing the machine are more than enough to justify the purchase of Dresser Rand compressor parts. You will then be able to complete the necessary repairs and continue on with your work.

Why are compressors so valuable? Tools that utilize air as a power source typically last longer than other tools; they are usually cooler to operate and do not pose fire and electrical hazards. Compressors are safe for the environment, even when they develop a leak. The machines are easy to use and deliver a high degree of power without tiring the operator. With so many advantages, this type of equipment is found in many work and home workshops.

In order to continue enjoying the use of the compressor, some workshop owners keep a supply of the most useful Dresser Rand compressor parts on hand. This way, they will be able to keep working without unnecessary pauses.

As you consider which Dresser Rand compressor parts to keep on hand, you can look at some of your machine’s identifying characteristics. For example, is your compressor stationary or portable? Do you measure the output in pounds per square inch (psi) or by deliverable cubic feet per minute (CFM)? In some applications, both measurements are taken. Keep this in mind as you look at the parts available to you. Do you often power more than one tool at a time with the compressor? Finally, keep a record of the parts that need to be repaired or replaced most often. This way, you will always have a well-stocked assortment of the parts you need, when you need them.

Replacing the Head Gasket on Your Compressor

 

If your compressor leaks or fails to maintain pressure, it might be time to replace the head gasket. The head gasket provides a tight seal between the cylinder head and the valve plate assembly. Over time, this material deteriorates, allowing pressure to escape from the compressor pump. Handling the delicate gasket over multiple service calls also creates wear and tear on its surface.

Safety First!

Before you service your compressor, you must depressurize the tank. Open the drain valve and wait until all of the pressure has been removed. Also, verify that the electrical power has been shut off.

Remove the Old Head Gasket

First, remove the manifold cover by unscrewing the retaining screw. Lift the cover and locate the bolts securing the front and rear of the pump assembly. Detach the bolts so you can move the pump assembly off to the side.

Next, remove the retaining screws that secure the pump’s housing and slide the pump partially out of the housing. Using a pair of pliers, disconnect the front and rear wires, and unplug the ground wire. Once everything is separated, you should be able to pull the entire pump assembly out of the housing.

Using a socket wrench, unscrew the bolts from the assembly so you can separate the pump from the cylinder head. Remove the old gasket and eliminate any residual pieces of gasket material that may be stuck to the cylinder. A smooth surface is required so the new gasket will seal properly.

Put it Back Together

Align the new head gasket with the valve plate assembly. Be sure to seat the gasket against the side of the valve plate that has the exposed valves. Assemble the cylinder head and re-install the head bolts. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for torque specifications.

Now you can re-connect the pump assembly and slide it into the housing. Once the housing is assembled, secure it onto the tank with the screws, and install the manifold cover. Now you are ready to work under pressure!