Do not neglect air compressor maintenance—the consequences can be severe.

I. Why Must Air Compressor Components Be Replaced on Schedule?​

The stable operation of screw air compressors hinges on the “health status” of core components—lubricants, filters, and other parts gradually wear out, become clogged, or fail over extended use. Neglecting replacements not only reduces unit efficiency and drives up energy consumption but may also trigger severe malfunctions, ultimately leading to costly repairs or even complete unit failure.​

Timely replacement may seem like a “small investment,” but it is crucial for avoiding “major losses” later and remains the core secret to extending the air compressor's lifespan.

II. Core Component Replacement Standards (Including Intervals + Special Cases)

1. Oil Filter: The “Guardian” of the Unit's Lubrication System

Basic Replacement Interval: Must be replaced after the initial 500 hours of operation; Subsequent replacements every 1500 operating hours.

Core Function: Filters impurities and metal debris from oil, preventing lubrication system blockages and protecting main bearings and rotors.

2. Oil-Air Separator (Fine Oil Separator): The “Purity Key” for Compressed Air

Basic Replacement Cycle: Replace around 3500 hours under normal operating conditions.

Mandatory Replacement Signal: Immediately shut down for inspection/replacement when the unit indicator light illuminates or oil pressure exceeds normal operating values.

Special Precautions: Ensure a clean operating environment during replacement. Prevent foreign objects from entering the oil drum, as this directly impacts compressor operational precision and may cause host damage.

Environmental Adaptation: In dusty or humid environments, shorten the replacement cycle by 20%-30%.

3. Air Filter: The “First Line of Defense” for the Unit's Intake System

Basic Replacement Cycle: Clean or replace promptly after accumulating 1000 operating hours, or when the unit prompts for replacement.

Environmental Adaptation: In dusty or poor air quality environments, shorten usage intervals (recommended inspection every 500-800 hours; replace immediately if severely contaminated).

Core Function: Filters airborne particulates to prevent contaminants from entering the main unit, reducing rotor wear and internal carbon buildup.

4. Pre-filter: “Pretreatment safeguard” for compressed air

Cleaning/Replacement Cycle: Must be cleaned every 10 days; in harsh environments (e.g., construction sites, mines), shorten to every 3-5 days to prevent clogging and maintain intake efficiency.

5. Lubricating Oil (Air Compressor Oil): The “Blood” of the Unit

Basic Replacement Cycle: Replace after approximately 500 initial operating hours; thereafter, replace every 3000 hours.

Core Function: Lubricates, cools, and seals main unit components. Failure to replace degraded oil promptly leads to increased friction and abnormal temperature rises in the main unit.

III. The Consequences of Neglecting Replacement Are Worse Than You Think!

Many users delay replacing parts to save a little money or avoid hassle—but this “gambling mentality” often comes at a much higher cost:

Filter clogging → Restricted air intake/oil discharge → Increased unit load → Energy consumption rises by over 30%;

Degraded lubricant → Accelerated host wear → Bearing failure, rotor seizure → Repair costs exceeding parts cost by 10 times;

Failed oil-air separator → Excessive oil content in compressed air → Impact on downstream equipment/product quality → Production losses.

Instead of spending heavily on repairs later, replace parts on schedule to safeguard stable unit operation at minimal cost.