Air compressors are one of the most important devices in any industry where compressed gas is used, from refrigeration to the production of industrial gases.
However, there are instances when it can lead to a phenomenon known as compressor ‘chill’ which is the result of water vaporizing inside the machine when it gets too cold outside.
This can happen because the temperature of the air going into the compressor is lower than the surrounding air, causing the moisture in the air to condense and freeze. In some cases, this can even cause the compressor to malfunction.
There are several ways to prevent this from happening, such as keeping the compressor well-insulated or using a pre-cooler to cool the air before it enters the compressor. In some cases, it may also be necessary to use a dehumidifier.
If you do experience compressor ‘chill’, the best course of action is to thaw out the machine and then take steps to prevent it from happening again in the future.
The conservation of energy is another way to think about it. When the air was first compressed, it required energy, and as a result, the newly compressed air grew heated. The cooled pressurized air then returns to room temperature.
So, energy was applied to the air in compressing it, which caused it to get warmer and then lost to the environment as heat. The air, on the other hand, has been compressed even more.
When it comes out of the can, it expands, but this requires energy, which it takes from its own thermal energy (because the energy originally used to compress it has been lost to the surroundings) lowering its temperature.
Disclosure: Some of the links below may be affiliate links.
How do I keep my air compressor from freezing?
If you live in a climate where winter temperatures can dip below freezing, it’s important to take steps to prevent your air compressor from freezing. One way to do this is to keep the compressor on and running continuously.
This will ensure that the heat is constantly being emitted instead of just sporadically. Additionally, this will give the oil in the compressor time to warm up before coming into contact with cold outdoor air, preventing it from freezing as well.
Make sure that your air compressor is properly insulated. This will help to keep it warm and prevent it from freezing up.
Keep it in a warm environment if possible. If you live in an area where the temperature gets very cold, consider keeping your air compressor in a garage or shed that is heated.
Finally, be sure to keep an eye on the temperature gauge and shut off the compressor if it starts to get too cold. By following these simple steps, you can prevent your air compressor from freezing and ensure that it lasts for years to come.
Following these tips will help keep your air compressor working properly all winter long.
Note: you should pay special attention to your air compressor when you keep it pressurized, learn more in this blog post.
How Low Temperatures can affect an air compressor?
As the temperature drops, the air density increases. This means that for a given volume of air, there are more molecules present and therefore the air is more compressed.
The increased density causes the compressor to work harder to achieve the same level of output as it would at higher temperatures. The increased compression can lead to increased wear on the compressor components and can eventually result in failure.
In addition, the colder temperatures can cause condensation to form inside the compressor which can lead to corrosion. And corrosion can do more harm, as it can block many things and increases the friction between the different parts, and weakens the strength of the metal.
Even if your compressor oil does not freeze, the condensate from the compressor is susceptible to freezing in low temperatures because it is mostly water. The condensation on your compressor might grow to ice and affect how the system works wherever it gathers.
When a liquid freezes, it expands. When condensate ice forms in your pipes or within a single component of the system, it might be thick enough to push on the structure’s walls. This pressure may cause bowing, cracks, or holes if the ice is kept frozen for long periods of time.
