Compressor Introduction

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Revision as of 23:53, 21 March 2018 by Lukas (talk | contribs) (practical demo)

This is the content required for an introduction to our compressor - reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a tutor! It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)

Let's begin! First off, make sure you have read the machine's manual.

Safety

Dangers

  • parts of the machine may become hot during operation
  • the machine will not stay off if it has stopped due to a loss of power and the power is restored (blackout, blown fuse, pulled plug)
  • compressed air is generated which holds many dangers
    • small parts and dirt can fly towards you when blasted
    • the airstream can damage eyes, ears and other sensible organs
    • blowing air into certain shapes of holes or recesses can generate an unhealthy amount of noise
    • a bubble of air in the bloodstream can kill you
    • filling unsuitable containers with compressed air can cause them to explode

Precautions

  • to avoid burns, don't touch any motor parts if the compressor is or has been running in the last 15 minutes (see photo "half red")
  • don't turn the machine off by pulling the plug - press the orange button instead
  • wear well-fitting goggles and ear defenders
  • wear gloves if you need to blow air at something you are holding
  • do not point any air tools and nozzles at yourself or other people - we have a shop vac for cleaning!
  • do not use if you have any open wounds
  • do not fill any containers (tires etc.) if they appear damaged, and never above their pressure rating

Practical Demonstration

  • connecting and disconnecting the couplings
  • setting a defined pressure, e.g. 4 bar for bike tires or the blast cabinet

Further Reading