Thread: Outside Compressor

That's a bit cold for continuous compressor operation.
The sorts of temps I have seen start at about +5ºC up to about +30ºC as being the best operating range.
The main problem will be to use compressor oil that suits your temp rang

Other things that you could do is
Wrap some low wattage heater types around it that you fire up for 1/2 hour before starting the compressor.
If it was fully enclosed you could install a couple of 100W incandescent lamps inside the enclosure to use like the heater tapes.
Too tightly enclosed may lead to over heating.
That's my main problem in summer.
I use a 100mm x 240V computer style fan in a false ceiling of the enclosure that fire up when the compressor fires up and draws from outside through a snorkel.
Snorkel1.jpg

More super nerdy detail here
Humidity measurements in compressed air
Some experimentation will be required.

I am puzzled as to why -4C is a problem, certainy the oil be be a little thicker but beyond that?

Originally Posted by Chris Parks

I am puzzled as to why -4C is a problem, certainy the oil be be a little thicker but beyond that?

Some details here
Optimal Temperature Range for Compressed Air Equipment - Fluid-Aire Dynamics
I guess they're also referring to industrial situations - would be less of an issue for small scale or DIY operations.

If there is water anywhere in the system it could freeze. The effects could range from nothing to splitting components. Unlikely possibility but still possible.

Pete

Ok, I had read about risk of freezing condensation inside components causing issues. But nothing I read had said while running/while sitting. To be honest It will never be running while it is -4.......That's a little too enthusiastic for me.
My landlord however has said I can use the Hay shed on the back of the stables to store it.
It's only a decade old, reasonably shielded. only a couple of metres from the shed and they don't use it for anything.
Now I just need to get the thing wired up and in place.

Thanks for the replies