Exam Question
Give reasons and remedies for the following faults in air compressors.
(a) Excessively hot discharge pipe. (5)
(b) Intermediate stage relief valve lifting. (5)
(c) Noticeable reduction in free air delivery (6)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
MEP
📅 Aug 2025
Reference Answer
### (a) Excessively Hot Discharge Pipe (5 Marks)
An excessively hot final stage discharge pipe indicates a fault in either the cooling system or the compression process itself, leading to temperatures exceeding the normal range of 150-180°C. This is a critical issue as it can lead to lubrication oil breakdown, carbonisation on valves, and an increased risk of an air line explosion.
**Reasons and Remedies:**
1. **Inefficient Cooling:**
An excessively hot final stage discharge pipe indicates a fault in either the cooling system or the compression process itself, leading to temperatures exceeding the normal range of 150-180°C. This is a critical issue as it can lead to lubrication oil breakdown, carbonisation on valves, and an increased risk of an air line explosion.
**Reasons and Remedies:**
1. **Inefficient Cooling:**
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