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Leak
An air compressor leak is an unintended loss of compressed air from your system into the surrounding environment in a way that is not planned or desired. In other words, if you hear hissing or observe pressure drops, you are likely dealing with an air leak.
Leaks are among the most common problems associated with air compressors. Usually caused by damage or wear and tear, a leak can escape from nearly any part of the system, reducing the compressor’s efficiency, wasting energy and increasing operating costs.
Thankfully, leaks are relatively easy to detect and repair, especially when you contact a Quincy Compressor representative to learn about our leak detection and repair program.
FAQs
Compressed air leaks are a significant source of wasted energy for those in the industrial sector, potentially squandering 20% to 30% of a compressor’s output.
When an air compressor leaks air, it can have numerous operational and financial impacts on your business:
- Decreased air tool function, affecting production
- Shortened lifespan of all system parts and equipment
- Additional maintenance and repair requirements
- Increased risk of unscheduled downtime
- Unnecessary capacity addition to compensate for the leaks
- Increased energy consumption
- Higher electricity and maintenance costs
A pneumatic system leak can occur anywhere in the broader compressed air network — including but not limited to the many parts that make an air compressor function. Some of the most common causes include:
- Worn-out parts, such as O-rings, valve seals and other components
- Loose fittings and connections
- Corrosion or cracks in hoses, tubes or intake vents
- External damage from equipment being bumped
- Operator error, such as leaving a valve open
- A faulty tank check valve
Air leaks are virtually impossible to see, so you must use other techniques to locate this issue. The most effective way to detect leaks is to connect with our network of professional and knowledgeable air experts to schedule a leak audit. A certified technician can use an acoustic imaging camera to detect leaks faster than traditional methods.
Other techniques for identifying air compressor leaks include:
- Using your hand to feel for the stream of air
- Listening for the hiss of air escaping
- Applying a thin layer of liquid soap around connections, as holes will produce bubbles
You can use a simple formula to estimate the amount of leakage in terms of percentage. First, follow these steps for compressors that use start and stop controls:
- Turn off all tools and machines using compressed air. This means the only air leaving the system is through leaks.
- Watch your compressor. It will build up pressure and unload when the pressure is high enough.
- If leaks are present, the compressor will cycle on and off as the pressure drops.
- Measure how long the compressor is on in minutes.
- Then, measure how long it is off during these cycles.
With these measurements, you can calculate the total leakage using this formula:
Leakage (%) = [(T x 100) / (T + t)]
- T = on-load time (minutes)
- t = off-load time (minutes)
In a well-maintained compressed air system, less than 10% of the air produced by the compressor should be lost through leaks. If your system is losing more than that, it may be time to contact your local Quincy Compressor service provider.
Additional Resources
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