Factors contributing to the formation of carbon deposits in air compressors
1. High temperature: High temperature is the decisive factor causing oxidation and deterioration of lubricating oil. The higher the temperature, the faster the oxidation rate, and the greater the possibility of forming carbon deposits;
2. Pressure: After the air is compressed by the air compressor, the pressure increases and the oxygen concentration increases, which increases the oxidation rate of the oil and the possibility of carbon deposition;
3. Metal catalysis: Metals play a positive catalytic role in oxidation reactions, accelerating the progress of the reaction;
4. The type of air compressor oil: The quality and dosage of air compressor oil will have varying degrees of influence on the formation of carbon deposits.
Most air compressor explosion accidents are caused by the accumulation of carbon deposits. Carbon deposits are high-temperature products, but they can also self ignite at high temperatures. The spontaneous ignition temperature of carbon deposits is usually around 180 ℃, and the outlet temperature of the air compressor during operation is generally not higher than 160 ℃. Therefore, under normal operation, carbon deposits will not be ignited. However, when the air compressor experiences instantaneous high temperature or high pressure due to certain faults, the temperature inside the compressor rises sharply, causing carbon deposits to self ignite, causing the oil inside the carbon deposits to rapidly vaporize. When vaporized oil and gas coexist with high concentrations of oxygen and high temperatures in compressed air, it can cause compressor explosions and accidents.