HSO 2024 to HSO 2035 Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual
Page 52 of 94
Publication 2-119
Issue 1.2 : 03/10
11.
Running-In the Compressor
These procedures are carried out during the plant’s first 200 hours of
operation. Depending on circumstances, this time period may need to be
extended.
11.1.
Filters and Strainers
Refrigerant tends to have a scouring effect on the internal surfaces of the
system. Despite the utmost care taken during manufacture, dirt, scale,
grit and other extraneous material are released, especially during the
early life of a new plant. It is essential not to add to the dirt burden, which
is why attention to cleanliness is so important during installation and
erection.
Apart from the compressor suction strainer (see next heading), change
filters and clean strainers at the end of 200 operating hours; refer to 11.1.
Filters and Strainers.
11.2.
Compressor Suction Strainer
To prevent an excessive accumulation of dirt in the suction strainer,
which would reduce the compressor’s pumping efficiency, it is important
to remove and clean the strainer basket during the plant’s initial period of
operation; suggested intervals are after 12 compressor operating hours
and again at the end of 200 hours. If the strainer is partially choked with
dirt when first cleaned, indicating that the system is particularly dirty, an
additional cleaning after 100 hours may be necessary.
If the suction strainer has provision to fit a felt filter or separate suction
filter, it is recommended to use this additional cleaning aid for the first 100
compressor operating hours.
After the commissioning period, clean the suction strainer annually, or at
intervals of 5,000 operating hours, whichever is the sooner.
11.3.
Oil Filter
Renew the oil filter element at the end of 200 compressor operating
hours. If the system is very large or particularly dirty, it may be necessary
to fit a new filter element before 200 operating hours are completed.
The pressure drop across the oil filter is a good indicator as to the
condition of the filter element. If the oil filter pressure drop exceeds the
clean filter pressure drop plus 1.4 bar, change the element.
11.4.
Refrigerant Filter/Drier
Not usually applicable to plants charged with ammonia (R717), applicable
to all other refrigerants.
Renew the filter/drier cores at the end of 200 plant operating hours. If
available, cores having high acid retention properties should be used.
11.5.
Monitoring for Moisture
Not usually applicable to plants charged with ammonia (R717), applicable
to all other refrigerants.
Check the refrigerant sight-glass/moisture indicator on a regular basis
during the first 12 plant operating hours, and occasionally over the next
100 hours. If there is evidence of moisture, immediate steps must be
taken to remove the moisture by changing the filter/drier cores. In any
case, fit new cores at the end of the first 200 operating hours.
11.6.
Lubricating Oil
At the end of the first 200 compressor operating hours, drain off a sample
of oil for analysis. Unless there is evidence of excessive contamination,
there is no need to change the oil at this time.
Check the oil level in the oil separator/reservoir on a regular basis,
preferably once every day.
Not
applicable to plants charged with ammonia (R717), applicable to all
other refrigerants.
