CHAPTER 8 AIR COMPRESSOR OVERHAUL

CAUTION

THE OPERATION OF AIR COMPRESSORS IS DANGEROUS!!!! The chance of fatal injury is high. High pressure air escaping from air valves during testing or normal operation is of such a high pitch sound that PERMANENT EAR INJURY AND HEARING LOSS ARE A DIRECT RESULT. High pressure air can CUT THROUGH THE SKIN, DESTROY TISSUE, CAUSE AIR EMBOLISM, AND DEATH.

Air compressors are used throughout the Naval (fig. 8-1) and air compressor controls. In these systems Construction Force (NCF). They supply compressed air the compressor may be smaller than others described in for numerous pneumatic tools, rock drilling, well this chapter, but the operating principles are the same. drilling, diving, and cleaning operations. Certain As a CM-1, it is your job to make sure these units are automotive and construction equipment use air-brake maintained properly and to troubleshoot, repair, and systems in which you will find an air compressor overhaul them. In the Construction Mechanic 3 & 2,

Figure 8-1. - Typical reciprocating air compressor used in vehicular air-brake systems.