To : Chief Engr. Zosimo C. Sionil Jr.

Training Manager
Arctic Shipping Corporation – Training Department

CC : Chief Engr. Nino Mhelbert R. Nuez

Engine Instructor

CC : Engr. Kirby E. Dadole

Engine Instructor

Date : August 10, 2021

Subject: Main Air Compressor

Main air compressor

It is used to supply highly pressurized air to start main and secondary engines. Air compressor has
an air storage bottle which stores the pressurized air. There are available different capacity main air
compressors, but this capacity should be adequate for starting the main engine. The minimum air
pressure required is 30 bars to start the main engine. A pressure valve is provided which reduces
pressure and supplies controlled air from the storage air bottle. The control air filter controls the
input as well as output air in the air bottle.
 

How to start the air compressor manually on ships ?

1. Change the switch to manual position on the switch board.

2. Check the L.O sump level and condition.
3. Open the moisture drain valve.
4. Open the compressor discharge valve & charging valve of air bottle.
5. Open cooling water system valves.
6. Turn the compressor flywheel by hand (one turn).
7. Start the motor, after draining the moisture shut the drain valve.
8. Check the motor ampere consumed.
9. Check the pressure gauge readings.
10. Frequently drain the moisture.
11. When charging full, open drain valve and stop the compressor

What are the safety devices in air compressors on ships ?

1. Bursting discs are fitted on the cooler shells (At water side).
2. Relief valves are fitted to discharge side for every stages.
3. Moisture drain valve (unloader) are fitted at each cooler side.
4. Cooling water failure alarm.
5. Low L. O pressure alarm and trip.
6. Delivery air high temperature alarm on after cooler outlet (Max 93° C)

What are the normal parameters of air compressor ?

 LP discharge pressure: 4 bars
 HP discharge pressure: 30 bars.
 Intercooler inlet air temperature: 130 ° C
 Intercooler outlet air temperature: 35 °  C
 After cooler inlet air temperature: 130 ° C
 After cooler outlet air temperature: 35 °  C