5 Easy Tips For Garage Air Compressor Setup

For the modern auto repair shop, compressed air systems are critical, valuable tools. Compressed air setups are employed daily for high-pressure cleaning, powering pneumatic equipment, inflation, and pressure washing.

Auto shops need a compressed air system to perform a multitude of fundamental tasks properly. However, selecting and configuring a compressed air system is not always simple. In the following content, we explore design tips for compressed air systems, helping you prepare the best shop air compressor setup for your shop’s success.

Select the Right Compressor: Where Should You Start?

As with most tools used in the automotive shop, not all air compressors are created equal! There are many different types of shop air compressors with varying applications, features, and specifications. Understanding your air compressor needs will help narrow down the type of system you should purchase.

There are a number of different shop air compressor setups and configurations. The best setup for your shop will depend on the type of work you do, what features or applications you want to use, and how much money you have to spend.

A few additional considerations include capacity, piping configuration, mounting location, and noise levels. We’ll dive into each of these factors below!

1. Air Compressor Capacity

Consider the capacity requirements of your compressor with these questions:

  • What will the compressor power?
  • How will the compressor itself receive power?
  • How many technicians will be utilizing the compressor at the same time?

Small reciprocating units and oil-flooded rotary screw compressors are two of the most common systems found in automotive shops, each suited for varying capacities.

Jarrett Affolter, a product specialist at Ingersoll Rand, suggests:

Generally, small reciprocating units are ideal for small service shops with intermittent tool use, but they can also power large equipment, such as a vehicle lift. Rotary screw compressors are designed for shops that use compressed air continuously and need more power than a reciprocating unit can support. A rotary screw compressor is ideal for larger shops with more than three service technicians and can support several tools and equipment running all at once.

As the name implies, small reciprocating units are best for most small service shops and have the capacity to post large equipment, if needed. However, if a multitude of tools needs to be powered simultaneously and continuously, the rotary screw compressor is the best option. Large, busy shops with significant capacity requirements often employ rotary compressors.

2. Determining Compressor Size

Once you’ve selected the best compressor model for your shop’s daily activities, you must choose the right size. For example, do you need a compressor with a 10 horsepower rating and a 100-gallon tank?

As a rule of thumb, add 10% to the amount of power needed to fuel your everyday demands. Purchasing just above your exact requirement ensures you always have enough power, even in emergent or unusual situations.

3. Piping Configuration

The compressed air system also needs a way to transport compressed air from the compressor to the individual tools. This is accomplished with piping. Whether you are expanding your shop and purchasing brand new compressed air systems or simply upgrading or rearranging your current setup, piping is one of the most important details.

Piping is often arranged based on how much pressure it’s designed for and whether or not any additional functions are desired. For example, some compressed air systems use a combination of pipes (or hoses) for compressed air and liquid coolant.

4. Air Compressor Mounting Location

Once you have selected the right air compressor system for your needs, select the best place to mount it.

Air compressors should be mounted in a convenient location for the compressed air to reach all areas of the facility. Some auto shops choose to install the compressor near an outside wall. If compressed air needs to run long distances, consider having parallel runs from the compressor to compressed air outlets.

Ultimately, the best mounting location will depend on the layout of your auto shop.

5. Air Compressor Noise Levels and Decibels

Most air compressors are designed to produce less than 70 decibels, which is below the threshold for hearing damage. However, at this noise level, communication near the compressor can be stunted, and older compressors can be even louder. These tips can help muffle the noise:

  • Build a soundproof enclosure around the compressor
  • Plumb the intake remotely
  • Move the compressor to a less populated area of the shop

Additional Air Compressor Safety Considerations

Beyond noise, a few additional safety concerns must be considered before installing your air compressor.

  • Compressed airlines should be routed away from any areas where there is the potential for a spark of flame
  • Plumbing must not come in contact with compressed air piping at any time during installation or operation, and fittings that connect compressed pipe to other types of pipes (such as water) need an enclosed connection system
  • Do not use compressed air piping for compressed gas lines
  • Compressed air systems require regular maintenance to keep them in the best operating condition possible, and should be serviced by a trained professional at least once every six months or as often as needed according to your site’s usage

How Much Do Air Compressors Cost?

The cost of an air compressor depends on many factors, such as size and type. There is also a tradeoff between initial purchase cost and energy efficiency. Often, larger machines are less efficient than smaller ones, because they require more power to operate.

In general, however, a small compressed air system for a typical workshop is less than $1,000. Larger systems may cost tens of thousands of dollars and require significant installation space.

SVI International: Compressed Air System Product Supplier

Once you’ve taken the time to purchase and design a compressed air system for your auto shop, maintaining that system is the next step.

Identifying a high-quality, reliable compressed air system product supplier is not as complicated as picking the best compressor for your shop – at SVI International, we are proud of our expansive, trusted compressed air system product supply. A team member would be happy to discuss how our products could meet the needs of your automotive shop. To get in touch, call (800) 321-8173 or complete our online contact form. We look forward to starting a conversation!

Car Lift Hydraulic Cylinder Repair: Complete Guide

The hydraulic cylinder on your auto lift is arguably your hardest working component. As such, the cylinder will not be able to perform at its best if not kept clean and free from damage. Doing regular maintenance and examinations is the best way to save your money for repairs or replacement and by reducing downtime and eliminating interruptions to your work from malfunctions. However, after a certain amount of time, you may notice signs of deterioration or improper function where repairs are now inevitable. Find out how to identify common reasons for hydraulic cylinder failure and tips on how to proceed with repair.

Common Indicators of Repair

Leaking Cylinder

You might have heard the term cylinder bypass to refer to a leaking hydraulic cylinder. A leaking cylinder is an easily identifiable problem, but there could be several causes. Likely, the piston seals are worn, and their effectiveness have decreased greatly. Leaking can also result from damage to any of the internal parts, particularly the barrel or piston. Things like loose bearings, neighboring broken hydraulic components getting into the cylinder, or parts plagued with dirt and debris will also fail to prevent leaking.

Damaged Piston Rod

Any cracks, dents, rust, scratches, or other damage to your piston rod need to be addressed, otherwise your cylinder might suddenly fail. If the piston rod suffers significant damage, it creates more work for the hydraulic cylinder, eventually causing it to buckle or break. Make sure you test the piston rod to ensure it is strong enough and check if it is properly aligned within the cylinder. These precautionary actions are worth looking over to stop your cylinder from being overworked and repairs from becoming costlier.

Cylinder Mountings Are Not Secure

If mountings on the cylinder are not secure, pressure from your hydraulic system can escape. Fixed mountings should keep bolts in place and therefore should not move. On the other hand, pivot mountings need enough lubrication to operate correctly, and if too worn, they will become misaligned and in need of replacement.

While these issues are a main cause for repair, not every problem can be easily identified. Having a skilled technician with the right knowledge inspect your hydraulic cylinder often serves as the best way to discover the root cause. Get a professional involved so you can perform the correct repair or identify when full replacement might be the best choice. Even though a full replacement may sound like the most expensive option, making a series of incorrect repairs that do not resolve the underlying problem will end up adding up quickly.

Tips on How to Repair a Hydraulic Cylinder

Cylinder repair conditions change depending on the type of cylinder, and what type of repair is needed.  In a pinch, doing a repair on your own can save money, but here are some important things you will need to know.

  • Great preparation will set you up for success. If tackling a repair on your own, you will need a large enough workspace, the right tools, cleaning products, and safety precautions. Large cylinders often have some bounce back that can catch an amateur off guard if not prepared. If you feel unequipped to handle the repair safely, consider getting help from an experienced technician.
  • Your screwdriver can be your enemy. Lots of care is needed when working with hydraulic cylinders. You may be able to complete the task, but all it takes is a simple scratch from a screwdriver to erase all the work you just did. Since hydraulic cylinders cannot be damaged at risk of creating a new problem, a workspace where you have enough room to keep components separate and clean is absolutely essential.
  • Repeated repairs mean there is a bigger problem. Having a professional on hand will ensure the root of the problem is discovered with a thorough inspection. If you are removing a cylinder to make a repair, do not waste the opportunity to check for damage or other imperfections.
  • Check for proper seal size the right way. Before you order a new seal, you need to order the correct size. You can do this by measuring your current seal, but the size can be impacted from constant machine operation or poor installation. Measuring the grooves where the seals sit will provide a more accurate result. For more about seal replacement, you can consult this guide.

Repairing a hydraulic cylinder is literally a messy job, sometimes to save time or to keep your hands clean, it is best to leave the work in the hands of a professional. If uncertain of how to move forward, getting a skilled technician involved could shed some light on the bigger issue.

SVI International: Connecting You with High Quality Automotive Equipment

If ever in doubt about what parts you need to complete a maintenance repair or replacement of your hydraulic cylinder, SVI International is always here to help. As a leader in repair parts for automotive lifts, you can always expect a prompt delivery from one of our three warehouses across the United States. Reach out to us at (800) 321-8173 or complete ouronline contact form. Ask us about specialty hydraulic cylinders if customized needs are required for your job.

Hydraulic Cylinder Seal Replacement Procedure

The workhorse of your automotive lifts, hydraulic cylinders are devices that use fluid pressure to generate force and movement. Over time, continual use of your lift can cause wear and tear on the components which can hinder the performance of your equipment.

The internal seals on your hydraulic cylinders are one common weak component that experiences wear, buildup of debris, and other issues. This guide will show you the steps needed to replace your seals so you don’t have any troubles with leakage.

What You Should Know Before Working on Your Hydraulic Cylinder

Before proceeding with the process, it is necessary to understand the possible causes of hydraulic cylinder seal failure and to be equipped with the right tools and experience should you attempt to try the replacement yourself. For the large majority, having a trusted professional do the repair will save lots of hassle and worry of safety concerns.

There will always be at least one seal found on the hydraulic cylinder. They can be installed on either the end of the cylinder body, or at the end of the rod. Check that you have the correct parts for your hydraulic cylinders as different cylinders require different seal kits. You can confirm you have the correct parts by referencing the old parts or reviewing an owner’s manual.

Once you have everything you need, you are ready to fix your seal.

Preparation

Find a clean space appropriate for hydraulic cylinder maintenance. Make sure you have plenty of space to store cleaned parts so they can remain free from debris.

Have tools ready such as protective gear, a screwdriver, pliers, wrenches, emery clothes, a mallet or hammer, and a seal kit.

Clean surfaces of cylinders that will be sealed so all traces of dirt and fluid are removed. Check for any imperfections that could cause leaks and smooth over any rough patches.

Replacement

Loosen the hoses from the point of connection with the cylinder body. This releases the pressure from the cylinder. Work on one cylinder at a time.

Carefully remove the cylinder from the lines and ensure its weight is supported so it does not get damaged or cause injury.

Remove the piston rod then remove the lock nut to unscrew the piston and remove it from the cylinder.

Take the time to ensure the rod and cylinder are kept completely clean and placed on a clean surface where parts are not coming into contact with one another. These extra steps can prevent any costly damage to the components of the cylinder.

Keep parts in order to ease reassembly process. If it helps, take a photo for reference. This can also help when replacing the seals in the next few steps.

To prevent confusion, replace seals one a time. Pay attention to what kind of seal is being used and identify the correct replacement part. Fit the new seals in the exact same position that was previously used. Once again check for any dirt on the seal groove before replacing the part.

Reverse the process of removing the cylinder by starting with re-fitting the piston and securing it back into the cylinder body. Reconnect the cylinder to the hydraulic lines and remove any additional dirt or fluid created from the reassembly.

Testing

After the replacement is complete, operate the machine as normal. Check that all connections are secure throughout. No fluid should be escaping from the cylinder. If all looks good, then your replacement is complete.

Beyond Hydraulic Cylinder Maintenance

Replacing a broken seal is a smart way to perform preventative maintenance on your hydraulic cylinder, but at times it might just be a temporary fix. That is why it is always best to know how to diagnose any underlying causes so that these repairs do not become a reoccurring issue. One of the most common causes for a leaking hydraulic cylinder is broken or worn-out seals, but at times, a repair will not be enough. Sometimes fixing the issue, not the seal, will provide the best long-term solution, and a full part replacement might be needed to save you time and money.

SVI International: Connecting You with High Quality Automotive Equipment

If ever in doubt about how to replace hydraulic cylinder seals, what parts you need to complete a maintenance repair, or replacement tips, SVI International is always here to help. As a leader in repair parts for automotive lifts, you can always expect a prompt delivery from one of our three warehouses across the United States. Reach out to us at (800) 321-8173 or complete our online contact form. Ask us about specialty hydraulic cylinders if customized needs are required for your job.