I inherited 3 sites each with multiple sprinkler systems (2 or 3 depending) on "plant air". The problem is the compressors assigned to deliver said plant air are only robust enough to air up a single component system within 30 minutes.
During the fall, we experience drastic temperature drops at dusk that result in pressure drops across all systems simultaneously, that effectually over-task the lone compressor at each site. The compressors run until the overtemperature cut-off pops, and they've been leaking oil from the head gasket due to overheating. I'm perfectly willing to buy a $5k compressor, but they're typically 3 phase. I'm also willing to buy 2 or 3 small compressors/riser and cap the plant air line, but in either case the greater expense is running AC power to the risers, or upgrading the current plant air circuit voltage. A permutation of the above 2 options would be to run 2 -$700 compressors in parallel at the current plant air site to split the CFM output requirement. I would have to run a 2nd dedicated circuit to the existing compressor locations, but it's in relatively close proximity to the panel. To do so I am assuming I would need to wire the on/off pressure switches to an air maintenance device. I need them to come on and cut off at the same time, or else one will run to failure, the pressure bleed down, then the redundant compressor will run to failure. I'm worried that modifying the new compressors will void their warranties (which I acknowledge I may have to live with). Does anyone have a diagram and parts list for how to use 2 compressors in tandem? Any recommendations for most pragmatic fix? Thanks in advance. Posted anonymously for discussion. Discuss This | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
8 Comments
Dan Wilder
11/24/2020 10:21:40 am
First, if your systems are losing that much air, even with the temp difference, that should be your priority not the band-aid of trying to keep up with the leaks.
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John Rasmussen
11/24/2020 10:37:36 am
Agree strongly with eliminating leaks and adding air receiver tank. Also, what pressure do you maintain in the fire sprinkler system? Typically dry valve systems only need 30 psi and plant air will be 100+ psi. If your sprinkler system air pressure is too high it will leak worse and load compressors more.
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Pete D
11/24/2020 11:44:39 am
Reliable Model D w/ 105psi city water. I think the regulators are set a little high at 40psi, which is the next line of the table. System volumes are unknown (let's say big). All systems have B-1 accelerators, so we can safely assume >750 gallons, but I think they may be as big as 1500 gal.
Mike F.
11/24/2020 10:38:45 am
Talk to the guys at General Air Products!
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Kelsey
11/24/2020 10:48:04 am
I second this!
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Thanks for the call out. We are always happy to help with questions like this. Pete D. my email is [email protected], while I understand you are using a Speedair compressor, I can still offer assistance on the set up if you like. Reach out and we can discuss.
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Mark Harris
11/24/2020 08:07:20 pm
Agree with everything said above but if you really want two compressors I would use tank compressors and put check valves on discharge piping of each compressor and then a listed air maintenance device on each system. The check valves should keep the start stop on the two compressors from fighting each other. But just the extra tank suggested above could be more cost effective.
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Pete D.
11/24/2020 08:18:24 pm
Thanks Mark. Not leaking anywhere to my knowledge.
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