Top tips to keep your pneumatic tools in top condition

Compressed Air and Pneumatic Tools

The most significant element in the efficient operation, performance and life expectancy of pneumatic tools is air quality and the greatest enemy of pneumatic tooling is moisture.

As air is compressed heat is generated and as a result accumulated water becomes a vapour. As the hot moist air leaves the compressor it expands and rapidly starts to cool, when it reaches the air tool the vapour then condenses to water.

The number one cause of deterioration and failure in industrial pneumatic tools and related equipment are water-related issues.

As water vapour is always present in compressed air, moisture control is imperative.

Compressed air is dirty. An air compressor will suck in vast quantities of air; air which is contaminated with grit and dust particulates. The intake filter on air compressors traps much of that debris, but some always gets through.

As the air compressor pumps, that still-dirty air is forced into the receiver tank. From there, it travels through the outlet valve on the compressor to the air-line, and into an air tool.

Dirty compressed air acts as an abrasive, wearing inner components of pneumatic tools.

Installing compressed air filters to trap airborne liquid and solid contaminants will ensure compressed air delivered is as clean and dry as possible.

We recommend the installation of the SMC AW-20 Air Regulator with water trap at the air delivery valve, this will contribute to prolong the life expectancy of pneumatic tooling.

Please email us for specifications and pricing.

Follow these simple tips to keep your pneumatic tools in top condition:

• Oil your tools regularly.
  • Squeeze 4-5 drops of pneumatic tool oil into the air inlet coupling at the start of the work day. Cycle the tool briefly to allow the oil run through the internals of the tool.
  • If the tool is used all day, oil mid-way through the work day.
  • At the end of the work day put 4-5 drops of pneumatic oil into the tool, via the air inlet coupling as the extra oil will protect its interior metal components from any residual moisture accumulated during the day. Cycle the tool briefly to allow the oil run through the internals of the tool.
  • Use only mineral-based, low viscosity oil. DO NOT substitute for motor oil or other oils that may contain solvents or detergents that can damage the internal components of pneumatic tools.
  • It is very important to not over-lubricate your pneumatic tools as this may also damage them.
• Operate tools at their recommended air pressure. The recommended pressure for most pneumatics is between 90 and 100 psi. Exceeding air pressure can lead to deterioration of the internal components.
• Completely service tools at least once per year.
• Ensure all tools and implements are thoroughly cleaned and correctly stored at the end of each work day.
• Only use air hoses which are rated for compressed air use. Unrated hose can crack, break and whip around, resulting in injuries or property damage.

Correct use of tools ensures their longevity and a consistently optimum repair preparation.

The following tips regarding tool usage will assist in achieving these goals:

Avoid excessive pressure

Die grinders mounted with rubber repair preparation implements such as rotary gouges, rasps and carbide wheels require minimal pressure.

Use only the weight of the machine to feel the implement working. Too much pressure reduces the effectiveness of the implement and performance of the grinder.

Excessive tool pressure results in:

• Reduced life of grinder – via inconsistency of load, over-heating.
• Diminished performance of implement – cutting edges become dull faster.
• Scorched rubber results in poor host rubber texture and adhesion of plug/patch.
• Creation of excessive smoke is an OH&S issue causing repair technician discomfort.

Keep tools clean

• Avoid rubber dust accumulation on the cooling side (inside) of all carbide tools.
• Rubber dust and debris collected inside the carbide tools significantly reduces cooling characteristics.

• Check tooling often. Disable air supply and remove rubber dust with compressed air as it accumulates. Upon completion of daily use ensure the grinder and all implements have been thoroughly cleaned, inspected and stored appropriately.