Atlas Copco Aftercooler

The Role of Atlas Copco Cooler:

Atlas Copco coolers, also known as heat exchangers, are vital components in air compressors. Depending on the medium used for heat exchange, they can be classified into two types: water-cooled and air-cooled. To address the limitations that may arise from relying on external cooling water sources, these machines are often designed with integrated coolers. These coolers include water storage and cooling functions, which are commonly referred to as water tanks.

The primary function of the Atlas Copco cooler is to dissipate the heat generated during the air compressor's operation through a heat exchange process between the media. This process effectively reduces the air compressor's operating temperature, ensuring optimal performance and prolonged operation of its main components. Additionally, the cooler plays a crucial role in improving compressed air quality by condensing and discharging moisture from the saturated air, thus facilitating trouble-free operation.

Working Principle of Atlas Copco Cooler:

The flow of Atlas Copco air compressor oil is driven by the pressure differential within the system, moving from the separator tank to the central compressor. Initially, when the oil temperature is below 77℃, the temperature control valve remains closed, allowing the oil to pass directly through the oil filter without traversing the Atlas Copco cooler. Subsequently, as heat generated by the compression process is absorbed, the oil temperature gradually increases. Once the oil temperature surpasses 77°C (88 °C for the 24KT model), the temperature control valve opens, directing some of the oil to flow through the Sullair cooler before reaching the main engine via the oil filter.

Maintenance of Atlas Copco Cooler:

Regular maintenance of the Atlas Copco cooler is essential to ensure its optimal performance. Accumulating oil, grease, dust, and dirt on the cooler's surface can impair heat exchange efficiency, resulting in excessive exhaust temperatures. Therefore, cleaning the outer surface of the cooler every two weeks using a vacuum cleaner, cleaning fluid, or low-pressure compressed air is recommended. Additionally, it is crucial to frequently discharge the condensed water from the aftercooler in environments with low ambient temperatures or high humidity. In particular, when the temperature drops below 0°C, daily draining of the aftercooler's condensed water is necessary.