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 ALTRA MARINE LIMITED
 ALTRA MARINE LIMITED

Marine Air Compressor Parts: Small Items with Big Impact

Main Parts of Ship Air Compressor Parts


Cylinder Sleeve


It is made of graded cast iron and surrounded by a water jacket to absorb the heat generated during the compression process. The design of this marine air compressor part aims to provide a streamlined passage for pressurized air, thereby minimizing pressure drops.


Piston


Non-lubricated compressors use lightweight aluminum alloy pistons, while lubricated graded cast iron pistons use piston rings to seal and scrape off excess oil.


Piston Rod


In typically larger high-capacity compressors, the piston is connected to a piston rod made of alloy steel. They are equipped with anti-friction packing rings to avoid the chances of compressed air leakage.


Connecting Rod


The function of the connecting rod is to minimize the thrust on the bearing surfaces. It is made of forged alloy steel.


Big-End Bearing and Main Bearing


They are constructed to provide rigidity to the running rotary mechanisms. They are made of copper-lead alloy, and if proper oil and lubrication are provided, their lifespan will be very long.


Crankshaft


It is an integrally designed part, dynamically balanced with counterweights during high-speed rotation to avoid twisting due to torque. The big-end bearings and main bearings are connected to the crankshaft at crank pins and journals, polished to ensure a long bearing life.


Frame and Crankcase


Typically, they are rectangular and accommodate all the moving parts, which is why they are made of rigid cast iron. The main bearing housing is mounted on the bore of the crankcase and manufactured with the highest precision to avoid eccentricity or misalignment.


Oil Pump


A lubricating oil pump is installed to supply oil to all bearings through the crankshaft, which can be chain-driven or gear-driven. The oil pressure can be adjusted by a regulating screw in the pump. A filter is also installed at the pump's inlet to provide clean and particle-free oil to the bearings.


Water Pump


Some compressors may include a water cooling pump driven by the crankshaft through chains or gears. Some systems do not use additional pumps as they use the main system or auxiliary system water supply for cooling.

Intake and Exhaust Valves


These parts of air compressor in ship are multi-plate valves made of stainless steel, used to intake and exhaust air from one stage to another stage and into air bottles. Correct assembly of the valves is crucial for the efficient operation of the compressor.


Intake Filter


It is an air filter made of copper or mild steel, with paper material used for oil absorption and metal wire mesh to prevent any metal or dust particles from entering the compression chamber.


Intercooler


This marine air compressor part is usually installed between two stages to reduce air temperature and improve the volumetric efficiency of the compressor. Some compressors have built-in connected copper pipes for cooling, while others have externally assembled copper pipe intercoolers.


Drive Motor


The motor is connected to the compressor to drive it and is linked to the compressor via a flywheel.


Importance of Marine Air Compressor Parts


The importance of marine air compressor parts cannot be overlooked. Critical parts such as intake filters, pressure switches, and safety valves each fulfill their roles to ensure the stable and efficient operation of the air compressor. These small parts are directly related to the normal operation of the marine air system and the overall safety of the vessel, emphasizing their undeniable importance.