Green Point UK, BITZER UK's compressor remanufacturing and services arm, has introduced a specialist support service for refrigeration contractors responsible for maintaining cooling systems based on screw compressors.
advise and support engineers
Will Pribyl, General Manager, says, "Tackling screw compressors in the field can be daunting due to their complex design and mechanical sophistication."
He adds, "GPUK can advise and support engineers to give them the knowledge and confidence to carry out work effectively, and get the cooling plant back up and running quickly."
piston-based automotive engines
Conventional reciprocating compressors are often better understood and considered more accessible
Conventional reciprocating compressors are often better understood and considered more accessible in the field as the technology is more familiar, being based on similar principles to piston-based automotive engines.
Will Pribyl continues, "In contrast, modern screw compressors operate on different compression principles and are made using advanced manufacturing techniques to achieve the extremely fine tolerances required."
new screw compressor support service
Will Pribyl adds, "Opening up and getting hands-on with such sophisticated equipment can be intimidating for service engineers, particularly given the potential consequences of extended downtime or permanent damage."
Green Point's new screw compressor support service includes remote technical advice, on-site support if required, troubleshooting, and diagnostic services.
in-person training course
In collaboration with BITZER UK, it is also developing an in-person training course on screw compressor technology, being introduced at the company's headquarters in Milton Keynes next year.
It is hoped the service will lead to improved maintenance practices, reduced downtime
Aimed at refrigeration contractors, field engineers, and hands-on end-user maintenance staff, it is hoped the service will lead to improved maintenance practices, reduced downtime, lower servicing costs, and improved efficiency.
screw compressors challenges
Servicing screw compressors in the field presents several challenges due to their complex design and operational requirements.
These include:
- Precision tolerances: Screw compressors are engineered with very fine tolerances, which means even minor wear or misalignment can lead to significant performance issues. Field engineers have to be extremely precise and careful in carrying out work, which sometimes requires special tools.
- Sealing and lubrication issues: Maintaining proper sealing and lubrication within a screw compressor is critical to its operation. Incorrect lubrication or seal failure can lead to severe damage, requiring engineers to have in-depth knowledge of the correct types and amounts of lubricants and how to apply them.
- Advanced diagnostic requirements: Identifying issues within a screw compressor often requires advanced diagnostic equipment and techniques. Engineers need to be skilled in using such tools, which may involve interpreting vibration analysis, oil analysis, or thermography results to detect problems within the compressor.
- High costs and downtime: Screw compressors are typically used in large, high-capacity cooling systems, and any downtime can be costly. Field engineers are under pressure to diagnose and repair issues quickly to minimize disruption, which can be challenging given the complexity of the equipment.
- Temperature and environmental sensitivity: Screw compressors are sensitive to operating conditions, including temperature and environmental factors. Engineers need to be aware of how these conditions can affect compressor performance and longevity, and how to adjust maintenance practices accordingly.
- Heavy and bulky equipment: Screw compressors are often large and heavy, making physical access and handling in the field a challenge. Special lifting equipment or techniques may be needed to manage units during servicing.
- System integration issues: Screw compressors are often part of larger, integrated cooling systems. Problems in the compressor can affect other parts of the system, so engineers need to understand the overall system to ensure that repairs do not inadvertently cause issues elsewhere.
will's comment
Will Pribyl says, "Addressing these challenges requires a combination of technical knowledge, specialized tools, and often, support from experts who are familiar with the intricacies of screw compressors."
He adds, "Being part of BITZER, the original compressor designer and manufacturer, we have access to the unrivaled technical resources of the global BITZER organization. No one is better placed to provide this support, and we are just a phone call away."
