Familiarise with High Pressure Terminology

Compressor Dictionary – R

Running a Filling Station

A filling station for breathing air cylinders must be run in accordance with the relevant guidelines and » regulations for pneumatic systems. Most of these rules pertain to compressor manufacturers and suppliers, others, however, affect compressor operators.

The safe running of your compressor can only be ensured if the safety devices, especially the emergency switch and safety valve, are checked regularly, if the recommended maintenance intervals, particularly for oil and filter changes, are strictly abided by and if the operator attends regular training courses.

For reasons of liability, minors may not operate a compressor without adult supervision. It goes without saying that sound practical and theoretical knowledge on how to run and service a high pressure compressor is a prerequisite. Maintenance work must be logged in the servicing manual.

Cylinders that have been approved for use with aqualungs and respirators may be filled to a pressure of 200 or 300 bar (3200 or 5000 psig). These values refer to the filling pressure at 15 °C. The cylinders must bear a valid certification stamp. These required hydraulic pressure tests expire and have to be repeated at certain intervals:

• steel cylinders: respirators (AG) 6 years; aqualungs (TG) 2 years.
• aluminium cylinders: identical with the testing intervals for steel cylinders (the sole exemption are cylinders manufactured by Luxfer, which have to be checked in 6-year-intervals only).
• storage cylinders: 10 years.

The design of the cylinder valve has to be TÜV-approved.
To keep moisture from seeping into the cylinder and to prevent corrosion, a residual pressure of 10 to 20 bar should always be maintained. Cylinders that have been "sucked empty" ought to be opened, checked for moisture and cleaned. Of course, they have to be kept in impeccable condition. Please note that a damaged cylinder must be depressurised immediately!

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