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Though summer is already here, it is not too late to perform some “Spring Cleaning” on your equipment components. The change of seasons can take its toll on your oxidizer or outdoor-located equipment. By checking a short list of items, you can often avoid unexpected downtime and ensure your equipment is operating at its peak performance.
Equipment Component Cleaning to Consider:
Sensing lines on pressure switches or transmitters can often become plugged with debris or moisture from condensation. Lines should be removed and cleaned. Fittings should also be inspected to ensure they are clear. Plastic lines should be inspected for cracks, uv damage or wear and replaced as necessary.
For pneumatic actuators, be sure the air stream is clean and dry. Moisture can freeze outdoors in cold weather, rendering the actuator inoperable. Moisture can also damage cylinders, seals and solenoids. Periodically drain drip legs, filters or system moisture traps.
Ensure actuator limits are set properly to prevent over torque at the end of travel, potentially causing motor overheating or damage. These limit settings may drift over time due to wear and changes in temperatures.
Ensure all electrical openings or ports are closed or sealed per manufacturer’s specifications. Position any conduits or utilities in a manner to avoid water or fluids from entering the actuator.
Ensure the actuator cover seals are intact; closures and hardware are secure and tightened.
Many electric actuators are equipped with internal heaters to prevent condensation. The heaters will only provide protection against condensation when the equipment control power is on. Ensure supplied heaters are operable and replace if necessary.
Ensure device operating linkage, drive arms or couplings are free through their full range of motion without binding or excess friction. Check hardware, rod ends and adjusting mechanisms for tightness.
Inspect actuators internally, dry any noticeable moisture and lubricate according to manufacturer’s specifications, tighten terminals and wire connections
Repair or replace obsolete or problematic actuators.
Visually inspect the exterior of the damper and flanges for leaks, damage, hot spots or condensate, damage to cladding or insulation.
If your dampers are equipped with an inspection port or clean-out door, remove and inspect the damper internals, blades and shafts for damage, wear or debris buildup. Clean or repair as necessary. Some dampers may be equipped with a “tadpole” type gasket or spring steel seat, which should be inspected and replaced as needed. Other dampers may be equipped with an adjustable metal seat. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper set-up or replacement.
Actuator motors should be checked for binding or misalignment. Mounting brackets and actuator bases should be secure.
Ensure the hardware connecting the actuator to the damper linkage is tight. Mark the position of the connections so that quick reassembly can occur if a linkage does come loose.
Lubricate bearings per manufacturer’s instructions. Bearings with non-metallic or carbon sleeve bearings may not require lubrication.
Dampers should be set-up per manufacturer’s instruction to ensure tight shut-off is achieved where applicable.
Ensure that the fuel train is well supported and all brackets and hardware are secure. Movement can cause damage or premature wear to the components. Vibration can cause false alarms and inaccurate pressure switch indication.
Clean dust and debris from fuel train with a soft brush or cloth.
If equipped, ensure the enclosure or weather cover is intact and protecting the fuel train from the elements
Clean any enclosure vents that may be provided
If your enclosure is equipped with a fan or blower, be sure it is operating
Inspect the entire fuel train for corrosion or damage
Note and record gauge and switch settings for future reference
Use caution if pressure washing your fuel train to avoid damaging components
If painting the fuel train, it is important not to paint over breathers, vents or adjusting mechanisms
If your control panel is equipped with a circulation fan, ensure it is operational and cabinet filters are clean.
Check cabinet heating or cooling system if equipped.
Check cabinet fittings, plugs or penetrations to ensure they are water-tight
Clean the cabinet interior of any moisture or debris
Enclosures
Inspect all outdoor enclosures or tie-off boxes.
Inspect Conduit and Seal tight.
Tighten any fittings, plugs and ensure any penetrations are sealed
Clean enclosure interior of any moisture or debris
Open thermocouple termination enclosures to ensure they are dry and connections are tight.
Check thermocouple heads to ensure they are gasketed and tight
Inspect combustion blower filters and intake screens.
Inspect and clean any supply-side filters or trim screens if equipped.
Check fan or blower belts and guards
Lubricate per manufacturer’s instruction
Inspect the exterior of the equipment and remove any debris, bird nests or foreign materials from the equipment and service area
Look for hot spots or corrosion and repair/touch-up as needed
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