Question ITW AMP VN2 lubrication

[rocknrollron]

Does everyone use a filter and lubricator in the airline to their machine?

What lubricant do you use?

Is generic "air tool lubricant" acceptable?

(I have two manuals for the machine - one is older, one is newer. The older says to use a silicone-based lubicant. The newer recommends a Castrol lubricant which is hard to find...)

RocknRollRon

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Life is short and so am I.

 

[Rick Granick]

A few years ago, ITW sent me a maintenance kit which included some replacement pads for the clamp attachments, and a small bottle of a liquid that gets occasionally squirted into the air intake port. Not sure exactly what it is but I'm sure you could call their tech support and ask. The label says ATC-855 Air Tool Cleaner.
Rick

 

[Jim Miller]

"Air tool lubricant" is designed for pnuematic cylinders, and any brand would work.

An air filter/lubricator should be on the machine or as close to it as possible. Across the room on the compressor, it's almost useless. There are other threads on this in the archives.

If you don't have an automatic lubricating device, remove the air hose from the machine's intake port and squirt a few drops into it once a month, at least. For frequent use, do it every week.

 

[rocknrollron]

"Air tool lubricant" is designed for pnuematic cylinders, and any brand would work.

An air filter/lubricator should be on the machine or as close to it as possible. Across the room on the compressor, it's almost useless.

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So then, it is ok to use the filter/lubricator/air tool lubricant I purchased?
It's already set-up right next to the unit (on the side of the stand); the lubricator is on the lowest setting (slowest rate).

Hmmm, after ready some archived threads it appears I may need to find a leak and check the cylinders...the previous owner had the unit refurbed "a couple of years ago" but the compressor does kick-on every minutes when I'm working...

RocknRollRon
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The more I drink, the better things look...

 

[Jim Miller]

The supply air should be not only lubricated, but also clean and dry. Lubrication is important, but it would not repair or completely prevent leaks in the pneumatic cylinders, which wear from the inside out, so damage is usually not visible.

Debris in the supply air, which normally comes off the inside surfaces of fittings, hoses, and pipes carrying the compressed air could cause leaks. Abrasive particles scratche the friction surfaces of the cylnders' seals, which are generally soft rubber.

Moisture condenses readily in compressed air, and it can rust or corrode internal surfaces of the cylinders.

That said, I suggest first checking the connections of fittings/hoses/pipes between the compressor and the machine. Leaks in those connections are common.