2014-09-15

How to rectify Piston to Head Clearance in reciprocating compressors?

Clearance volume or bumping clearance is the space between the top of the piston and the cylinder head of an air compressor. This clearance is an important aspect of the compressors and should be as less as practically possible to improve the volumetric efficiency of the compressor. The clearance volume should not be too less or too more. Moreover, it affects the efficiency of the machinery and thus should be checked at regular intervals of time.

The adjustment of Bumping Clearance is a very critical adjustment of the clearance volume. If more the volumetric efficiency of the compressor suffers and if less the unloaded piston may hit the cylinder head and damage both. In this article we discuss the need of this clearance and its adjustment.