Actionable 2024 Tips for Storing Mining Air Compressors During Planned & Unplanned Downtime
- Short-term (1-30 day) and long-term (6+ month) storage require distinct SOPs; mixing the two leads to 3x higher corrosion risk, per CAGI 2023.
- Storage SOPs do not apply to portable mining air compressors used in transient drill sites; these require separate daily preservation steps.
Core Data Verifying Storage Impacts
Most mine operations prioritize equipment repair over proactive storage prep, but the data shows this is a costly misallocation of resources.
Common Missteps That Cause Avoidable Damage
The most common mistake operations make is applying the same storage steps for 1-week shutdowns and 6-month shutdowns. Short-term storage focuses on preventing immediate moisture buildup, while long-term storage requires sealing internal components to avoid rust and lubricant degradation. Another frequent misstep is covering outdoor units with non-breathable plastic sheeting. This traps condensation between the tarp and the unit casing, leading to external rust that spreads to internal piping within 3 months of storage. Many teams also skip draining the aftercooler and moisture traps before shutdown. Even 8 ounces of trapped water can corrode steel air lines enough to cause a leak within 2 weeks of storage, per CAGI 2023 lab testing. You don’t need specialized industrial storage facilities to follow these steps. Most mid-sized mine sites can implement all recommended protocols with existing on-site tools.
Step-by-Step Storage SOPs
Short-Term (1-30 Day) Shutdown Storage
Start with a full system drain. Open all moisture traps, aftercooler drains, and receiver tank drains while the unit is still warm from operation, as warm water flows more easily and leaves less residual moisture. Drain all used lubricant from the crankcase and replace it with fresh, manufacturer-approved lubricant. Used oil contains acidic byproducts from compression that eat into aluminum and steel components within 10 days of shutdown, even if the unit is not running. Run the unit for 15 minutes after adding new lubricant to circulate it across all internal gaskets and seals. This prevents gaskets from drying out and cracking during the shutdown period. Finally, install a temporary ISO 8573-1 Class 2 intake filter to block dust and moisture from entering the unit while it is shut down.
Long-Term (6+ Month) Shutdown Storage
Complete all short-term storage steps first, then add three additional protocols for extended shutdowns. First, inject a food-grade corrosion inhibitor into the intake manifold while the unit is running for the final 10 minutes of operation. This coats all internal cylinder walls and piping with a protective layer that prevents rust for up to 12 months. Second, seal all intake and exhaust ports with waterproof rubber plugs to block moisture, dust, and small pests from entering the unit. Third, schedule a 30-minute test run every 30 days for the duration of the storage period. Run the unit at full load to circulate lubricant and evaporate any residual moisture that may have built up in the crankcase. Avoid running the unit for less than 20 minutes, as this will cause unevaporated moisture to accumulate instead of being vented.
Boundary Conditions for These Tips
These storage SOPs apply exclusively to stationary mining air compressors, including screw, reciprocating, and centrifugal units used for fixed mine site operations. These steps do not apply to portable mining air compressors deployed to transient drill sites, as these units are designed for frequent movement and require daily pre- and post-use checks instead of long-term storage protocols. The SOPs also do not apply to units with pre-existing internal corrosion or component damage. Storage will only accelerate degradation of already compromised parts, so these units should be repaired or replaced before any planned shutdown.
