Compressor Pre-lube System

Ariel compressors must be pre-lubed anytime the crankshaft is turned and prior to starting. Ariel strongly
recommends an automated pre-lube system to extend driveline component life.

Ariel requires automated pre-lube systems for compressors that meet any of the following criteria:

 Electric motor driven compressors.

 Unattended-start compressors, regardless of driver type.

 Compressor models JGC:D:F:Z:U:B:V and KBK:T:Z:U:B:V.

See FIGURE 6-1 for pre-lube circuit design.

NOTE: The pre-lube return into the frame must be upstream of the oil filter.

For on-demand compressor applications, the pre-lube pump can circulate oil continuously through the
bearings while on standby.
Ariel requirements are based on a pre-lube pump sized for 25% of frame oil pump flow to ensure oil flow
to bearings, bushings, and oil-filled clearances prior to turning or start-up (see the appropriate ER-
96.4.x document for frame oil pump flow rates).

The following statements depend on oil supply and sump viscosities, which depend on oil temperature.
Oil supply temperature at the filter head or frame oil gallery is not always a true representation of total oil
sump temperature. See FIGURE 6-4 to determine oil viscosity based on temperature.

 During a cold start of the unit when oil supply viscosity is greater than 50 cSt, pre-lube pressure
should be 30 psig (2.1 barg) at the oil gallery for a minimum of 2 minutes prior to turning or starting.

 During a hot re-start of the unit when oil supply viscosity is less than 50 cSt, pre-lube pressure should
be 20 psig (1.4 barg) at the oil gallery for a minimum of 2 minutes prior to turning or starting.

NOTE: A 10 to 15 minute pre-lube is required after:

 Any major drive line maintenance

 The main lube oil system is drained

 Oil filter replacement

Instrumentation: Automated pre-lube systems require a start permissive logic and instrumentation to
satisfy the minimum required pressure and duration at the oil gallery inlet.

It is highly recommended that the compressor low oil pressure shutdown be Class B. Inhibited time shall
be no longer than 10 seconds after idle speed is achieved on gas engines or start initiation for electric
motors.

If the compressor fails to achieve 45 psig (3.1 barg) oil pressure within 10 seconds after reaching engine
idle speed or electric motor start initiation, ensure shutdown and correct the cause. Repeat pre-lube
before each start attempt.

NOTE: If a compressor fails to start or shuts down at start-up due to low oil pressure, DO NOT re-
start until the cause is corrected.