Plumbing Multiple Compressors together

by Zach
(Greenville SC)

I have one 15hp IR screw compressor located outside my shop that I bought new about 5 years ago and it's run my entire shop great until now. I'm getting low air pressure at my machines that's preventing them from operating and we also have bad moisture problems. I also have my old compressors still hooked up inside and have been running them to compensate for the low air pressure. They are 5hp piston compressors and have approximately 100 gallon tanks each. I've had some professionals come look at the system and they've made a few suggestions, all that require me to spend 6-10K, so basically I'm looking for a second opinion here as what it is I should do and what if anything I can do myself to save money. The IR has a built in dryer that is no longer working and I've been told it's because it's undersized and even if I fix it I can only expect to get 5 years or less out of it each time. The suggestion is to run the IR to my 2 old compressors to utilize the holding tanks (which I've been told should also reduce moisture). Then come out of the tanks with a refrigerated dryer that can handle all three compressors (a Beko drypoint RA100 has been recommended, but keep in mind I only want to run the IR unless something breaks or for some reason I need an unusually high volume of air). I was also told I should use no loss drains as well. Attached is a picture of the IR, the line from the IR outside to inside, the 2 old compressors, and the timed drains I already have. First question is basically does this setup sound ideal? Secondly, what's the best way to plumb the compressors together and where in the system do I put the drains and dryer? Is there anything I should add, delete, or do differently? Thank you very much in advance for your help, it's greatly appreciated!

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Bill says...

Zach, I can't refute what was recommended, as I wasn't on site, and haven't see your set up.

Yet, if you read all the pages to do with resolving water issues on this site (see water on the site map page) and read the plumbing pages too, you will get the info you seek.

Please do read the pages, and respond as a comment if you would.

Thank,

Bill