Air Compressors for Mining: Preventative Maintenance Tips

Air compressors are at the heart of mining operations. From powering drilling and blasting equipment to keeping ventilation systems and dust suppression running, they play a vital role in productivity and safety. But in mining, where downtime can cost thousands of dollars per hour, ensuring compressors are reliable is not optional — it’s essential. Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your equipment performing in the harshest conditions. 

Mining environments accelerate wear and tear on compressed air systems. Dust, extreme heat, humidity, and heavy workloads place constant stress on components. Without preventative maintenance, the risk of breakdowns increases significantly. Beyond operational interruptions, this can lead to compliance risks, higher operating costs, and potential safety hazards. 

A regular maintenance program ensures compressors operate at peak performance, helping mines meet their production goals while maintaining safe, compliant, and efficient operations. 

1. Regular oil and filter changes
   Contaminated oil and clogged filters reduce compressor efficiency and can damage critical components. Scheduled replacements are vital to protecting your investment.
2. Inspect belts, hoses, and connections
   Wear and tear on belts or leaks in hoses can cause costly inefficiencies or failures. Checking these components during routine servicing keeps systems running smoothly.
3. Monitor air quality and cooling systems
   Clean, cool air is critical for both equipment and worker safety. Regularly servicing cooling systems and monitoring air quality ensures compliance with standards while preventing overheating and contamination.
4. Leak detection
   Even minor air leaks can waste significant energy. Detecting and repairing leaks early reduces energy bills and prevents strain on compressors.
5. Scheduled air receiver inspections
   Air receivers must comply with Australian Standards such as AS 3788:2024. Timely inspections help meet legal requirements and reduce safety risks.
6. Keep service records
   Maintaining detailed logs of all servicing allows you to track performance trends and anticipate future maintenance needs before issues arise.

Skipping preventative maintenance might save time in the short term, but the costs are far higher in the long run. Mines that neglect compressor servicing face: 

• Increased breakdowns and unplanned downtime 

• Higher energy bills from inefficient systems 

• Safety risks, particularly in underground operations 

• Reduced compressor lifespan, leading to premature replacement costs 

At Mobile Compressed Air, we understand the challenges of maintaining compressed air systems in mining. That’s why we offer: 

• 24/7 service coverage across South Australia and the Northern Territory 

• Experienced technicians who know the demands of mining environments 

• Remote and regional servicing capability, ensuring support wherever your site is located 

• Preventative maintenance programs tailored to your site’s needs and compliance requirements 

Whether it’s routine servicing, urgent callouts, or long-term maintenance planning, Mobile Compressed Air is your trusted compressed air partner in mining. 

Preventative maintenance is not just about protecting equipment — it’s about safeguarding productivity, compliance, and worker safety. With the right maintenance program, your compressors will deliver reliable performance while reducing long-term costs. 

Contact Mobile Compressed Air today to schedule a preventative maintenance plan for your mining compressors. Our team is ready 24/7 to keep your operation running.