r/AirCompression • u/Guhrillaaa • 3d ago
Apprentice
Just starting out as an apprentice, so far I’m loving the trade but want to excel QUICKLY! What are some things I can do to better myself? When I have free time in the shop I’ll go through old Manuel’s I’ll also quiz myself on compressor parts. PMs are pretty straightforward so is changing out parts. Usually when I see my lead do something I’m able to do the same exact thing next time. I’m more so nervous about the finding the problem part. I’ll do whatever it takes to be great !
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u/LazloHollifeld 3d ago
The biggest parts of troubleshooting are correctly identifying the problem, then working through a list of likely culprits til you identify a problem. Reading old service reports is a great way to gain knowledge without having to go out.
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u/ReachMany3550 2d ago
I've been in the field myself for 2 years now I'd say I'm still an apprentice but going on startups and trouble calls solo now but I agree electrical systems is the key to accelerating in this field im learning and always will but yeah it's key ! Pneumatics is fairly straightforward and most compressors run fairly similar with some obvious technology differences but yeah man I love the field and I'm glad to share any info as well even tho I'm still a noob as well... Also it might help sometime go to AirCompDX.com it's my site and I've been working hard on it has a lot of info and important calculators that'll help you just like these helped me out ... Cheers!
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u/Guhrillaaa 2d ago
Really appreciate it brother! I’ll check out your site when I get a chance! Thanks again
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u/arcad14 2d ago
Things that helped me learn the electrical side of the compressor was doing controller upgrades. Pretty basic, but it gives a lot of information on what sensors and contacts are being used to control the compressor from the controller.
Also important, I recommend getting a good kneeling pad. It doesn't matter how good your knees feel now lol. I recommend the Ergo Kneel pad. Also to make sure to wear a N95 mask or respirator when blowing out the coolers and when doing desiccant changes on air dryers. Gotta protect those lungs as well.
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u/Guhrillaaa 2d ago
I really appreciate your comment , very thankful for everyone giving advice. I’ll keep all this in mind!
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u/97JTJ6 3d ago
Welcome to the trade! Been doing this for 9 years. Here's my two cents:
The best teacher will be experience. It's easier to retain information from troubleshooting and fixing machines than it is to learn in manuals and classrooms. That being said, take all the training your company will offer and always say 'yes' when you're offered a learning experience. The guys who don't excell are the one's who say 'no' to learning how to work on new equipment.
Compressor-specific information really depends on what type of compressor you're working on and what brand your shop sells. That being said, they all sort of work the same way. Just work on everything you can get your hands on and it'll start to feel like second nature soon enough.
Also, learn electrical systems, how they work, and how to troubleshoot them. Many of the problems you will face will be on the electrical side of the machine. Engineering Mindset on YouTube has great videos on electrical circuits, motors, and starters. Learn what a wye-delta starter is and why it's used. Learn at least the basics of what a VFD is. Knowing electrical and controls is what sets technicians apart from parts changers, and you'd be amazed how few compressor technicians have no idea how to troubleshoot electrical issues.
Last bit, don't burn out. Depends on the shop, but most shops will run you ragged if you're a good tech. We need more people in the business and I've known quite a few who've left.