Atlas Copco

Industrial aluminium piston compressors

LE 3, LE 5, LE 7, LE 10, LE 15, LE 20
L Snow

Instruction book
Atlas Copco
Industrial aluminium piston compressors

LE 3, LE 5, LE 7, LE 10, LE 15, LE 20
L Snow

Instruction book
Original instructions

Copyright notice
Any unauthorized use or copying of the contents or any part thereof is prohibited.
This applies in particular to trademarks, model denominations, part numbers and drawings.
This instruction book is valid for CE as well as non-CE labelled machines. It meets the
requirements for instructions specified by the applicable European directives as identified
in the Declaration of Conformity.

2011 - 02
No. 2920 7094 80

www.atlascopco.com
 Instruction book

Table of contents

1 Safety precautions..........................................................................................................4

1.1 SAFETY ICONS...................................................................................................................................4

1.2 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, GENERAL...........................................................................................................4

1.3 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS DURING INSTALLATION...........................................................................................4

1.4 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS DURING OPERATION..............................................................................................6

1.5 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS DURING MAINTENANCE OR REPAIR...........................................................................7

2 General description........................................................................................................9

2.1 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................9

2.2 OPTIONS........................................................................................................................................11

2.3 AIR FLOW.......................................................................................................................................11

2.4 REGULATING SYSTEM........................................................................................................................12

3 Installation.....................................................................................................................14

3.1 DIMENSION DRAWINGS.......................................................................................................................14

3.2 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTION................................................................................................................16

3.3 ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS.................................................................................................................17

3.4 SETTINGS OF OVERLOAD RELAY AND FUSES ..........................................................................................17

3.5 CABLE SIZES...................................................................................................................................18

3.6 PICTOGRAPHS.................................................................................................................................18

4 Operating instructions.................................................................................................19

4.1 INITIAL START-UP..............................................................................................................................19

4.2 STARTING.......................................................................................................................................19

4.3 TAKING OUT OF OPERATION ...............................................................................................................20

4.4 STORAGE.......................................................................................................................................20

5 Maintenance..................................................................................................................22

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5.1 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE .................................................................................................22

5.2 LUBRICATION OF COMPRESSORS..........................................................................................................22

5.3 SERVICE KITS..................................................................................................................................23

5.4 DISPOSAL OF USED MATERIAL.............................................................................................................24

6 Servicing and adjustment procedures.......................................................................25

6.1 SERVICING VALVES...........................................................................................................................25

6.2 SERVICING AIR INLET FILTER...............................................................................................................26

6.3 SERVICING SAFETY VALVE..................................................................................................................27

7 Problem solving............................................................................................................28

8 Technical data...............................................................................................................29

8.1 REFERENCE CONDITIONS...................................................................................................................29

8.2 LIMITATIONS....................................................................................................................................29

8.3 COMPRESSOR DATA..........................................................................................................................29

9 Pressure Equipment Directive (PED)..........................................................................31

10 Declaration of incorporation........................................................................................32

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1 Safety precautions

1.1 Safety icons

Explanation

Danger for life

Warning

Important note

1.2 Safety precautions, general

General precautions
1. The operator must employ safe working practices and observe all related work safety requirements and
regulations.
2. If any of the following statements does not comply with the applicable legislation, the stricter of the two
shall apply.
3. Installation, operation, maintenance and repair work must only be performed by authorized, trained,
specialized personnel.
4. The compressor is not considered capable of producing air of breathing quality. For air of breathing quality,
the compressed air must be adequately purified according to the applicable legislation and standards.
5. Before any maintenance, repair work, adjustment or any other non-routine checks, stop the compressor,
press the emergency stop button, switch off the voltage and depressurize the compressor. In addition, the
power isolating switch must be opened and locked.
6. Never play with compressed air. Do not apply the air to your skin or direct an air stream at people. Never
use the air to clean dirt from your clothes. When using the air to clean equipment, do so with extreme
caution and wear eye protection.
7. The owner is responsible for maintaining the unit in a safe operating condition. Parts and accessories shall
be replaced if unsuitable for safe operation.
8. It is not allowed to walk or stand on the compressor or its components.

1.3 Safety precautions during installation

All responsibility for any damage or injury resulting from neglecting these precautions, or
non-observance of the normal precautions and care required for installation, operation,
maintenance and repair, even if not expressly stated, will be disclaimed by the
manufacturer.

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Precautions during installation

1. The machine must only be lifted using suitable equipment in accordance with the applicable safety
regulations. Loose or pivoting parts must be securely fastened before lifting. It is strictly forbidden to
dwell or stay in the risk zone under a lifted load. Lifting acceleration and deceleration must be kept within
safe limits. Wear a safety helmet when working in the area of overhead or lifting equipment.
2. Place the machine where the ambient air is as cool and clean as possible. If necessary, install a suction
duct. Never obstruct the air inlet. Care must be taken to minimize the entry of moisture at the inlet air.
3. Any blanking flanges, plugs, caps and desiccant bags must be removed before connecting the pipes.
4. Air hoses must be of correct size and suitable for the working pressure. Never use frayed, damaged or
worn hoses. Distribution pipes and connections must be of the correct size and suitable for the working
pressure.
5. The aspirated air must be free of flammable fumes, vapors and particles, e.g. paint solvents, that can lead
to internal fire or explosion.
6. Arrange the air intake so that loose clothing cannot be sucked in.
7. Ensure that the discharge pipe from the compressor to the aftercooler or air net is free to expand under
heat and that it is not in contact with or close to flammable materials.
8. No external force may be exerted on the air outlet valve; the connected pipe must be free of strain.
9. If remote control is installed, the machine must bear a clear sign stating: DANGER: This machine is
remotely controlled and may start without warning.
The operator has to make sure that the machine is stopped and that the isolating switch is open and locked
before any maintenance or repair. As a further safeguard, persons switching on remotely controlled
machines shall take adequate precautions to ensure that there is no one checking or working on the
machine. To this end, a suitable notice shall be affixed to the start equipment.
10. The machines must be installed in such a way that an adequate flow of cooling air is available and that
the air from the exhaust does not recirculate to the compressor air inlet or cooling air inlet.
11. The electrical connections must correspond to the applicable codes. The machines must be earthed and
protected against short circuits by fuses in all phases. A lockable power isolating switch must be installed
near the compressor.
12. On machines with automatic start-stop system or if the automatic restart function after voltage failure is
activated, a sign stating "This machine may start without warning" must be affixed near the instrument
panel.
13. In multiple compressor systems, manual valves must be installed to isolate each compressor. Non-return
valves (check valves) must not be relied upon for isolating pressure systems.
14. Never remove or tamper with the safety devices, guards or insulation fitted on the machine. Every pressure
vessel or auxiliary installed outside the machine to contain air above atmospheric pressure must be
protected by a pressure-relieving device or devices as required.
15. Pipework or other parts with a temperature in excess of 80˚C (176˚F) and which may be accidentally
touched by personnel in normal operation must be guarded or insulated. Other high-temperature pipework
must be clearly marked.
16. If the ground is not level or can be subject to variable inclinations, consult the manufacturer.

Also consult following safety precautions: Safety precautions during operation and Safety
precautions during maintenance.
These precautions apply to machinery processing or consuming air or inert gas.
Processing of any other gas requires additional safety precautions typical to the application
which are not included herein.
Some precautions are general and cover several machine types and equipment; hence
some statements may not apply to your machine.

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1.4 Safety precautions during operation

All responsibility for any damage or injury resulting from neglecting these precautions, or
non-observance of the normal precautions and care required for installation, operation,
maintenance and repair, even if not expressly stated, will be disclaimed by the
manufacturer.

Precautions during operation

1. Use only the correct type and size of hose end fittings and connections. When blowing through a hose or
air line, ensure that the open end is held securely. A free end will whip and may cause injury. Make sure
that a hose is fully depressurized before disconnecting it.
2. Persons switching on remotely controlled machines shall take adequate precautions to ensure that there
is no one checking or working on the machine. To this end, a suitable notice shall be affixed to the remote
start equipment.
3. Never operate the machine when there is a possibility of taking in flammable or toxic fumes, vapors or
particles.
4. Never operate the machine below or in excess of its limit ratings.
5. People staying in environments or rooms where the sound pressure level reaches or exceeds 90 dB(A)
shall wear ear protectors.
6. Periodically check that:
• All guards are in place and securely fastened
• All hoses and/or pipes inside the machine are in good condition, secure and not rubbing
• There are no leaks
• All fasteners are tight
• All electrical leads are secure and in good order
• Safety valves and other pressure-relief devices are not obstructed by dirt or paint
• Air outlet valve and air net, i.e. pipes, couplings, manifolds, valves, hoses etc. are in good repair, free
of wear or abuse
7. If warm cooling air from compressors is used in air heating systems, e.g. to warm up a workroom, take
precautions against air pollution and possible contamination of the breathing air.
8. If available, do not remove any of, or tamper with, the sound-damping material.
9. Never remove or tamper with the safety devices, guards or insulations fitted on the machine. Every pressure
vessel or auxiliary installed outside the machine to contain air above atmospheric pressure shall be
protected by a pressure-relieving device or devices as required.

Also consult following safety precautions: Safety precautions during installation and Safety
precautions during maintenance.
These precautions apply to machinery processing or consuming air or inert gas.
Processing of any other gas requires additional safety precautions typical to the application
which are not included herein.
Some precautions are general and cover several machine types and equipment; hence
some statements may not apply to your machine.

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1.5 Safety precautions during maintenance or repair

All responsibility for any damage or injury resulting from neglecting these precautions, or
non-observance of the normal precautions and care required for installation, operation,
maintenance and repair, even if not expressly stated, will be disclaimed by the
manufacturer.

Precautions during maintenance or repair

1. Always wear safety glasses.
2. Use only the correct tools for maintenance and repair work.
3. Use only genuine spare parts.
4. All maintenance work shall only be undertaken when the machine has cooled down.
5. A warning sign stating "work in progress; do not start" shall be attached to the starting equipment.
6. Persons switching on remotely controlled machines shall take adequate precautions to ensure that there
is no one checking or working on the machine. To this end, a suitable notice shall be affixed to the remote
start equipment.
7. Close the compressor air outlet valve before connecting or disconnecting a pipe.
8. Before removing any pressurized component, effectively isolate the machine from all sources of pressure
and relieve the entire system of pressure.
9. Never use flammable solvents or carbon tetrachloride for cleaning parts. Take safety precautions against
toxic vapors of cleaning liquids.
10. Scrupulously observe cleanliness during maintenance and repair. Keep dirt away by covering the parts
and exposed openings with a clean cloth, paper or tape.
11. Never weld or perform any operation involving heat near the oil system. Oil tanks must be completely
purged, e.g. by steam-cleaning, before carrying out such operations. Never weld on, or in any way modify,
pressure vessels.
12. Whenever there is an indication or any suspicion that an internal part of a machine is overheated, the
machine shall be stopped but no inspection covers shall be opened before sufficient cooling time has
elapsed; this to avoid the risk of spontaneous ignition of the oil vapor when air is admitted.
13. Never use a light source with open flame for inspecting the interior of a machine, pressure vessel etc.
14. Make sure that no tools, loose parts or rags are left in or on the machine.
15. All regulating and safety devices shall be maintained with due care to ensure that they function properly.
They may not be put out of action.
16. Before clearing the machine for use after maintenance or overhaul, check that operating pressures,
temperatures and time settings are correct. Check that all control and shut-down devices are fitted and that
they function correctly. If removed, check that the coupling guard of the compressor drive shaft has been
reinstalled.
17. Protect the motor, air filter, electrical and regulating components etc. to prevent moisture from entering
them, e.g. when steam-cleaning.
18. Make sure that all sound-damping material and vibration dampers, e.g. damping material on the bodywork
and in the air inlet and outlet systems of the compressor, are in good condition. If damaged, replace it by
genuine material from the manufacturer to prevent the sound pressure level from increasing.
19. Never use caustic solvents which can damage materials of the air net, e.g. polycarbonate bowls.
20. The following safety precautions are stressed when handling refrigerant:
• Never inhale refrigerant vapors. Check that the working area is adequately ventilated; if required, use
breathing protection.
• Always wear special gloves. In case of refrigerant contact with the skin, rinse the skin with water. If
liquid refrigerant contacts the skin through clothing, never tear off or remove the latter; flush

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abundantly with fresh water over the clothing until all refrigerant is flushed away; then seek medical
first aid.
21. Protect hands to avoid injury from hot machine parts, e.g. during draining of oil.

Also consult the following safety precautions: Safety precautions during installation and
Safety precautions during operation.
These precautions apply to machinery processing or consuming air or inert gas.
Processing of any other gas requires additional safety precautions typical to the application
which are not included herein.
Some precautions are general and cover several machine types and equipment; hence
some statements may not apply to your machine.

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2 General description

2.1 Introduction

General
LE are air-cooled, two cylinder, single-stage, lubricated piston compressors, built for effective working
pressure up to 7 bar.

Main parts

Powerpack, general view

Powerpack, rear view

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Powerpack, front view

References on figures

Reference Description
AF Air inlet filter
Dm Condensate drain valve
FN Fan
Gp Air pressure gauge
M Motor
SV Safety valve

References on figures

Reference Description
1 Cover
2 Air inlet silencer
3 Crankcase
4 Cooling pipe
5 Left cylinder
6 Right cylinder
7 Pictograph, see Pictographs.
8 Air inlet hose
9 Motor duct
10 Electric connection box

LE Snow
The LE Snow includes:
• Crankcase (3) and cylinders (5 and 6)
• Air inlet filter (AF) and air inlet silencer (2)
• Fan (FN)
• Air cooler piping (4)

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• Drive motor (M) with motor duct (9) for warm inlet air
• Air outlet system with pressure gauge (Gp), safety valve (SV) and drain condensate valve (Dm)

2.2 Options
The compressors are extendible with the following options. For detailed information, consult Atlas Copco.
Overview of options

Figure Name Description

Transformer Control voltage

N.O. (normally open contact): Break contact

Oil level switch
N.C. (normally closed contact): Make contact

Power supply cable (3 m) With CEE 3 pole plug 16 A

2.3 Air flow

Powerpack
Air, drawn through the motor duct (9), air inlet filter (AF) and air inlet silencer (1) into cylinders (2 and 3),
is compressed. Then it is discharged through cooler piping (4 and 5) and air outlet system (safety valve (SV)
with pressure gauge (Gp)).

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Air flow

References on flow diagram

Reference Description
AF Air inlet filter
Dm Condensate drain valve
Dp Oil drain plug
FC Oil filler cap
FN Fan
Gp Air pressure gauge
M Motor
SG Oil level sight-glass
SV Safety valve

References on flow diagram

Reference Description
1 Air inlet silencer
2 Left cylinder
3 Right cylinder
4 Cooler
5 Cooling pipe

2.4 Regulating system

A regulating system must be provided by the snowgun manufacturer:
• Take care not to exceed the maximum working pressure of 7 bar.

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• For normal operation, the ambient temperature must be between -20 °C and 5 °C.
• The maximum allowed number of motor starts is 20 per hour.
• If limited to maximum 30 minutes and with the small fan cover (installed in front of fan cowl, to prevent
freezing in cold environment) removed, test runnings at ambient temperatures up to 20 °C are allowed.

Small fan cover

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3 Installation

3.1 Dimension drawings

Powerpack, LE 3 and LE 5

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Powerpack, LE 7 and LE 10

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Powerpack, LE 15 and LE 20
References on dimension drawings

Reference Description
(1) For dismantling air filter
(2) Cooling air inlet
(3) Air inlet
(4) Compressed air outlet

3.2 Installation instruction

Install the compressor in an area where the noise levels do not cause inconvenience and adequate ventilation
is available for cooling purposes.

Before connecting the compressor, check that the electrical data on the compressor data
plates are in accordance with the local power supply. Before connecting the electricity,
ensure that the power supply is off and correctly isolated.
The electrical power supplied to the compressor must be connected by a qualified
electrician in accordance with the wiring diagram supplied with the plant. All wiring must
be in accordance with the applicable regulations.

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Install the compressor in an area where the air is as clean as possible.

Although the compressor can be operated with a maximum inclination of 40% (22.5 degrees) in any direction,
it is recommended to place the compressor as level as possible.
Take into account minimum distances for good cooling and at the fan of the motor.

3.3 Electrical connections

Always apply all Safety precautions during installation.
The electrical connections must be carried out by a qualified electrician. All wiring must be
in accordance with the applicable regulations.
Before connecting the compressor, check that the voltage and frequency on the
compressor data plate correspond to the supply net.
Provide an isolating switch in the power line near the compressor and protect each phase
against short-circuits by fuses. The power supply and earthing lines must be of a suitable
size. See section Overload relay and fuses and Cable sizes.

3.4 Settings of overload relay and fuses

Settings of overload relay and fuses of compressors with DOL starter

50 Hz

Type Voltage (V) Overload relay (A) Fuses (A)

LE 3 230 (one-phase) 13.7 25
LE 3 230 9.3 16
LE 3 400 5.6 10
LE 5 400 9.3 16
LE 7 230 20.3 25
LE 7 400 12.4 25

60 Hz

Type Voltage (V) Overload relay (A) Fuses (A)

LE 3 440 5.7 10
LE 5 380 11.1 25
LE 5 440 9.8 16
LE 5 460 9.4 16
LE 7 230 25.1 40
LE 7 440 12.8 25
LE 7 575 8.3 10
LE 10 230 28.5 40
LE 10 460 14.5 25
LE 10 575 11.7 25
LE 15 230 39.9 63

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Type Voltage (V) Overload relay (A) Fuses (A)

LE 15 460 20.2 40
LE 20 575 19.9 40

3.5 Cable sizes

Type Starter Cable size (mm²)
LE 3 DOL 2.5
LE 5, LE 7 DOL 4
LE 10, LE 15 DOL 6
LE 20 DOL 10

3.6 Pictographs

Pictographs

References on figure

Reference Description
1 Temperature
2 Pressure
3 On
4 Off
5 Warning: voltage
6 Switch off voltage and depressurize before maintenance or repair
7 Read Instruction book before starting
8 Consult Instruction book for correct rotation direction
9 Do not adjust switch if it is depressurized

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4 Operating instructions

4.1 Initial start-up

If the compressor has not run for the past six months (at initial start-up, check the date on the data plate), it
is strongly recommended to improve the lubrication of the compressor element:
1. Drain the compressor oil.
2. Refill the compressor with compressor lubricating oil (recommended oil: PAO oil) while turning the
crankshaft by hand.
If the compressor has not run for longer than one year:
1. Drain the compressor oil.
2. Remove the cylinder heads and lubricate the cylinder liners.
3. Reassemble the heads, refill the compressor with compressor lubricating oil (recommended oil: PAO oil)
while turning the crankshaft by hand.

Start and stop instructions must be provided by the snowgun manufacturer.

4.2 Starting
Check oil level
LE are filled with Piston Fluid compressor oil (recommended oil: PAO oil). The oil level should be at the top
of the red circle of the oil level sight-glass (SG). The minimum level is the lower part of the red circle.

First start after a long storage period

The lubrication oil needs some time to lubricate all the bearings and the pistons.
The compressor has to run:
• without load
• for five minutes
Switch on the voltage. Start the motor.
On LE 15 and LE 20 compressors, check for the correct direction of rotation as indicated by the arrow on the
fan housing. If the rotation direction is wrong, switch off the voltage and reverse two of the input line
connections.
Every start during working period
The compressor has to run:

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• without load
• for five seconds
Switch on the voltage. Start the motor.
On LE 15 and LE 20 compressors, check for the correct direction of rotation as indicated by the arrow on the
fan housing. If the rotation direction is wrong, switch off the voltage and reverse two of the input line
connections.

4.3 Taking out of operation

At the end of the service life of the compressor, proceed as follows:
1. Stop the compressor and close the air outlet valve (customer's installation).
2. Switch off the voltage and disconnect the compressor from the mains.
3. Depressurize the compressor.
4. Shut off and depressurize the part of the air net which is connected to the outlet valve. Disconnect the
compressor from the air net.
5. Drain the oil.

4.4 Storage

Storage procedure
1. Let the compressor run for at least 20 minutes: the last time it runs before its storage, in order to remove
all the condensate and prevent corrosion.
2. Close the main inlet duct using the original or a similar protective device.

Close main inlet duct

3. Cover or pack the compressor. If the compressor is stored in packing, put some vapor corrosion inhibitor
(VCI) paper into the packing.

Outdoor or indoor storage

Outdoor storage
The compressor can be stored outdoors for a period of maximum 3 months.
Storage in a warehouse
If the compressor has to be stored for a longer period, indoor storage is recommended.

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The warehouse should be clean, dry and well-ventilated with no vibrations nearby (can damage mechanical
components, as bearings, but also do some structural damages). The compressor should be stored in upright
position, not upside down or on its side.

Service during storage

Every 6 months
1. Turn the shaft by hand or automatically in order to redistribute a protective oil film on bearings, rollers
and drive gears.
2. Replace plugs, tapes, bags and other protective devices.
3. Perform a functional test of the compressor: let it run for 5 minutes without load and then 20 minutes
loaded.
Every 12 months
1. Exchange oil.
2. Perform a functional test of the compressor: let it run for 5 minutes without load and then 20 minutes
loaded.
After 24 months
1. Exchange oil.
2. Disassemble the head and valve plate and check the piston and cylinder without disassembling them if
not necessary.
3. Perform a functional test of the compressor: let it run for 5 minutes without load and then 20 minutes
loaded.

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5 Maintenance

5.1 Preventive maintenance schedule

The schedule contains a summary of the maintenance instructions. Read the respective
section before taking maintenance measures.
When servicing, replace all disengaged packing components, e.g. gaskets, O-rings,
washers.
The "longer interval" checks must also include the "shorter interval" checks.

Period Running hours Operation Consult section See notes Service kit
Weekly - Check oil level. Initial start up 1 -
6-monthly - Test safety Safety valve 2 -
valve.
6-monthly - Inspect air inlet Air filter 3 2
filter.
Yearly 500 On LE 15 and LE Air filter 3 2
20, replace air
inlet filter.
Yearly 600 On LE 5 and LE Air filter 3 2
7, replace air
inlet filter.
Yearly 800 On LE 3, replace Air filter 3 2
air inlet filter.
2-yearly 3000 If Piston Fluid oil Lubrication of - 3
is used, change compressor
oil.
- 4000 On LE 3 and LE Valves - 1
5, LE 15 and LE
20, replace valve
discs.
- 5000 On LE 7 and LE Valves - 1
10, replace valve
discs.

Notes:
1. Check the level in the red circle of the oil level sight-glass.
2. Wear gloves and safety glasses.
3. For normal operation in clean surroundings. More frequently when operating in a dusty environment.

5.2 Lubrication of compressors

It is strongly recommended to use the Piston Fluid compressor oil (recommended oil: PAO oil) to keep the
compressor in excellent operating condition.

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Traditional lubricants cannot cope with the extreme conditions of piston compressors, resulting in a fast oil
degradation, overheating and potentially irreversible damage and high repair costs. Therefore, high
performing lubricants increase the equipment lifetime.
Considering the low oil content in piston compressors, often less than 2 liters, the economy of lesser quality
oils simply is not worth the risk.
Piston Fluid oil can be ordered in different quantities: a 1-liter can and 5-liter can.

5.3 Service kits

Service kits are available, offering the benefits of genuine Atlas Copco parts while keeping the maintenance
budget low. The kits comprise all parts needed for servicing.
Consult the Parts list for the contents of all kits.

Service kits

References on figure

Reference Description
1 Valve kit
2 Filter kit
3 Piston fluid (recommended oil: PAO oil)

1. Use only authorized parts. Any damage or malfunction caused by the use of
unauthorized parts is not covered by Warranty or Product Liability.
2. Whichever interval comes first. The local Sales Company may overrule the
maintenance schedule, especially the service intervals, depending upon the
environmental and working conditions of the compressor.
3. For the contents of all kits, consult the Parts list.

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5.4 Disposal of used material

Used filters or any other used material (e.g. desiccant, lubricants, cleaning rags, machine parts, etc.) must be
disposed of in an environmentally friendly and safe manner, and in line with the local recommendations and
environmental legislation.

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6 Servicing and adjustment procedures

6.1 Servicing valves

A faulty valve must be replaced immediately. A faulty valve can be diagnosed as stated in
section Problem solving. Consult Atlas Copco.

It is highly recommended to replace the valve discs, O-rings and gaskets if disassembling the cylinder heads.

Different parts of the cylinder heads

Cylinder heads, low pressure variants

References on drawing

Reference Description
1 Air inlet silencer
2 Gasket
3 Spring
4 Outlet valve guard
5 Outlet valve disc
6 Valve seat
7 Inlet valve disc
8 Guide pin
9 O-ring

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Reference Description
10 O-ring
11 O-ring
12 Cylinder head cover

Replacing valve discs

1. Remove the fan guard, unscrew the cap and remove the cover. Remove the metal suction part of the air
inlet filter, the air inlet filter and cover of the air inlet silencer (1).
2. Disconnect cylinder head cover (12) from the inlet and outlet pipe flanges. Remove cylinder head cover.
3. Remove spring (3), outlet valve guard (4) and outlet valve disc (5).
4. Lift off valve seat (6) and remove inlet valve disc (7). Do not remove guide pins (8).
5. Remove and discard all O-rings.
6. If necessary, remove the carbon deposits from the inlet valve guard at the cylinder top. Take care that no
dirt drops into the cylinder.
7. Clean and inspect all parts.
8. Fit a new O-ring (11). Do not stretch the cord while inserting in its groove; the ends should meet.
9. Put a new inlet valve disc (7) into place and install valve seat (6).
10. Fit new O-rings (9 and 10).
11. Install a new outlet valve disc (5), guard (4) and spring (3).
12. Reinstall cylinder head cover (12). Fit new O-rings/gaskets (2) for the pipe flanges. Fit the flange and
cylinder head bolts and tighten them alternately.
13. Reinstall the fan guard, cover of the air inlet silencer, air inlet filter and metal filter cap, cover (1) and cap.
Tightening torque values

Thread size Tightening torque (Nm) Allowed deviation (Nm)

M6 10 2
M8 23 2
M10 46 5

6.2 Servicing air inlet filter

To replace the air filter, follow these steps:

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Reference Description
1 Cap
2 Cover
3 Air inlet silencer
AF Air inlet filter

1. Stop the compressor.

2. Unscrew the cap (1) on top of the cover (2). Lift off the filter cover and remove the air inlet filter (AF).
Take care that no dirt drops inside the air inlet silencer (3).
3. Using a damp cloth, clean the filter chamber and cover. Discard damaged elements.
4. Install the new element, cover and cap.

6.3 Servicing safety valve

Test the safety valve on a separate air net.

Replace the valve if it does not open at the correct pressure.

No adjustments are allowed.

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7 Problem solving
Problem
Insufficient air pressure
Unit does not speed up
Too frequent starting/too short
operating periods
High oil consumption on compressors
Unit does not start
Overload relay cuts out
28
Fault
Air leak
Air inlet filter choked
Air consumption exceeds Check equipment connected.
maximum output of compressor
Damaged valve
Voltage drop at motor terminals Check the power supply. Use
correct size of cable.
Check valve leaks
Oil level too high
Piston ring(s) worn or broken
Electrical failure
Overload relay cuts out
Overload relay incorrectly set
Ambient temperature too high
Over-current due to motor or
compressor failure
Instruction book
Remedy
Check and correct as
necessary.
Replace filter.
Inspect valves and replace
parts where necessary.
Check for broken valve and
springs.
Do not overfill crankcase. Keep
level in red circle of sight-glass.
Have condition of piston rings
checked.
Have electrical system
checked. Check fuses and line
terminals for tightness.
Reset overload relay. If the
relay cuts out again after
starting, see "Overload relay
cuts out".
Check and adjust. Reset relay.
Remove cover of fan cowl if
operating above 5 degrees
Celsius.
Consult Atlas Copco.
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8 Technical data

8.1 Reference conditions

Condition Unit Value
Absolute inlet pressure bar 1
Relative air humidity % 0
Air inlet temperature °C 0
Effective working pressure bar 5
Reference shaft speed (50 Hz) rpm 1500
Reference shaft speed (60 Hz) rpm 1800

8.2 Limitations
Limitation Unit Value
Maximum effective working pressure bar(e) 7
Minimum effective working pressure bar(e) 1
Maximum allowable inlet temperature °C 5
Minimum ambient temperature °C -25

8.3 Compressor data

50 Hz (7 bar)

Compressor data Unit LE 3 LE 5 LE 7 LE 10 LE 15 LE 20

Free air delivery (note 1)
- at reference conditions l/s 5.0 8.6 12.4 15.4 24.2 32.2
- at effective working pressure 7 bar l/s 4.4 7.3 11.2 14.2 21.1 29.0
- at effective working pressure 3 bar l/s 5.7 10.3 13.9 17.6 29.7 34.5
Power data based on shaft input
Shaft power input
- at reference conditions kW 1.73 3.08 4.25 6.96 10.2 13.78
- at effective working pressure 7 bar kW 1.88 3.22 4.65 7.46 10.70 14.10
- at effective working pressure 3 bar kW 1.53 2.63 3.68 6.05 9.78 13.20
Power data based on packaged compressor (electrical) power input
Power input
- at reference conditions kW 2.31 3.93 5.21 8.13 11.79 15.77
- at effective working pressure 7 bar kW 2.51 4.11 5.71 8.71 12.37 16.13
- at effective working pressure 3 bar kW 2.04 3.36 4.52 7.07 11.31 15.10
Temperature of the air leaving the cylinder head (approximately)

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 Instruction book

Compressor data Unit LE 3 LE 5 LE 7 LE 10 LE 15 LE 20

- at reference conditions °C 79.7 124 116 134.9 114.5 133
- at effective working pressure 7 bar °C 83.5 131 122 148.3 117 136
- at effective working pressure 3 bar °C 69.1 103 97 114 108 124.8
Maximum compressed air temperature at °C 39.2 47 53 76.3 72.5 74
outlet valve
Mean sound pressure level (note 2) dB(A) 74.5 74 76 77 85.6 84.1

60 Hz (7 bar)

Compressor data Unit LE 3 LE 5 LE 7 LE 15 LE 20

Free Air Delivery (note 1)
- at reference conditions l/s 6.0 10.3 14.9 29.0 38.6
- at effective working pressure 7 bar l/s 5.3 8.8 13.4 25.3 34.8
- at effective working pressure 3 bar l/s 6.9 12.4 16.7 35.6 41.4
Power data based on shaft input
Shaft power input
- at reference conditions kW 2.076 3.70 5.10 12.24 16.54
- at effective working pressure 7 bar kW 2.256 3.86 5.58 12.84 16.92
- at effective working pressure 3 bar kW 1.836 3.16 4.42 11.74 15.84
Power data based on packaged compressor (electrical) power input
Power input
- at reference conditions kW 2.77 4.72 6.26 14.15 18.92
- at effective working pressure 7 bar kW 3.01 4.93 6.85 14.84 19.36
- at effective working pressure 3 bar kW 2.45 4.03 5.42 13.57 18.12
Temperature of the air leaving the low pressure cylinder head (approximately)
- at reference conditions °C 79.7 124 116 114.5 133
- at effective working pressure 7 bar °C 83.5 131 122 117 136
- at effective working pressure 3 bar °C 69.1 103 97 108 124.8
Maximum compressed air temperature at °C 39.2 47 53 72.5 74
outlet valve
Mean sound pressure level (note 2) dB(A) 76.5 76 78 87.6 86.1

1) According to ISO 1217 ed. 1996

• tolerance LE 5: 7%
• tolerance LE 7, LE 10, LE 15, LE 20: 6%
2) According to PNEUROP PN8NTC2.2, tolerance 2dB

30 2920 7094 80
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9 Pressure Equipment Directive (PED)

Components subject to the 97/23/EC Pressure Equipment Directive

The following table contains the necessary information for the inspection of all pressure equipment of category
II and higher according to the Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23/EC and all pressure equipment according
to the Simple Pressure Vessel Directive 87/404/EEC.

Part number Description PED Class

0832 1001 10 Safety valve IV

Overall rating
The compressors conform to PED smaller than category II.

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 Instruction book

10 Declaration of incorporation

Typical example of a Declaration of Incorporation document

(1): Contact address:

Atlas Copco Airpower n.v.
P.O. Box 100
B-2610 Wilrijk (Antwerp)
Belgium

32 2920 7094 80
In order to be First in Mind—First in Choice® for all your quality
compressed air needs, Atlas Copco delivers the products and
services that help to increase your business’ efficiency and
profitability.
Atlas Copco's pursuit of innovation never ceases, driven by our
need for reliability and efficiency. Always working with you, we are
committed to providing you the customized quality air solution that
is the driving force behind your business.

No. 2920 7094 80 / 2011 - 02 - Printed in Belgium

www.atlascopco.com