If monitoring a compressor with oil separation, which of the following should be monitored?

• A. Gaseous hydrocarbons
• B. Gaseous hydrocarbons and high temperature
• C. High temperature
• D. Liquid hydrocarbons

Answer: (B)

Monitoring a compressor with oil separation centers on catching two main issues that can compromise gas quality and equipment life: oil carryover in the gas and excessive temperatures during operation. If oil leaks into the gas stream as vapor, the gas supply can be contaminated and the separation system may be under strain or failing. Checking for gaseous hydrocarbons helps detect this oil-derived vapor in the gas stream, ensuring the output remains within specification and protecting downstream equipment and patients.

At the same time, watching the temperature—especially high discharge or outlet temperature—flags overheating, which can indicate lubrication problems, excessive load, or faulty heat dissipation. Overheating not only accelerates oil degradation and carries oil more into the gas, it also stresses components and can shorten the compressor’s life and reliability.

So monitoring both gaseous hydrocarbons and high temperature provides a comprehensive check: you catch contamination from oil carryover and you detect thermal faults that could worsen that contamination or signal other issues. Monitoring only hydrocarbons might miss overheating problems, while watching only temperature could miss oil vapor still present in the gas.