RIX MB-115 User manual

November 21, 2002
APPLICABILITY [A]
RIX
COMPRESSORS
MICROBOOST
Owner’s Manual
CONFIGURATION A
MB-115
MB-230

2APPLICABILITY [ ABCD]
INTRODUCTION
Safety
This electromechanical equipment is designed to produce high pressure gas.
Operating personnel must follow these safety requirements at all times to
avoid injury to personnel or damage to property.
Keep away from live circuits. Do not attempt to replace components or make
adjustments unless the power to the compressor has been disconnected and
all pressure relieved.
Never operate with safety devices removed or disabled. This includes guards
for moving objects, protection from high temperature surfaces, pressure
relief valves, pressure switches, or covers over electrical components.
When compressing oxygen it is critical that surfaces in contact with oxygen
be kept clean and free from contamination, especially hydrocarbon
contamination or any flammable material. This compressor is shipped
oxygen clean and must be maintained that way to avoid the hazard of
explosion or fire.
Safety warnings are provided in a variety of forms, including:
Safety Labels-located on the equipment
Safety Messages- provided in this manual and proceeded by a safety alert
label, DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTE.
DANGER You will be killed or seriously hurt if you don’t follow
instructions, and equipment damage is certain.
WARNING You may be killed or seriously hurt if you don’t follow
instructions, and equipment damage is certain.
CAUTION You can be hurt if you don’t follow instructions, and equipment
damage is likely.
NOTE Highlights a certain operation, maintenance condition, or statement,
which is useful but not associated with a known hazard, as indicated by a
warning or caution.

APPLICABILITY [ABCD] 3
CONTENTS
Introduction……………………………………………………….1
Performance………………………………………………………4
Safety……………………………………………………………..5
Controls and features……………………………………………..6
Installation………………………………………………………...8
Operation………………………………………………………...10
Servicing…………………………………………………………11
Troubleshooting………………………………………………….13
Parts…………………………………………………………...…14
Technical Data…………………………………………………...20

4APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
PERFORMANCE
The Microboost Compressor is designed to take oxygen at 0-25 psig and
compress it to 2200 psig. The discharge flow rate varies with inlet pressure
according to the chart below:
Microboost Flow Chart
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
0 5 10 15 20 25
Inlet Pressure (psig)
Flow (SCFM)
Top line 60 Hz flow
Bottom line 50 Hz flow
Inlet Pressure Range 0-25 psig
Discharge Pressure Range 0-2200 psig
This compressor is designed to compress clean, dry, oxygen or nitrogen. For
other gasses contact Rix Industries.

5
APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
SAFETY
This electromechanical equipment is designed to produce high
pressure gas. Operating personnel must follow these safety
requirements at all times to avoid injury to personnel or damage to
property.
DANGER
Keep away from live circuits. Do not attempt to replace
components or make adjustments unless the power to the
compressor has been disconnected and all pressure relieved.
DANGER
Never operate with safety devices removed or disabled. This
includes guards for moving objects, protection from high
temperatures surfaces, pressure relief valves, or covers over
electrical components.
DANGER
When compressing oxygen it is critical that the surfaces in contact
with oxygen be kept clean and free from contamination, especially
hydrocarbon contamination or other flammable material. This
compressor is shipped oxygen clean and must be maintained that
way to avoid the hazard of explosion or fire.
WARNING
Surfaces on the motor and compressor can become hot and may
cause burns when touched. Allow the equipment to cool before
handling it.

6APPLICABILITY [A]
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
POWER
ENTRY
THERMAL
OVERLOAD
PRESSURE SWITCH
ACCESS
(UNDERNEATH) ON/OFF ROCKER SWITCH
START PUSHBUTTON/LIGHT

7
APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Power Entry Module- The Microboost is connected to a source of
power using a power cord connected to the Power Entry Module
(conforming to IEC-320-C13). A power cord suitable for the intended
voltage, 115 VAC or 230 VAC, at 10 amps should be used to connect
the Microboost to the source of power.
Overload- The pushbutton reset overload is provided to protect the
equipment if the motor current draw exceeds 10 amps. A separate
automatic reset thermal switch is located inside the motor to protect the
motor from overheating.
Power On/Off Rocker Switch- The rocker switch is used to turn
power on to the Microboost control system. This switch is also used to
stop the unit manually when it is running.
Start Pushbutton- The momentary lighted pushbutton is provided for
starting the compressor. With the unit plugged into a source of electric
power and the On/Off rocker switch in the On position the Start
Pushbutton can be pressed to start the compressor motor. The
compressor runs until the pressure switch signals it to stop or until the
On/Off rocker switch is switched Off.
Pressure Switch- The pressure switch is provided to automatically stop
the compressor when the set pressure is reached. This is usually factory
set at 2200 psig. The switch is located inside the Microboost base and
is accessible for adjusting through a rectangular opening provided in
the underside cover.
Relief Valves- Relief valves are provided for all compression stages.
The first stage (set at 350 psig) and second stage (set at 1200 psig)
relief valves are located on the outside of the compressor as shown. The
third stage relief valve (set at 2200 psig) is located inside the
compressor base. These prevent pressures from rising to levels that
might cause damage.

8APPLICABILITY [A]
INSTALLATION
14.8
12.8
1.7
1.3 1.1
7.9
POWER ENTRY MODULE INLET CONNECTION
(1/4 NPT)
DISCHARGE CONNECTION
(1/4 NPT)

9
APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
Revised 12/6/02
INSTALLATION
The Microboost is a free standing package weighing 51 lbs and is
meant to be located in open air on a table, shelf, or on the floor. It
may also be mounted inside a frame or cabinet as long as sufficient
air circulation is provided to prevent overheating. Locate the
compressor in an area with good ventilation. An ambient
temperature of 90o F or less is preferable. Circulating air across the
compressor with an external fan will make it operate better and last
longer.
Rix recommends installing a flow check valve after the Microboost
discharge to prevent reverse flow when the compressor is off.
Pressure gauges should be installed at the suction and discharge to
help in monitoring performance and for troubleshooting.
Plug into a source of power that is protected for 15 amps (115 V)
or 10 amps (230 V).
Connect the compressor suction to a source of clean, dry gas
regulated not to exceed 25 psig. Filtration to 2 micron max particle
size is recommended. Particle contamination can cause failure.
Connect the compressor discharge to a high pressure cylinder or
manifold designed to handle pressures at 2300 psig. The customer
is responsible for designing and adequately protecting the
plumbing and equipment he attaches to the Microboost.
CAUTION
Exposed surfaces of the motor and compressor can reach 180oF
and will cause a burn if touched. Locate the unit in a safe location
where it is protected from human contact.

10 APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
OPERATION
Check that power is connected to the Microboost.
Check that the compressor suction is connected to a source of clean,
dry oxygen or nitrogen gas.
Check that the compressor discharge is connected to a fill system
suitable for 2300 psig and that there are no restrictions in the line.
Check that the compressor discharge is relieved of any pressure build-
up.
Caution
Do not attempt to start the compressor against
discharge pressure. Vent all gas pressure at the compressor
discharge prior to starting. If the compressor stalls it is
probably because there is residual pressure in the system.
Push the Power Onrocker switch to the ON position.
Push the Start pushbutton, the compressor should come on. Verify that
the compressor comes on and the Start pushbutton light is illuminated.
Periodically monitor the compressor for proper operation. Observe that
there are no leaks or unusual noises. Make sure there is adequate air
circulation around the compressor and that the location temperature
where the compressor is operating does not exceed 110oF.
Compressor Shutdown
Press the On/Off rocker switch to the OFF position.

11
APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
SERVICING
Oxygen compression equipment has very special requirements because
of the hazards of explosion and fire associated with compressed
oxygen. Rix recommends that only trained and qualified personnel
work on this equipment. Rix recommends returning the compressor to
Rix or to an approved Rix service center when repairs are to be made.
Simple operations such as repairing leaks or replacing valves or relief
valves may be done locally by competent mechanics trained in working
on oxygen equipment. Care must be taken when handling these parts so
that surfaces in contact with oxygen do not become contaminated.
Changing Suction and Discharge Valves (first and second stages)
The compression valves are designed into the tube fittings for the first
and second stages suction and discharge. These valves are not designed
to be serviceable except by the factory. To replace a valve, remove the
fitting nut and tube line and then remove the valve. When reinstalling a
valve make sure that the O-ring is in place and is lightly lubricated with
oxygen compatible grease such as Krytoxb.
Valves are marked with an ‘S’ for suction and a ‘D’ for discharge.
Make sure the proper valve is used when reinstalling. Do not
interchange suction and discharge valves. Reinstall the tube line and
tighten the nut as necessary to eliminate leakage. Use a soap type leak
test fluid to check for leaks while the compressor is running. Tighten
just enough to eliminate all leakage.
Caution
Do not over-tighten as this may damage the sealing
surfaces making it more difficult to attain a leak-free joint.

12 APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
SERVICING
Changing Suction Valve (third stage)
This suction valve is similar to the first and second stage suction valve
but is marked “3S”. It should not be interchanged with any other stage
valve, but otherwise may be serviced in the same way as the suction
valves for the first and second stages.
Changing Discharge Valve (third stage)
The discharge valve is located under the hex plug on top of the third
stage head. It is critically important to keep the internal parts from
becoming contaminated and this valve should be serviced by personnel
trained in handling oxygen systems. Lightly lubricate the small O-ring
on the tip of the poppet with an oxygen compatible lubricant such as
Krytoxb.
Changing Relief Valves
The relief valves are not meant to be serviced except by the factory. If
it becomes necessary they may be replaced with new valves using care
so that the surfaces in contact with oxygen do not become
contaminated. The first and second stage relief valves are located on
the side of the compressor. The third stage or final relief valve is
located inside the base of the compressor.
Setting The Pressure Switch
A pressure switch is located inside the base of the compressor and is
factory set at 2200 psig. It is important that the set point never exceeds
this pressure. If it becomes necessary to reset this switch it is accessible
through a square shaped cutout in the plate covering the underside of
the base. Push the sleeve on the body of the pressure switch back to
expose the pressure adjustment mechanism. Insert a flat bladed tool
such as a screwdriver in the slot and rotate the adjustment mechanism
clockwise to increase pressure and counterclockwise to decrease it.

13
APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
TROUBLESHOOTING
Circuit breaker in Microboost base trips
Likely causes:
1. A short circuit in the motor or electrical wiring.
2. A bearing is failing in the drive system.
3. A problem internal to the compressor or gearbox has increased
the motor load.
Thermal switch in motor trips (note: this will reset automatically)
Likely causes:
1. Inadequate air circulation where the compressor is operating.
2. Motor current draw is high (see overload causes listed above).
Relief valves leaks or relieves
Likely causes:
1. A valve problem (either suction or discharge) in the next higher
stage of compression.
2. A faulty relief valve (damaged seat or maladjustment).
Low flow
Likely causes:
1. A leak in a tube or pipe fitting on the compressor.
2. A leaking relief valve.
3. Worn piston seals in the compressor.
Compressor stalls
Likely causes:
1. Mechanical failure such as a bearing seizure.
Compressor will not start
Likely causes:
1. The compressor pressure is above the pressure switch setting.
2. The motor has overheated and tripped the thermal switch.
3. The circuit breaker tripped.

14 APPLICABILITY [A]
PARTS BREAKDOWN
3
2
1
4

15
APPLICABILITY [A]
PARTS BREAKDOWN
ITEM
PART NUMBER
QTY
DESCRIPTION
1107-6858 1MOTOR
46-6970 1GEARBOX
2G100-MB-A 1COMPRESSOR (see separate parts list, page 17)
3G200-MB-115-B 1BASE (see separate parts list, page 19)
4138-5777 1POWER CORD
MICROBOOST Model MB-A-115
115 V, 50/60 Hz

16 APPLICABILITY [A]
PARTS BREAKDOWN
1
2
3
4
5
6
78
49 48 47 46 45 43 42 41 40 39
38
37
36
35
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
18 19 20 21 11 22 23 25
26
27
28
30
31
32
33
34
44
12
29
9
17 249

17
APPLICABILITY [A]
PARTS BREAKDOWN
Item Part Number Qty Description Item Part Number Qty Description
132-A9020 4Bolt, Soc Hd, 1/4-28, 1 3/8L 26 X123-146-5 1O-ring
26-A8781 1Front Plate 27 X32-1151 2Bolt, Soc Hd, 1/4-20, 2L
327-A8784 1Shaft 28 X20-A8486 2Washer, Copper
4181-5704 2Needle Bearing 29 X8-C2751 1Piston, Compression
55-C2832 1Crankshaft 30 X125-A8439 1
Seal, 1
st
Stage
632-6040 4Bolt, Hex Hd 31 X123-038-5 1O-ring, 1
st
Stage
738-A8941 1Plate, Cover 32 X31-1003 1Snap Ring
891-A8942 1Key 33 X125-A8438 1Seal 2
nd
Stage
9XAS15-A8450 2Suction Valve, 1st, 2nd 34 X123-035-5 1
O-ring, 2
nd
Stage
10 XA455-B7146 1Tube Line assembly, 1st 35 53-5020 1Nut, Nylok, 5/8-18
11 X123-903-5 REF O-ring 36 20-5021 1Washer, AN, 5/8, Steel
12 XAD15-A8451 2
Discharge Valve, 1
st
, 2
nd
37
16-A8955
1
Gasket
13 X125-A8440 1Seal, 3
rd
Stage
38
181-6287
1
Bearing
14 X123-120-5 1
O-ring, 3
rd
Stg Cylinder
39
NPN
REF
Washer (part of gearbox)
15 X63-B7013 1Cylinder Liner, 3
rd
Stg 40 125-6029 1Seal
16 X54P-4P50NSS 1Plug, 7/16 ST THD 41 63-7067 1Speedi Sleeve
17 X123-904-5 1O-ring, 42 XA515-A8449 1
Relief Valve, 2
nd
Stage
18 32-1175 4Bolt, Hex Hd 43 A100-D3056 1Crankcase
19 XAD15-A8576 1
Discharge Valve, 3
rd
Stage
44
62-A8993
1
Label, Nameplate
20 XAS15-A8594 1Suction Valve, 3
rd
Stage
45
58-A8484
REF
Guide (part of item 43)
21 XA455-B7147 1
Tube Line Assy, 2
nd
Stg
46
32-5023
4
Bolt, Soc Hd, 5/16-18, 3/4L
22 X2-B7112 1
Head, 3
rd
Stage
47
6-A8780
1
Back Plate
23 XA54-A8595 1Fitting Assy, Inlet 48 52-A8779 1Yoke
24 X1-C2750 1
Cylinder Block, 1
st
Stage
49
7-A8782
1
Connecting Rod
25 XA515-B8448 1Relief Valve, 1
st
Stage

18 APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
PARTS BREAKDOWN
10
8
7
6
5
4
24 30
26 29 27 28
23
25
22
21
19
15
18
20
16
17
15
14 13 1112
1 2
13
9

19
APPLICABILITY [ABCD]
PARTS BREAKDOWN
Item Part Number Qty Description
120-4028 2Washer, #6, Zinc Pl.
232-4169 1Bolt, Round Head, #6-32, 1/2L, Zinc Pl.
332-6667 1Bolt, Round Head, #6-32, 3/4L, Zinc Pl.
4138-6148 1Cord Grip Fitting
570-D3319 1Base Plate
662-A8994 1Label, Front
776-5470 1Rocker Switch
8(see below) 1Pushbutton, Lighted
9167-6955 2Capacitor
10 32-1046 4Bolt, Hex Head,3/8-16, 1L
11 39-5751 4Rubber Bumper
12 32-4555 4Bolt, Round Head, #8-32, 1/2L, Zinc Pl.
13 38-C2837 1Coverplate, Base
14 53-1035 2Nut, Hex, #6-32, Zinc Pl.
15 53-1028 3Nut, Nylock, #6-32, Zinc Pl.
16 (see below) 1Relay, 115V
17 X76-5659 1Pressure Switch
18 X10-B7562 1Manifold Block
19 X54P-1/4CDS 1Street Elbow, 1/4 T
20 X515-61 1Relief Valve, 2400 psi
21 163-7586 1Circuit Breaker
22 32-4164 4Bolt, Round Head, #10-24, 1/2L, Zinc Pl.
23 X54P-229-64B 1Hose Barb Elbow
24 138-5705 1Electrical Connector
25 32-1184 2Bolt, Flat Head, #6-32, 1/2L, SS
26 X54P-44CBUSS 1Elbow, Male, 1/4 P
27 X455-B8446 1Tube Line, Discharge
28 X54P-4CBUSS 1Elbow, Male, 1/4 T
29 X6-4340 1Hose, Inlet (20" L)
30 79-6778 2Hose Clamp
876-5657 1Pushbutton, Lighted, 115 V
16 76-5655 1Relay, 115V
876-5658 1Pushbutton, Lighted, 230 V
16 76-5656 1Relay, 230V
Base Assembly
Accessory Group 115 Volt
Accessory Group 230 Volt

20 APPLICABILITY [ ABCD]
TECHNICAL
Compression occurs in three stages, all configured on a single stepped
piston. The first stage is 2.375 inches in diameter and compresses on the
upstroke discharging at a pressure about 250 psig. The second stage is
located directly under the first stage and has a diameter of 2.00 inches
compressing on the downstroke at a pressure of about 900 psig. The third
stage is .500 inches in diameter located above the first stage and compresses
on the upstroke to the final discharge pressure of 2,200 psig. Each stage is
provided with an inlet valve and a discharge valve. These one-way poppet
valves control the direction of gas flow from stage to stage. Relief valves are
also provided on each stage to prevent overpressurization in the event of a
poppet valve failure. The heat generated during compression is removed in
the cylinder block, which has a relatively large thermal mass and cooling
fins. Peak gas temperatures are held under 250 oF. A discharge pressure
switch shuts the compressor down when the pressure reaches the switch set
pressure, usually 2,200 psi.
3
rd
Stage Suction
Valve
3
rd
Stage Discharge
Valve
3rd Stage Outlet
2
nd
Stage
Suction Valve
1
st
Stage
Discharge Valve
Crankshaft
Piston
3rd Stage
1st Stage
2
nd
Stage
1
st
Stage
Relief Valve
2
nd
Stage
Relief Valve
YokeAssembly
AwwwAAAAssembly
Yoke
Assembly