First Start-Up & Commissioning Checklist – South-Tek Systems

Applies to: STS Series (5–30HP) · STSH Series · STSD · STSP · STSP2
The first operation of any South-Tek compressor must be performed by an authorized South-Tek service provider.

Pre-Startup Environment Check

Before energizing the unit, verify the installation environment meets the following conditions:

Ambient temperature: +33.8°F to +104°F (+1°C to +40°C)
Altitude: Not more than 3,280 ft above sea level
Humidity: Not to exceed 80%
Air quality: Clean, low-humidity, dust-free, with adequate ventilation
Hot air discharge: Hot exhaust air must be ducted away from the intake. Duct air resistance must not exceed 50 Pa (5 mm H₂O)
Floor: Level, vibration-free, sufficient load capacity for the compressor weight
Clearance: Sufficient space around all sides for maintenance access

▲ Attention If ambient temperature is at or below 32°F (0°C), the compressor control system will enter self-protection mode and prevent startup. The compressor room must be heated in cold weather conditions.

Compressed Air Line Connection

Connect piping from the compressor outlet to the dryer, air tank, and distribution network per the installation diagram.
Use a flexible hose or compensator at the compressor air outlet to absorb vibration and stress. Rigid connections that transfer stress to the air/oil cooler will cause cooler damage.
All pipe connections downstream of the compressor outlet must be tension-free and unstrained.
All hoses, fittings, and piping must be rated for the compressor's maximum operating pressure.

Note — STS Tank-Mounted Models: For STS-T series (tank-mounted), verify the integrated tank connections, drain valve, and safety valve are correctly installed and functional before proceeding.

Electrical Connection

⚠ Warning All electrical work must be performed by a qualified, licensed electrician. Verify available plant voltage matches the compressor nameplate before connecting power.

Check mains voltage at all three phases with a voltmeter. There must be no voltage fluctuation between phases.
Select cable cross-section accounting for voltage drop losses over the cable run length.
Install an appropriately rated circuit breaker in close proximity to the compressor.
Protect the mains panel against short circuit.
Verify all terminal connections are tight throughout the wiring and the compressor electrical panel.
Confirm proper grounding. The ground connection must comply with applicable standards.
Check motor thermal settings.
The compressor electrical panel requires L1, L2, L3/N and PE mains connections.

Note — STSH Series: Electrical panels are UL certified (NITW.E532921 & NITW7.E532921) and manufactured to UL 508A and CSA C22.2 No. 14 standards.

Oil Level Check

⚠ Warning Oil may be lost during shipping, installation, or handling. If the compressor runs out of oil, the screw assembly rotors can seize within seconds. Always verify oil level before the first start.

Check the oil level sight glass on the separator tank. Oil must be at or near the upper limit of the sight glass window.
If oil level is low, add the correct oil type (see the label on the compressor) until the oil reaches near the upper limit of the sight glass.
Never mix different brands or types of oil.

Water Line Connection (Heat Exchanger / Water-Cooled Models Only)

▲ Attention Before first start on any water-cooled or heat recovery model, establish and activate the water line circuit first. Operating with only the oil circuit active will damage the heat exchanger.

First Start Sequence

Remove the suction hose at the suction control valve. Open the suction flap and add 1–5 liters of the correct compressor oil into the airend inlet depending on airend size. Rotate the airend 1–2 turns by hand in the direction of rotation so oil fills the rotor pockets. Reinstall the suction hose and clamp securely.
Open the air outlet valve.
Energize the compressor. Run it briefly, then stop immediately. Verify the fan and main motor are rotating in the correct direction. If the controller displays a Phase Sequence Fault, the unit will not start — swap any two supply phase connections and recheck.
Check all AirMASTER FORM controller parameters for correct configuration.
Restart the compressor and allow it to run. Monitor for any abnormal vibration, noise, or leaks.
After running under load for several minutes, stop the compressor and recheck the oil level. Top up if needed.
Check all air line, water line (if applicable), and oil line connections for leaks.

ℹ Note The recommended control air operating pressure is 6 bar (87 psi). The pressure regulator at the suction control valve is pre-set to this value. Do not adjust it. Verify this setting while running.

Post-Commissioning Verification

Motor rotation direction confirmed correct
Fan rotation direction confirmed correct
No phase sequence fault on controller
Oil level at upper sight glass limit
No air, oil, or water leaks detected
No abnormal vibration or noise
Control air pressure confirmed at 6 bar at suction control valve
AirMASTER FORM controller parameters verified
Compressor loads and unloads at correct set pressures
Automatic stop (idle timer) functioning correctly
For water-cooled units: water flow confirmed, exchanger and lines leak-free
All cabinet doors closed and latched

For assistance with commissioning, contact South-Tek Systems: (910) 415-1880 or support@southteksystems911.zendesk.com