Most machines require a certain kind of oil as it plays an important role in the smooth functioning of the machines. Similarly, air compressors also require a particular grade of oil for optimal performance. Choosing the right oil for an air compressor can help its performance in many ways that include reducing energy consumption, reducing friction, and increasing its lifespan. In this article, we will tell you everything about why air compressor oil is unique and which type of oil is best suited for your air compressor.
Table of Contents
What is air compressor oil?
Air compressor oil can be defined as the oil used in the air compressor is a specialized lubricant that is used to prevent untimely wear and tear of the machine. Air compressor oils are available in two variants – natural and synthetic, and they differ in terms of viscosity, and other additives. The most significant difference between air compressor oil and motor oil is that the oil used in air compressors contains far less amount of sulfur and carbon and is completely devoid of any kinds of detergents, as opposed to motor oil.
The Importance of Using the Right Oil
Using the right kind of standard air compressor oil can offer several benefits, including but not limited to –
Heat Absorption
Every machine, including air compressors, release heat when running. And air compressor oil absorbs a lot of the heat to keep the overall temperature of the compressor low
Oxidation Resistance
The additives that air compressors oil comes with delay the process of oxidation and acid formation
Increased Lifespan
The additives also increase the lifespan of the lubricant and make the lubricant compatible with several variants of the compressor. It thereby increases the lifespan of the compressor. Additionally, it protects various components of the machine when on standby
Viscosity in Low Temperatures
Air compressor oils are capable of maintaining the right viscosity even in cold temperature helping compressors to function properly
Demulsification
The additives also help in water separation protecting the compressor from water and oil emulsion
Anti-Foaming Capability
Big oxygen bubbles rising to the surface of the oil create foam. This increases the oxidation process as the oil surface gets exposed to more oxygen. Without anti-foaming capabilities, the oxidation process will reduce the lifespan of the compressor.
Which air compressor oil is the right type for you?
Air compressor oils are available in two variants – Standard and synthetic and they both have very distinct properties:
Standard Air Compressor
Standard compressor oil is made up of mineral oil bases. This makes standard oils more affordable compared to synthetic oils. Standard oils are best suited for low to medium load compressors, especially the ones used for home applications where they are not used on a very regular basis.
Synthetic Air Compressor
These are made of a synthetic base and undergo a lot of processing before the final product is made. Thus, it is more refined than standard oils. Synthetic oil is better for compressors that function for long hours and take the heavy-duty load as synthetic oils are more efficient in terms of enhancing the compressor’s performance. They keep the temperature of the compressor low, making them run smoothly, and without creating much noise.
Synthetic oil is also recommended for reciprocating and rotary screw compressors. Some of the main benefits of using synthetic oil for rotary screw compressors include:
- Longer lifespan: Synthetic oil can increase the lifespan of a rotary screw compressor to almost 8,000 hours
- Fewer deposits: Deposits like sludge and varnish that result in premature wear and tear of a compressor and reduces its performance is reduced considerably by synthetic oils
- Cooler temperature: Synthetic oils maintain a low temperature, increasing the efficiency of the compressor
- Lesser consumption: Synthetic oils are absorbed by the compressor at a much slower rate making them more cost-effective
While synthetic oil provides all these benefits to rotary screw compressors, reciprocating compressors also can utilize synthetic oil for the following advantages:
- Reduced accumulation of carbon: Synthetic oils reduce carbon accumulation on the valves reducing the feed rate
- Safe to operate: Since the flashpoints and auto-ignition temperatures are high for synthetic oils, they are a lot safer to operate
- Longer lifespan: Synthetic oil prevents the piston from untimely wear and tear and increases its shelf life
Alternatives to air compressor oils
- Hydraulic oil: Lower viscosity in cold temperatures, and reduced oxidation makes hydraulic oil a perfect substitute
- Automatic transmission fluid: ATF reduces wear and tear, stop breakdowns, and cools the machine components making it a perfect alternative. While ATF is mostly used in car transmissions, but it can also be used in air compressors
- Motor oil: Use a non-detergent motor oil if using it as an alternative for air compressor oil as the detergents can cause damage to the compressor
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Air Compressor Oil
How frequently should I change the oil in my air compressor?
The frequency of changing your compressor oil will depend on the kind of machine you have. Usually, the user manual provided by the manufacturer provides the required details and has enough information. Generally, rotary screw air compressors require oil change for every 7000-8000 hours of performance and reciprocating air compressors after every three months. Depending on the varying degree of usage, the oil should be changed at least once every year. If your air compressor usage is on the higher side, then following the user manual is the best bet.
Can 10W30 be used in my air compressor?
Most manufacturers and air compressor experts believe that oils without detergents are best suited for air compressors. And since 10W30 consists of detergents, it is advised not to be used. Additionally, the weight and viscosity also differ from the requirements of the manufacturers. Air compressor oils are significantly different from the ones used in automotive. The oil used in automotive contains detergents that aid the machine’s engine, but a similar oil in an air compressor will emulsify causing severe damage to the machine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Compressor Oil
How often should I change the oil in my air compressor?
In most cases a rotary screw air compressor oil must be changed every 1,000 to 2,000 service hours. In case of a reciprocating air compressor, it is suggested that you change the oil once every three months. Timely changing the air compressor oil will ensure better pressure and efficiency.
What oil should be used in an air compressor?
When it comes to choosing the best air compressor oil, you can opt for mineral oil or synthetic oil. While mineral oil is considered to be ideal for smaller air compressors, synthetic oil is considered the best for industrial air compressors.
What happens if you don’t change air compressor oil?
If the air compressor oil isn’t changed on time, it will start accumulating dirt. Eventually, this will impact the oil’s lubrication properties, thereby resulting in quicker wear and tear of the motor. If you still don’t change the oil, there is a chance that the compressor element will fail.
Why do rotary screw air compressors need oil?
In a rotary screw air compressor, the air compressor system is known to accomplish the following parts –
- It lubricates the moving parts within the compressor
- Air compressor oil helps creates a seal between rotors to trap air
- It prevents premature wear and tear of parts
- Air compressor oil helps cool air during compression
What elements should I take into account when selecting air compressor oil?
Consider the design and specifications of the compressor, the working temperature range, the need for lubrication, and the kind of compressor (reciprocating, rotary screw, etc.) before selecting air compressor oil.
How do I determine the amount of oil in my air compressor?
One can use a sight glass or dipstick on air compressors to ascertain the oil level. Remove the dipstick or check the oil level through the sight glass after turning the compressor off and letting it cool. Check that the oil level is within the advised range.
What are the typical types of oils used in air compressors?
Mineral-based oils, synthetic oils, and mixes are among the frequently used types of air compressor oils. Mineral-based oils are cost-effective and suitable for general-purpose applications.
Synthetic oils offer enhanced performance regarding lubrication, oxidation resistance, and extended service life. Blends combine the benefits of mineral and synthetic oils, striking a balance between performance and affordability.
How do I determine the viscosity of an air compressor oil?
The oil’s thickness determines its viscosity, a crucial factor in lubricating the compressor’s moving parts. Lubricants with viscosity ranges, such as ISO VG 32 or ISO VG 46, are typically needed for air compressors. Doing this ensures proper lubrication and minimizes the compressor’s friction and wear.
Why is conducting an oil analysis essential?
The operating circumstances, consumption volume, and kind of oil used by the compressor, among other variables, all affect how frequently oil needs to be changed.
Conducting an oil analysis helps to establish the ideal oil change interval. Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations is also advised. Routine maintenance, including oil changes, ensures proper lubrication and maximizes the compressor’s lifespan.
Is it possible to combine various air compressor oils?
Unless the manufacturer specifically states it is permissible, mixing several air compressor oils is often not advised. Mixing oils with different formulations or viscosities can compromise lubrication effectiveness and potentially lead to oil breakdown or component damage.
Unless specified in their instructions otherwise, you should only use the one type of oil that the manufacturer recommends.
Leave A Comment