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.
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.
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