A recent study released by DataM Intelligence projects robust future growth for the refrigeration oil market.
Researchers assessed that the sector would experience steady growth rising from around $1.7 billion to $2.9 billion between 2025 and 2035.
A critical fluid for effectively operating refrigeration compressor systems, refrigeration compressor oil is a multi-purpose solution. It lubricates moving components but also forms a pressure seal between the low- and high-pressure sides of the compressor. Furthermore, it acts as a coolant while protecting parts from extreme temperatures.
Multiple brands produce compressor oil, including Icematic from CPI Fluid Engineering.
The new study found that market growth is being propelled by extended cold chain infrastructure, greater use of cooling systems with an energy-efficient design and the ongoing move towards using more eco-compliant technologies to refrigerate. It cited numerous industries that use refrigeration systems featuring compressors that increasingly need the specialised lubricant, including healthcare, pharma and food and beverage manufacturing.
Key developments in the refrigeration compressor oil industry that informed the report were also detailed. The study noted that German lubricant maker, Fuchs Petrolub, expanded its Asian production capacity in July 2025 to answer increasing demand for refrigeration compressor oil in the region. It also mentioned that Chevron, owner of the Texaco lubricant brand, had developed new polyalphaolefin (PAO) blends via its venture with Chevron Phillips Chemical. The new blends were specially formulated to enhance compressor efficiency and align with the upward market trend, supporting growth.
