Vacuum pump oil and compressor oil are both lubricants used in industrial settings. However, although they may appear similar, they serve different purposes.
Each oil has distinct chemical properties tailored to specific equipment. Using the correct oil is important not only for performance, but also to prevent costly damage.
In this mini guide, we provide a breakdown of what each oil is designed for and why they should never be used interchangeably.
Vacuum pump oil
Purpose and design
Vacuum pump oil – manufactured by brands such as Petronas – is specifically designed for use in vacuum pumps, which are used to remove air and other gases from a sealed environment to create a vacuum.
These oils can provide lubrication under low-pressure conditions and will come into contact with gases and vapours that the pump captures and removes. Vacuum pump oil also cools the pump and prevents wear.
Key properties
Vacuum pump oil is engineered to have excellent thermal stability and strong resistance to oxidation. It resists contamination and degradation, which is especially important in harsh or chemically reactive environments. The oil acts as a lubricant and helps to seal internal components.
Applications
Vacuum oil is commonly used in rotary vane, piston and diffusion pumps across a range of industries; from laboratories and pharmaceutical production, to refrigeration systems.
Compressor oil
Purpose and design
Compressor oil – made by brands such as CPI Fluid Engineering – is designed for air compressors that compress air or gas under high pressure. These systems operate under entirely different pressure and temperature conditions from vacuum pumps. This oil’s key purposes are to lubricate, cool and prevent wear.
Key properties
Compressor oil has very good thermal and oxidative stability, effectively separating it from moisture. Oil for some compressors also requires anti-wear additives or detergents.
Application
It is typically used in industrial air systems, refrigeration compressors and automotive AC (air conditioning) systems.
Why they shouldn’t be used interchangeably
Despite their similarities, vacuum pump oil and compressor oil are not interchangeable. Using the wrong oil can lead to potentially severe consequences including; performance issues, in the absence of the correct lubrication and sealing for equipment; equipment failure, when machinery or tools shut down (for example, if compressor oil in a vacuum pump vaporises too quickly); and contamination, caused by the unsuitable formula of the oil used.
For the reasons outlined above, it is vital that industrial oils are used with the correct equipment and for the right application.
