Posted on Leave a comment

What advantages can a synthetic air compressor oil offer?

Air compressor oil can be bought in two different types, synthetic and standard, and each has characteristics that distinguish them. A standard air compressor oil uses a mineral oil as its base. Typically, it is far less expensive than its synthetic counterpart and is recommended intermittent use of compressors rather than those that must work continuously.

As the name suggests, synthetic air compressor oils employ a synthetic base. This type of oil undergoes extensive processing, making a more refined product than standard air compressor oil. The professional choice, synthetic oils empower users to constantly run their compressors. Users will also find operation is both quieter and smoother, and that equipment enjoys protection from overheating.

Read on as we examine the wide range of benefits that users can discover using synthetic air compressor oil in different applications.

What are the key advantages of using synthetic oils with rotary screw air compressors?

Synthetic air compressor oil is an ideal option for applications involving rotary screw-type equipment. It can substantially increase the service life of a rotary screw air compressor, extending its lifespan by a staggering 8,000 hours.

Users will also find they experience far fewer deposits when they opt for synthetic solutions. Synthetic air compressor oil can cut down unwanted deposits of sludge and varnish, which are commonly the cause of premature wear and can have a negative impact on how a rotary screw air compressor performs.

Synthetic oils are also able to keep cooler during air compressor operation and typically produce an air discharge at a far lower temperature than standard compressor oils. Another advantage of choosing a synthetic oil is that this man-made lubrication is usually consumed at a much slower rate. Users can reduce their annual lubrication costs, as they will not need to top up their oil supply as often.

What are the benefits of synthetic oil for reciprocating air compressors?

Those selecting a synthetic air compressor oil for an application involving reciprocating air compressors will also discover certain advantages.

Less carbon accumulation occurs when using a synthetic oil with this type of compressor. The oils work effectively to reduce the volume of carbon building up on the air compressors valves and to substantially decrease feed rates. Users deploying synthetic products will also enjoy safer operation. This is because the flashpoints and temperatures where auto-ignition will occur are far higher in synthetic air compressor oils.

Synthetic oils also assist by mitigating the premature wearing of pistons and packings from happening. This invaluable attribute can help to significantly extend the active service life of the reciprocating air compressor.

How often should you change the oil in an air compressor?

How frequently your oil intervals should take place will depend on the type of compressor you use. Always study your equipment’s user manual for guidance. There, you will find detailed information regarding the oil specification for the compressor.

As a rough guide, you should ideally change the oil in rotary screw compressors after between 7,000 and 8,000 hours of active use, and after three months for reciprocating air compressors.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.