Compressor oil is directly related to the performance and longevity of air compressors.
Each compressor oil – manufactured by brands such as Mobil and Total – has its own operating temperature. When oil temperatures are elevated above and beyond this temperature range, there is a risk to system integrity, potentially causing overheating or component failure.
In this article, we take a look at what happens to compressor oil when it gets too warm.
Viscosity degradation
When compressor oil is used in an environment that exceeds recommended temperatures, its viscosity – that is, its resistance to flow – can decrease, and this impacts its ability to provide adequate lubrication between the metal surfaces of compressor parts, reducing capacity.
As a result, the lack of proper lubrication can cause issues with a system; increasing friction, wear, and ultimately increasing the chance of component failure. For heavy-duty equipment, or equipment used continuously, this can reduce its working life or even cause costly damage.
Oil oxidation
Aside from mechanical wear, excessive heat also accelerates oil oxidation. Oxidised oil generates acids and sludge. This corrodes internal components, clogs oil pathways and degrades seals, making them work harder. This all adds up to a drop in performance and the likelihood of increased maintenance costs.
Carbon deposits
There is also the issue of carbon deposits caused by the thermal breakdown of compressor oil that is exposed to increasing temperatures.
Carbon deposits that result from this process can build up on internal components such as valves and pistons. These deposits disrupt heat transfer and airflow, having a negative effect on system performance and potentially causing unforeseen shutdowns.
In facilities that rely on compressed air for production processes, the consequences can range from expensive delays, quality control problems and increased energy consumption.
How to prevent compressor oil from overheating
Choosing a high-quality, thermally stable synthetic oil designed for industrial compressors and capable of operating within a wide temperature range should be seen as the main measure in avoiding the problem of compressor oil overheating. By the same token, it is also a necessity that equipment operates within the manufacturer’s recommended thermal range, both in order to receive the maximum working life from the equipment and stay within warranty coverage.
Proactive maintenance strategies – including regular monitoring of oil temperature, viscosity and contamination levels – should also be a given, helping to detect early signs of overheating.
