Compressor oil is used to lubricate machines known as compressors. These are pieces of equipment that heighten the pressure of process fluid like gas or air. They work by transmitting velocity to a gas stream and then converting it into energy.
Oil is very important to the running of a compressor as it helps to seal, lubricate and regulate the temperature of the moving components. It is for these reasons, that it is vital to use the correct compressor oils in an appropriate manner. There are a number of factors you should take into account when looking at these oils:
Using the correct oil
There are many different kinds of compressor oil on the market made by prominent names like Shell, Fuchs and Mobil. It is important that you choose the right one if you want your machinery to run at its very best.
Depending on the type of compressor you are using, you will need to vary your choice of oil. For example, some compressors will require you to use a very viscous lubricant, whilst others will need to be much more fluid. It is always a good idea to consult your machinery’s manual before looking for an oil to match.
Anti-corrosive
The best compressor oils to use on machinery that will be coming into contact with water, moisture and other liquids is one which offers good rust and corrosion protection, like the Mobil EAL Arctic 22 oils which most reputable sources will have for sale.
Demulsibility
Compressor oils with demulsibility properties are also good for use in environments where there will be an excess of moisture as the oil absorbs it, allowing machinery to continue to work to its full potential even in wet or humid conditions.
Buying compressor oil
Once you know which kind of oil you require, it is always advisable to buy a reputable brand of oil from a good industrial oil retailer, as this will give you the best chance of buying an oil that will keep your machinery going for a long time.
Cleaning your machinery
Once you have selected the correct oil and you have your compressor up and running, it is very important that you clean your equipment as per the manual on a very regular basis. This will help to reduce the number of contaminants that make their way into your oil.
When compressor oil is overloaded with dusts and dirt it has to work much harder than it would otherwise, which can put a great strain on your air compressor, causing it to malfunction much more rapidly.
