What oil is added to the air compressor depends mainly on the type of air compressor, the working environment and the manufacturer's recommendation. Generally speaking, the choice of air compressor oil can be considered from the following aspects:
1. oil type
- mineral oil (mineral base motor oil):
- mineral oil is a traditional type of motor oil suitable for general air compressor applications.
- They generally have a lower cost, but may be less stable under high temperature and high load conditions.
- synthetic oil:
- synthetic oil is a motor oil made by chemical synthesis or processing, which has better performance and stability.
- Synthetic oil can provide better lubrication performance, oxidation resistance and anti-foaming performance in a wider temperature range, so it is suitable for air compressors under high temperature, high pressure and severe working conditions.
- semi-synthetic oil:
- semi-synthetic oil is a mixture of mineral oil and synthetic oil, combining the advantages of both.
- They provide better performance and stability, and have a lower cost under normal operating conditions.
2. specific type and viscosity grade
- piston air compressor:
- air compressor oil of viscosity grade 100 to 150 is usually used.
- These oils can meet the lubrication requirements of piston air compressors in high temperature and high pressure environments.
- Slide air compressor:
- it is recommended to use a compressor oil with a viscosity grade of 68 to 100.
- These oils help reduce the friction between the sliding vane and the cylinder wall and improve the working efficiency of the air compressor.
- Screw air compressor:
- commonly used oil with a viscosity grade of 32 to 46.
- The screw air compressor has high requirements for oil cleanliness and lubrication performance, so it is very important to choose the right oil to extend the life of the equipment.
3. other considerations
- manufacturer's recommendations: No matter which type of oil is selected, it should be selected according to the recommendations and requirements of the air compressor manufacturer. Manufacturers usually provide specific oil recommendations, including viscosity grade and performance requirements.
- Working environment: The working environment of the air compressor will also affect the choice of oil. For example, air compressors working in high temperature environments need to choose oils with better oxidation resistance.
- Performance requirements: The lubricating performance, cleaning and dispersing performance, corrosion and rust resistance of the oil are also factors to be considered when choosing the oil. These properties are directly related to the operating efficiency and life of the air compressor.
To sum up, what oil to add to the air compressor needs to be determined according to the specific situation. When choosing oil, the type of air compressor, the working environment and the manufacturer's recommendation should be comprehensively considered to ensure the normal operation of the air compressor and extend its service life.
