Is the semiconductor oil-free air compressor really oil-free?

Are oil-free air compressors really oil-free? What air purity grades does it have? Oil-free air compressors are generally used to produce various sensitive products, such as semiconductors, medicines, and food. In such applications, even small amounts of oil in the compressed air can have harmful effects on the product and even the human body.

What are the different air purity levels for oil-free air compressors?

Grade 0 oil-free and "technically oil-free" are usually used to mean that the compressor meets certain standards. While these terms are similar, they have key differences that, if not taken into account, can lead to serious consequences. To better understand all this, let's delve into the meaning of "oil-free:

grade 0 oil-free and "technically oil-free" indicate the cleanliness of the compressed air. There are significant differences between the two, which we will explain below.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has developed global standards for compressed air specifically for industrial and commercial use. Compressed air can be sorted from ISO 0-5 levels according to air purity (determined by the number and size of particles per cubic meter of air). The original version of the ISO compressed air purity standard (1991) was compiled by the filter manufacturer. The standard defines five classes of oil concentration, of which class 1 is preferred.

ISO Class 1-Technically oil-free air

class 1 specifies an oil concentration of 0.01 mg/m & sup3; at 1 bara (14.5psia) and 20°C (68F), which meets this standard and is known at the time as a "technically oil-free solution". However, this standard was edited in 2001 and updated in 2010. The new standard sets limits for the total oil content (aerosols, liquids and vapours) and introduces a specific standard for the measurement of oil vapours.

ISO Class 0-Oil-free air

the new standard also adds a new category (Class 0) to meet more stringent air quality requirements. ISO Class 0 represents a high level of compressed air quality, which can guarantee 100% oil-free air.

What are the different air purity levels for oil-free air compressors?

There are also some erroneous claims in the industry, promoting oil-injected compressors with filters, calling them "technically oil-free" and claiming that the air quality is better than oil-free compressors. These claims are untrue and improper selection of the compressor may result in damage to sensitive products or equipment.

When choosing an oil-free air compressor, be sure to choose a 0-stage oil-free compressor instead of "technically oil-free". Oil-free compressors are usually much more expensive, but they are safer to use in sensitive applications. With Class 0 oil-free compressors, you can ensure that compressed air does not contaminate end equipment and products. When selecting oil-injected or oil-free air compressors, seek advice from a compressed air professional.