What is air compressor oil?
2 Answers
Air compressor oil is the lubricant used in air compressors. An air compressor is a device that compresses gases. Its structure is similar to that of a water pump. Most air compressors are of the reciprocating piston type, with rotating blades or rotating screws. The following are the functions of air compressor oil: 1. Protective film: It forms a protective film between two friction pairs to prevent direct metal-to-metal contact, thereby buffering the effect of friction, providing lubrication, reducing wear, and ensuring normal mechanical operation. 2. Lubrication: This protective film can be a physical adsorption film, a chemical adsorption film, or an oxide film. The thickness and strength of the film directly affect the lubrication effect.
Air compressor oil is a specialized lubricant designed specifically for air compressors, which is different from the engine oil we commonly use. This type of oil must withstand high temperatures and high-pressure environments because it lubricates various metal components inside the compressor, such as pistons and bearings in rotating parts. Additionally, it helps dissipate heat to prevent the machine from overheating and burning out, while also forming a seal to ensure compression efficiency. The most common types I see are mineral oil and synthetic oil. Nowadays, factories mostly use fully synthetic oil, which, although more expensive, is more durable. Its oil change interval can last over 4,000 hours, significantly reducing downtime for maintenance.
