What kind of oil should be used for an air compressor pump?
2 Answers
It mainly depends on the type of air compressor. Small air pumps generally use mechanical oil, with viscosity not too high. For compressors above 0.6 cubic meters, special air compressor oil should be used. For high-pressure compressors or those with large air production in factories that operate continuously, the oil number specified in the manual should be selected, usually model 32 or 46. There are also mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil, and full synthetic oil, which should be selected based on the region and the size of the air compressor. Below is relevant information: Maintenance items: For new machines, the lubricating oil must be replaced after 5 hours of operation, and then every 500 hours of operation thereafter. Check the lubricating oil daily and open the drain valve of the air storage tank once a day to discharge oil and water. Clean or replace the air filter element every half month, which can be adjusted according to the environment. Air compressor: Air compressor generally refers to a device used to compress gas. The structure of an air compressor is similar to that of a water pump. Most air compressors are reciprocating piston type, rotary vane, or rotary screw. Centrifugal compressors are used for very large applications.
I usually maintain my own air compressor for car repairs, and I frequently change the oil to prevent the machine from breaking down. Air compressors typically require specialized compressor oil, such as SAE 30 or mineral oil; never use regular automotive engine oil, as it may corrode the components. From my experience, high-viscosity oils like ISO VG 100 work best, providing excellent lubrication and preventing internal wear. Always check the oil level before inflating—if it’s too low, top it up immediately. I recommend referring to the compressor manufacturer’s manual, which usually lists the recommended oil brands. I often use standard mineral oil—it’s affordable and easy to find—but synthetic oil lasts longer and is better suited for high-frequency use. Change the oil every six months or 500 hours to extend the pump’s lifespan, ensuring it won’t fail unexpectedly when you’re out inflating tires.
