Air compressor

Compressor lubrication

Compressed air is an integral part of our daily lives. It can be used as blowing air or as a source of energy, and is used to power or produce many of the objects that surround us.

Compressed air is a gas used to transport and store pneumatic energy. Air is extracted from the atmosphere and compressed using a compressor, so that it can be maintained at a pressure higher than that of the atmosphere. The compressed air is then distributed throughout the workshop via a network of pipes to the equipment requiring this compressed air as a source of energy.


Compressed air is known as the fourth industrial fluid after electricity, natural gas and water.

For air compression, there are several types of compressor.

Screw, piston and vane compressors are the most widely used.
 

aircompressor

For every application, it's important to choose the right type of compressor


The choice of compressor type is important, but lubrication of the various compressor components is also essential.

Compressor oil is a lubricant specially designed for air compressors and compression systems. These oils are essential to ensure the smooth running and durability of air compressors, which are widely used in a variety of industrial, commercial and domestic applications.

Here are some of the important functions and characteristics of compressor oil:

  1. Lubrication: Compressor oil lubricates moving parts inside the compressor, such as pistons, cylinders and bearings, reducing wear and extending equipment life.
  2. Cooling: In addition to lubrication, compressor oil helps cool components by dissipating heat generated by compressor operation.
  3. Sealing: Helps maintain an effective seal between moving parts and cylinder walls, essential for efficient air compression.
  4. Corrosion protection: Compressor oil protects internal metal surfaces against corrosion and oxidation, which is particularly important in environments where compressed air may contain moisture.
  5. Thermal and chemical stability: It must maintain its properties at high temperatures and resist chemical degradation due to the presence of oxygen and other contaminants.

 

Types of compressor oils

There are different types of compressor oil to suit different types of compressor (e.g. reciprocating, screw, vane, etc.) and operating conditions. 
It's important to choose the right oil based on the compressor manufacturer's specifications, application requirements and operating environment.  In addition, it is advisable to follow the recommended maintenance intervals for oil replacement and monitoring to ensure optimum compressor performance and long service life.

Browse through our ranges below and don't hesitate to contact our experts using the form below.

ALTERNA: Premium lubricants, ash-free mineral base, for the lubrication of reciprocating air compressors and vacuum pumps.
BAR SY: Semi-synthetic, high-viscosity index lubricants for rotary or reciprocating air compressors, enabling extended drain intervals.  
SUPRABAR SY: Synthetic lubricants for modern air compressors operating in very severe conditions, enabling extended drain intervals. Their high viscosity index means they can be used over a wide temperature range.
VIS: Premium ashless lubricants specifically designed for the lubrication of rotary air compressors. 

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