Air compressors are vital mechanical devices that are used in various sectors to provide compressed air. When it comes to its types, lubricated and oil-free air compressors are the two that are widely used in different industrial and non-industrial applications. But, do you know how they differ from each other and how to choose one wisely?
In this comprehensive blog post, we will explore the difference between oil vs oil-free air compressors and how to choose them based on your needs.
A] What Is a Lubricated Air Compressor?
A lubricated air compressor, also known as an oil-injected or oil-lubricated air compressor, is a mechanical device used to reduce the volume of gas to increase its pressure. Lubricated air compressors use mineral or synthetic oil to reduce the friction of moving parts, such as pistons, cylinders, and connecting rods. It uses oil to lubricate, cool, and seal the internal components to ensure the compressor remains wear and tear-free throughout its lifespan. It also plays a vital role in dissipating heat generated by continuous operation, fostering the longevity and durability of oil-injected air compressors. These are commonly used to power various industrial and heavy-duty tasks.
B] What Is an Oil-Free Air Compressor?
A mechanical device that runs without any oil needs, is known as an oil-free air compressor or a non-lubricated air compressor. Unlike a lubricated air compressor, its compression chamber is lubricated with a special material, known as pre-lubricated Teflon, to lubricate the compression chamber to provide sustainable and contamination-free lubrication. It is widely known for its ample benefits, such as reduced cost, lower contamination level, eco-friendliness, and higher efficiency. Oil-free air compressors, also known as oil-less compressors, are commonly used in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, electronics manufacturing, and medical applications, among others.
C] Lubricated vs Oil-Free Air Compressor: Key Differences
1. Lubrication Mechanism
Lubricated air compressors use oil to lubricate, seal, and cool their compression parts. The comprehensive lubrication mechanism of an oil-less air compressor prevents air leakage, dissipates heat during compression, and reduces friction primarily. Ultimately, it ensures the compression operation runs smoothly without any wear or tear appearance.
When comparing oil vs oilless air compressors, oilless air compressors use a specialised lubrication mechanism to lubricate compression parts. It uses pre-lubricated Teflon (PTFE) as a coating to provide lubricity to compression elements. Its unique and structured layering allows compassion elements to slide smoothly, reducing the chances of wear and tear.
2. Maintenance Requirements
Lubricated air compressors are widely used in various industrial processes. They are known for their robustness and durability. However, they require maintenance as it is oil-lubricated. It includes oil changes, drive belt maintenance, air filter changes, and unloader valve checks, which are considered to be normal due to rigorous use.
On the other hand, an oil-free air compressor uses a specialised lubricating agent that reduces the requirements of the maintenance cycle to upkeep it. It produces less contamination due to not using the traditional way of lubrication. With an oil-less air compressor, users can leverage a simplified maintenance cycle as it doesn’t require oil changes, oil filter, or separator maintenance.
3. Air Purity
Though a lubricated air compressor is durable and cost-effective, its air purity is a bit compromised due to the comprehensive lubrication mechanism compared to the oil-free reciprocating air compressor. It injects oil to lubricate moving compression elements, where oil further mixes with compressed air, making the air a bit contaminated.
Whereas when comparing oil lubricated vs oil-free air compressors, oil-free compressors are known for their excellent air purity, as it doesn’t have a comprehensive lubricating mechanism like a lubricated air compressor. It uses specialised pre-lubricative material, which doesn’t carry forward with compressed air, making the air more pure and free from contamination.
4. Durability and Longevity
Lubricated air compressors are known for their durability and longevity, as oil lubrication significantly reduces friction and thus wear on moving parts. In addition to robust construction, less friction and reduced wear and tear also increase the durability and longevity of an oil-injected air compressor.
On the other hand, oil-free air compressors offer pure air and provide clean compressed air to critical applications, such as medical or food applications. However, these compressors are relatively less durable and have a shorter lifespan compared to lubricated air compressors.
5. Noise Levels
Lubricated reciprocating air compressors are the quieter compressors due to the comprehensive application of lubricants. Lubrication dampens sound that is produced during compression which leads to reduced noise levels.
Oil-free air compressors produce more noise compared to lubricated air compressors due to the limited lubrication scope. However, some technical advancements have been made to reduce noise levels from oil-less air compressors significantly.
6. Cost Considerations
Oil-injected air compressors come with an affordable upfront cost, offering cost-effective solutions for heavy-duty or industrial applications where the purity of air is not on priority. However, it requires a bit of investment to maintain its essential components due to the normal oil mechanism.
Oil free scroll air compressors are a bit expensive upfront but cost-effective in the long term as they require fewer maintenance cycles due to limited use of lubrication.
D] Pros and Cons: Oil vs Oil-Free Air Compressor
Features | Lubricated Air Compressor | Oil-free Air Compressor |
Lubrication | Uses oil for internal lubrication | Pre-lubricated materials, no external oil required |
Durability | Generally, more durable for heavy-duty use | Suitable for light to medium tasks |
Maintenance | Requires regular oil checks and changes | Low maintenance; no oil management needed |
Noise Level | Runs quieter due to better lubrication | Typically louder |
Air Purity | May have traces of oil in the output | Delivers 100% oil-free, clean air |
Initial Cost | Usually more expensive upfront | More affordable |
Operating Cost | Higher due to oil and filter replacements | Lower long-term cost |
Common Uses | Industrial, automotive, continuous-duty work | Food, medical, electronics, DIY applications |
E] Which Is Better: Oil or Oil-Free Air Compressor?
The best choice between oil and oil-free compressors depends on your specific needs:
- Usage Frequency: If you run your compressor frequently or for long durations (e.g., in manufacturing or auto repair shops), an oil-lubricated model is ideal due to its durability and longer lifespan. For occasional or short-term use, oil-free models are efficient and cost-effective.
- Industry Requirements: Industries like medical, food processing, and electronics demand ultra-clean air. In such cases, oil-free compressors are mandatory to prevent contamination. In contrast, construction or automotive industries often prefer oil-based units for their power and longevity.
- Budget: Oil-free compressors typically cost less upfront and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for budget-conscious buyers. However, oil compressors may offer better long-term value for heavy-duty needs despite higher maintenance costs.
- Need for Clean Air: For tasks requiring high air purity, such as painting, dental equipment, or pharmaceutical packaging, oil-free compressors are the clear winner.
Conclusion
We have discovered every aspect of oil vs oil-free air compressors and found that each compressor is suitable for diverse uses. Lubricated air compressors are suitable for heavy-duty applications whereas oil-free compressors are suitable for those applications where air purity is crucial. Whether you choose an oil or oil-free air compressor, Bimpex, a renowned air compressor supplier in Mumbai, has got you covered. We are sought after for our heavy-duty and cost-effective lubricated or oil-free air compressors. Contact us today!