Oil Free Air Compressors: Definition, Advantages and How Do They Work ?

Since many industries need compressed air that can power several types of tools, air compressors are always in high demand. However, the performance of the air compressor mostly depends on its type. That's why every industry must choose an air compressor suitable for the specific industry to leverage the maximum advantage of the product. 

When it comes to air compressors, you might have heard of two categories: oil-lubricated air compressors and oil-free air compressors. Oil-free air compressors are commonly found in garages, tool sheds, or other job site

Let's first understand what oil-free air compressors are

As the name indicates, an oil-free compressor is an air compressor that doesn't require oil. Instead, this air compressor has specific mechanical components with a coating of permanent lubricant material (it can be Teflon). Since oil is not required to lubricate, oil-free air compressors offer many advantages

Advantages of oil-free air compressors

• Clearer and drier air
• Easily portable
• Lighter in weight
• No requirement for oil filters
• Perform well even in cold weather
• Perform silently, generate less noise
• More efficient

Oil-lubricated air compressors Vs Oil-free air compressors

In general, air compressors use a piston to draw air in. The air is then compressed and placed in a storage tank. You can see why this oil is utilized since the piston chamber requires enough lubrication for maximum efficiency. These are called Oil-lubricated air compressors. However, when the cylinder is pre-lubricated for permanent lubrication, these are oil-free air compressors. 

Oil is used as a lubricant in oil air compressors. This implies that you must regularly add and change the oil for the machine to keep working. On the other hand, oil is not necessary for oil-free air compressors to be lubricated. Once you start using it, there is no need to change any oil. This is the main distinction between the two types of air compressors.

How Do Oil-free Air Compressors Work? 

Piston Compressors: A cylinder with a piston is a component of reciprocal piston compressors. A vacuum is formed at the top of the cylinder as the piston descends, and the air is subsequently pulled into the cylinder's top. The air's volume is reduced as the piston rises, yet its pressure is also raised. The now-compressed air is forced into the storage tank at the same time.

The mechanical parts of an oil-free piston compressor have Teflon coatings. Friction is decreased when these components come in contact with one another. As a result, the machine can operate without oil. An external fan on the pump housing is typically used to air-cool these.

Rotary Screw Compressors: Two threaded rotors are arranged side by side in the compression chamber of a rotary screw compressor. Each rotor's threads go in the opposite direction. On the other hand, the rotors are precisely positioned and constructed to avoid coming into touch with one another. Finally, the air is forced through the narrow space between the rotors, where it is compressed.

In an oil-free rotary screw compressor, the gearbox that drives the rotors frequently contains oil. No oil, however, may potentially enter the compression chamber because this is a separate, sealed chamber. Since the rotors do not touch one another, they do not need lubrication.

Do Oil-free air compressors Ever Require Oil?

Well, oil-free air compressors still require oil for lubrication purposes. The phrase "oil-free" basically means that there isn't any oil utilized in the compression chamber. Oil can still be used as a coolant or inside the gearbox. Interestingly, you might even need to replace the oil from time to time on some models.

Final Words

An oil-free air compressor can be the best choice if you're a DIY homeowner or contractor searching for a portable, lightweight, less noisy air compressor. However, it's crucial to Contact a certified expert to discuss your requirements to choose the correct type of air compressor. 

Click here to explore the vast collection of high-end air compressors at MasterAire. Alternatively, you can schedule a call to discuss your requirements !