What is an oil free air compressor?
An oil free air compressor is a type of air compressor that does not use oil in the compression chamber. These compressors have gained popularity in various industrial applications due to their clean, efficient, and low maintenance operation.
What is an oil lubricated air compressor?
An oil lubricated air compressor is a type of air compressor that uses oil in its operation. This oil serves various functions within the compressor and is commonly used in many industrial and commercial applications.
Differences between oil free air compressor and oil lubricated air compressor
The differences that separated oil lubricated and oil free compressors years ago aren’t the same today, even though the terminology hasn’t changed that much. However, there seems to be unnecessary confusion because some people compare all different types of compressors at once when in fact the debate, at its core, is really about the most common type.
1. Lubrication:
Oil Free Air Compressor:
These compressors do not use oil in the compression chamber.
Lubrication free components are employed, such as self lubricating materials and non metallic materials.
Suitable for applications where oil contamination is a concern, such as in the food, pharmaceutical, and electronics industries.
Oil Lubricated Air Compressor:
Oil is used for lubricating moving parts, such as pistons and bearings, within the compressor pump.
Lubrication is necessary to reduce friction and wear on components.
Not suitable for applications where oil free air is required, as oil contamination can be a concern.
2. Contaminant Free Air:
Oil Free Air Compressor:
Provides completely oil free compressed air, making it ideal for applications where air quality is critical.
Oil Lubricated Air Compressor:
There is a potential for oil carryover, which can contaminate the compressed air. Oil separators and coalescing filters are used to reduce oil content, but they may not provide completely oil free air.
3. Maintenance:
Oil Free Air Compressor:
Generally, oil free compressors require less maintenance compared to oil lubricated compressors.
Minimal oil changes and filter replacements are needed.
Oil Lubricated Air Compressor:
Requires regular oil changes and filter replacements to maintain proper lubrication and prevent oil contamination of the compressed air.
In fact, oilless compressors are preferred in extreme cold because there’s no worry about the oil turning to sludge. On the other hand, oiled compressors may be desired if working in extreme heat and humidity, because they can dissipate heat more quickly in a given duty cycle and resist rust build up.
After years of accumulated production, research and development experience, KITO has achieved the best production process standards. Through strict inspection and monitoring throughout the entire process from trial production to finished products, we ensure that the quality of them meets the standards and customers’ requirements.