Your air compressor plays a very vital role in the energy usage of your organisation. By lubricating your air compressor properly, you help to prevent maintenance costs and high energy usage.
A well-lubricated air compressor will function more reliably and will help your processes to be more effective. Lubrication depends on the type of air compression, its operating environment and its application but all compressors benefit from sufficient lubrication as this minimises friction.
Friction results in more heat production, demanding more energy to cool your machine. Your compressor lubricant should always have a high enough viscosity index (VI) to withstand high operating temperatures. The higher the VI of your lubricant, the better your air compressor will be able to operate at higher temperatures.
Good lubricant should have an adequate flash point and pour point to ensure correct flow and operation at any temperature. It should also have high oxidative and thermal stability for longevity. This prevents oxidation and the formation of varnish and sludge which negatively affect your compressor’s functioning.
Lubrication with great wear protection helps to keep your parts moving smoothly, especially when you have very large loads, pressures or shocks. By minimising your wear, your components last much longer and there is less of a chance of downtime and unnecessary maintenance or repairs.
Good water separation in a lubricant helps tremendously in humid operating environments because if your water and oil do not separate, the water could decrease the lubricant’s viscosity, operating abilities and promote the formation of rust and corrosion of compressor parts.
Finally, it is important that your lubrication is resistant to air entrainment and foam- ing. Air entrainment results in small air bubbles in the lubricant and foaming causes a permanent layer of bubbles on top of the lubricant. Always bear in mind that your lubricant should have the above characteristics for proper functioning of your compressor!