Oiled Vs. Oil-Less Air Compressors

Compressors are designed to function with or without the use of oil.

Air compressors have a piston system used to compress air. The friction created in these pistons produce heat. Protecting the compressor from heat requires some type of lubrication.

Oiled Compressor

Oiled compressors provide this lubrication by the use of oil. The oil keeps the pump running and aids in cooling the compressing system. Industrial compressors are mostly oiled compressors. One disadvantage is that occasionally oil can find its way into the air supply.

Oil-Less Compressor

The heat protection in oil-less compressors is accomplished by Teflon coating on the pistons. An advantage of the oil-less compressor is that it provides an oil-free air supply. This is beneficial when air compression is used in fields such as the food industry.

Oiled Vs. Oil-Less

Pumps in oiled compressors have pumps that work with an aluminum crank case. The aluminum case is non-corrosive, dissipates heat and is lightweight. Pumps in an oil-less compressor link directly to the motor. A Teflon coating used in an oil-less compressor produces very little friction, requiring no need for oil.

References

• 360 Machines: Air Compressor
• Tools in Action: Oil Free Vs. Oiled