Lubricating oil for air compressors is an item requiring inspection or replacement during routine maintenance and servicing. The core rationale for periodic replacement lies in its gradual degradation and contamination over extended lubrication periods, leading to a progressive decline in its lubricating, cooling, and sealing capabilities.
How to select a lubricant brand? The core principle should be compatibility with the air compressor type, such as screw or piston compressors, while also considering operating conditions including pressure and temperature factors, alongside manufacturer specifications. The following are recommendations for selecting lubricant brands:
Different air compressor brands feature distinct rotor clearances and operating conditions. Lubricants supplied by the original manufacturer undergo targeted testing to ensure optimal compatibility. For example:
Elang Air Compressors: Prioritise the manufacturer's dedicated screw compressor lubricant, which is tailored to Elang's rotor structure and sealing system, ensuring consistent maintenance intervals.
Atlas Copco, Sullair, and similar brands: Select the corresponding original manufacturer's lubricant to prevent faults caused by oil viscosity mismatch.
| Compressor Type | Lubricant Type | Core Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Screw Compressor | Synthetic Screw-specific Oil | Good high-temperature stability, strong anti-emulsification ability, low carbon deposit tendency |
| Piston Compressor | Reciprocating Compressor Oil | Good anti-wear and sealing properties, suitable for piston ring conditions |
This table data is for reference only. Consult technical professionals for specific lubricant selection.
Updated: October 2025 | Data Source: Elang Equipment Maintenance Manual
International Brands: Shell, Castrol, FUCHS. These brands offer product lines covering virtually all types of air compressors, with consistently reliable quality.
Chinese Brands: Great Wall, Kunlun. Offering excellent value for money, they meet the daily requirements of small to medium-sized air compressors.
Specialised Brands: Elang air compressors recommend using either TOTAL or Shell. For screw compressors, Atlas Copco genuine oil or Sullair AWF offer strong compatibility.
Never mix lubricants of different brands or types, as this may cause chemical reactions leading to degradation.
Consult the air compressor manual: for synthetic oils, change intervals are 2000–4000 hours; for mineral oils, 500–1000 hours.
Additionally, in harsh operating environments (e.g., dusty or high-temperature conditions), shorten the change interval accordingly.
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