- Splash is the most well-known method. It’s an “oil dipper” connected to the rod on the piston. It can be accessed through the sump to collect oil and oil sprayed over the bearings and then upwards into the chamber of the piston each revolution.
- Pressure is common in rotary compressors, as well as some industrial models. This kind of system utilizes an oil pump that creates pressure and then pushes the oil through “tubes” or passageways, producing an oil stream inside the machine, similar to how your car’s lubrication works. This type of system is better for ensuring that the piston’s head stays cool during running.
Lifespan Comparison
The oil-free compressor was designed to have a lower life expectancy than lubricated compressors. It is because the Teflon coatings wear off eventually, and then most people throw their compressor away and buy a completely new one. The average failure rate of these compressors is about 10,000 hours of use. (In my experience, this would be about one year of employment for the contractor).
The most frequent problem with compressors is that they start producing air at a slower rate due to cracks and leaks in the cylinder walls surrounding the piston. Furthermore, the weaker condition of the compressor implies that it has to run for longer to create the same amount of air.
A compressor that’s not oil-free has been operating for a longer time and generates heat, further decreasing the protection against pre-lubrication. This leads to wear becoming more rapid. The cycle of excessive use results in more wearing until the compressor isn’t shut down in any way or stops functioning when it’s in an overheated, seized condition.
The short time frame allows manufacturers to create a cheaper air compressor model. The ever-growing need for a low-cost, lightweight, compact, and durable air compressor suggests that oil-free compressors are likely to remain short.
Another point to be noted is that pancake compressors, along with other models that do not require oil, generally employ the universal motor instead of an induction engine. Universal motors are smaller and aren’t as durable as induction motors. But, this isn’t an issue since they generally last longer than pistons.
The oil-based units will last up to 15000 hours. That’s roughly seven times more than units that are non-oil-free. However, portable models tend to be heavier.
Another advantage of the design oil-filled is that they typically employ an iron casting head. The stronger piston heads are made from strong metal, which is invulnerable cut-offs within the head (scratches) as well as a major reason behind that design for the oil-filled piston is very durable and long-lasting.
The best option to ensure the long-term durability of your compressor with no oil is to ensure that it is regularly stopped to cool down and not be left running for a long period.
Air Compressor Maintenance
An oil-free design’s best advantage is that it is maintenance-free. Apart from draining the compressor every night after each usage, there is no need for maintenance.
Also, there is no risk of spilling oil on the flooring of the client’s home when the compressor is turned over.
The oil-filled models require more focus. The oil change should occur every 500 hours after you remove the oil and later replace it. Also, it is recommended to set up a schedule for checking the oil levels every day before starting work.
These are simple steps. If you’re thinking of the huge 60-gallon industrial model, it’s a good idea to go with an oil-based one. For smaller units that are portable, Many contractors choose models that aren’t oil-based, so they do not have to incorporate maintenance into their already hectic schedules.
Noise Levels
One of the main differences is the level of sound. Air compressors that do not have oil can be extremely noisy. Therefore, motorist contractors employ longer pipes to keep them from the path and from the vicinity of their work.
Compressors with lubrication tend to run quieter because of the increased lubrication.
Most oil compressors are so quiet that you can continue the conversation about them. However, the oil-free compressors aren’t quite as quiet.
In a summer bicycle shop I worked at the time, there was a room enclosed equipped with an oil-free air compressor. However, it would clack with enough force, making it difficult to communicate with it; even though the walls were lined with insulation after the unit was destroyed, they rebuilt it with a less noisy and well-oiled unit.
If you’re keen to own an oil-free compressor but wish to reduce the noise as much as possible, it’s possible to think about an intake muffler that can fit into an air compressor. They are an off-the-shelf accessory that is designed to reduce the sound produced by the compressor.
The Cold Weather Advantage Of An Oil-Free Model
Although this article highlights the weaknesses of the oil-free compressor, they have one major advantage: they’re less vulnerable to the effects of cold temperatures.
Oiled units have heavier oils, making it difficult to begin and increase pressure. But, if you’re working outside in cold conditions, you could try with a lighter-weight lube (most owner’s manuals recommend 30W/ISO100 ). You could also consider 20W/ISO68 ).
OIL-free models do not suffer from this problem and perform similarly in warm temperatures.
Use Type
Both models produce compressed air. However, they differ in the volume of air they produce and what type of air-powered equipment you’re planning on using in conjunction with the models.
To frame nails, it is best to select an oil-free version. You might need to buy a new one every 2 or 3 years. However, the air requirements aren’t excessive, and the compressor is lightweight.
There are a variety of air compressors with portable air for oil. They typically have a greater capacity and are ideal for construction equipment that has a fast pace and for those who want to run two nailers simultaneously.
My opinion is that the shop compressor should have an air compressor that is oil-lubed. But, unfortunately, they’re not cheap, and you must ensure that your investment will last a long time.
Choosing An Air Compressor
Oil-based compressors will be the best option for projects at a rate that exceeds 5 CFM (Cubic FPM). If you run an auto repair shop, you’ll require a compressor. If you are a painter, then you’ll require the oil compressor. If you are a part of an active construction or cabinet shop, you will also need the durability and toughness of the compressor.
The compressors that do not require oil are perfect for those who do not use them regularly, like the homeowner remodeling their home or the family member that requires an air compressor for their garage. They have less power between the 2 and 5 CFM range. However, there are large construction teams that I collaborate with that employ oil-free compressors. They understand that they need to purchase new compressors each year in the strategy for their company, and they appreciate their ease in maintenance from oil-free compressors. If a high-quality oil-lubricated model lasts for the same amount of time as smaller 4, or 5 models, then the oil-lubricated model will be more cost-effective for 24 months or more.
Whatever model you choose, one of the most important things to consider is the credibility of the business you purchase from. Brands like Campbell Hausfeld and Ingersoll Rand have been in operation for a long time and offer better support and readily accessible parts. Although the majority of compressors are made in China and Taiwan, the availability of local brands that can speak your language and can support their warranties is essential.
Take note that a greater warranty covers some models if you lease the compressor or use it for commercial use.
Does Oil Get Into The Air Lines And Cause Problems?
It’s not. The main issue is likely to be connected to water. In addition to cleaning the compressor frequently, other uses (such as painting or sandblasting) make sense to add an external drying unit in your airline to rid it of any water that isn’t required.
The oil released from the line is so tiny that it can be difficult to identify or count. But, most of the liquid that flows is stored in the tank before release, and the water th released at night’s end.
Air Purity
Most pancake compressors, along with other models designed for work sites, come with an air filter that is small in the intake. Unfortunately, this filter may make the compressor entangled in dust and debris, making it more susceptible to premature death.
Some suggestions are to protect your compressor free of dust and clean the filter as frequently as possible. Every oil-filled unit comes with an air intake filter similar to your car’s. They can be taken off and replaced.
Maintaining Your Compressor For The Longest Lifespan
- Avoid overheating it. Every compressor has limitations, referred to by the term “duty cycles. The majority of oil-free models are limited by a 25-45% duty cycle, meaning they must be able to stop in a minimum of 50-75% of the course. When running for 2 minutes, it’ll need 6 minutes of cooling time before it is ready to start again. The compressors operating fast may cause them to stop working more quickly. In the same way, the slippery units can handle longer durations of operation that range from 50 to 100 percent and are not subject to the same damage.
- Remove the Compressor. There’s a whole guide to this. But corrosion is the main tank destroyer. It is crucial to drain the compressor every night to ensure that the water accumulating inside the tank does not cause damage to the tank.
- Clean or Replace the Air Filter. Read the owner’s instructions for this However; I’d like to bring this up here. If particles can pass through the filter and enter the piston’s chamber, it could cause damage to the piston’s walls and reduce the energy it produces. Therefore, you must replace the air filter on your compressor every six months, or at a minimum.
- Make sure to change the oil. This should be more frequent in the case of a big-volume shop. Find out the owner’s guidelines regarding the intervals to change the oil. However, if you’re running the requirement for 500 hours of oil, it is possible to do this every once or twice yearly.