Functions and Common Misconceptions of Air Compressor Lubricating Oil

Air compressors impose stringent requirements on lubricating oil. Therefore, proper selection and rational application of air compressor oil are critical to ensuring safe and stable operation of compressors. 

Below we elaborate on the functions of air compressor lubricating oil and common misconceptions in its application.

Functions of Lubricating Oil

Lubricating oil provides lubrication, cooling and other functions. After entering the bearing, the oil rotates together with the rotating shaft due to adhesion force. An oil film forms inside the bearing to lift the rotating shaft, 

realizing hydrodynamic lubrication between the bearing bush and shaft journal. This guarantees long-term, low-noise operation of the unit.

Factors Affecting the Performance of Screw Air Compressor Lubricating Oil
As the service time of lubricating oil increases, contaminants gradually accumulate in the oil, greatly degrading its lubricating performance. The main influencing factors are listed as follows:

During unit operation, low operating temperature leads to condensed water inside the lubricating oil. Moisture contaminates the oil and impairs its lubricating performance. 

In addition, particulate impurities generated by friction and wear during long-term equipment operation enter the oil and reduce lubrication effectiveness. Improper protection may cause dust, 

metal particles or other types of oil to contaminate the lubricant during storage, refilling or operation.

Failed shaft end seals, fluctuations in process systems or operational errors allow corrosive harmful gases in the ambient environment, such as chlorine, sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, to infiltrate the lubricating oil. 

These gases contaminate the oil and degrade its lubricating performance. Meanwhile, such corrosive gases erode pipelines, valves and equipment within the lubrication system. 

The resulting corrosion products further pollute the lubricating oil and weaken its performance.

Common Misconceptions in Lubricating Oil Application

Severe friction occurs in compressors due to structural changes of components during operation. It is essential to convert solid friction into liquid friction. To give full play to the performance of lubricating oil, 

achieve reliable compressor lubrication, reduce wear and extend equipment service life, sufficient attention must be paid to the selection and application of air compressor oil. Nevertheless, 

many equipment maintenance personnel hold various misconceptions regarding lubricating oil usage, resulting in unnecessary losses.