Why is selecting the best synthetic compressor oil so important?

With the widespread use of dynamic, reciprocating and rotary compressors it’s not always easy choosing the best synthetic compressor oil for the application.

Lubrication requirements vary considerably, depending not only on the type of compressor but also the gas which is being compressed. In general, air and gas compressors are mechanically similar.

Thus, the main difference is in the effect of the gas on the lubricant

Have you ever tried to define what is lubrication?

We all have a pretty good idea of what lubrication is, but the term has come to mean a lot more than overcoming friction and wear. The official dictionary definition of what lubrication is, is; the application of an oily or greasy substance in order to diminish friction.

What is a lubricant?

Oil and grease are the most common lubricants. Grease is composed of oil and a thickening agent to obtain its consistency, while the oil is what actually lubricates.

Oils can be synthetic, vegetable or mineral-based as well as a combination of these. The application determines which oil, commonly referred to as the base oil, should be used. In extreme conditions, synthetic oils can be

Do thinner motor oils offer better fuel economy and less wear?

Although synthetic motor oils are increasingly being used, mineral lubricants are probably still in the majority which often leads to a discussion around the best engine oil viscosity for the application and whether thinner motor oils hold any meaningful benefits for the motorist.

Conventional wisdom states that engine oils that increase fuel

Are PAO’s the best synthetic base stock oil for engine oils?

Although PAO’s are commonly used, are they really the best synthetic base stock for engine oil? And why are PAG’s not commonly used as synthetic base stock for engine oils?

Polyalkylene glycols or PAG base oils are types of synthetic base stocks. While synthetic engine oils are becoming

Do anti-friction metal conditioners really work?

We’ve all read the anti-friction metal conditioner claims that they save energy, reduce operational costs, increase power and torque, lower operating temperatures, decrease wear and downtime, and provide easier cold-weather operation. In short a miracle in a bottle.

These anti-friction metal conditioners must not be confused with other oil additive packages normally used in the formulation

Synthetic vs mineral oils – why should you consider the switch to mineral.

In absolutes there’s no doubt that synthetic oil out performs mineral oil, but then why does the debate on synthetic vs. mineral oils rage on? As with most decisions in life, this one is also usually based on money.

What are the differences in cost, synthetic vs. mineral oils?

The common price for a quart of 10W-30 brand-name mineral-based oil at a local auto parts store is approx twice the price for

Are you aware that excessive air in oil may be destroying your equipment and costing you money?

We all know that excessive air in oil can’t be good, but just what are the dangers of air trapped in oil? Although air is always present in lubricating oil, it is often justifiable to adopt measures to minimize its presence.

How do you know if your equipment’s lube is suffering because of the air in the oil.

Air can exist in oil in three different states:

Dissolved

Air dissolved in oil exists as individual molecules which are similar to CO2 dissolved in