Adding oil to an air compressor is a simple process that can help maintain its efficiency and longevity. To do so, start by checking the owner's manual for the recommended oil type and quantity. Then, locate the oil fill cap or dipstick and remove it. Pour in the recommended amount of oil slowly, using a funnel if necessary. Replace the cap or dipstick and run the compressor for a few minutes to distribute the oil. It is important to note that oil-free air compressors do not require oil, but may have other maintenance requirements. Choosing between oil and oil-free compressors depends on your specific needs and usage, as each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

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March 17, 2023
Oil vs Oil-free Air Compressor: Which Is Best & Why?
compressorlab.com/oil-vs-oil-free-air-compressor/
Air compressors must need machines for various applications such as pharmaceutical,
food and beverage, agricultural, and automotive. And the air compressor can be of two
types: oil- and oil-free. sometimes we need to compare oil vs oil-free air compressors.
Besides, they come with many differences, but the primary one is oil. Specifically, oil air
compressors need oil to run, whereas oil-free compressors can work with Teflon or other
polymers.
In this article, I will discuss everything about these machines in depth. So no more talking
and diving to the section beneath for further information.
What Is Oil Air Compressor?

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An oil air compressor, also known as an oil-lubricated air compressor, is a type of air
compressor that uses oil as a lubricant for its moving parts. These compressors typically
have a motor that drives a piston or a screw mechanism to compress air, which is then
stored in a tank for later use. And this safe it from overheating and reduces corrosion.
Besides, oil air compressors are commonly used in industrial settings where high
volumes of compressed air are needed for tasks. And it using oil as a lubricant helps to
decrease friction between the parts of the compressor. Which can extend the machine’s
life and improve its efficiency.
However, oil air compressors also require regular maintenance to ensure the oil remains
clean and effective at lubricating the compressor’s components. Therefore, you also need
to monitor the oil level and quality regularly and replace the oil as necessary to keep the
compressor running smoothly.
You can read more detail about: What is an oil-free Air compressor? Expert
recommendation
How Do Oil Air Compressors Work?

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These air compressors use oil as a lubricant to reduce friction between the compressor’s
moving parts. And the oil is stored in a reservoir and pumped to the compressor’s moving
parts, such as the piston and cylinder.
When the compressor starts, the piston falls down and makes a vacuum, pulling air into
the cylinder. Then the piston moves up, compressing the air and pressuring it through a
stock tank. And the oil lubricates the piston and cylinder, decreases erosion and safe the
compressor from overheating.
In some oil air compressors, the oil is also used to cool the compressed air entering the
storage tank. The oil and air mixture is sent through a separator that splits the oil from the
air. And which allows the oil to be recycled back into the compressor and the air to be
used for various applications.
Besides, oil air compressors can be two work systems like splash and pressure. In splash
types, you need to splash oil regularly over the crankshaft and cylinder walls with the help
of a dipper while working. Also, you have to pour oil into the important place in the
pressure compressor. However, this type of compressor is less common and more
expensive.
Types of Oil lubricated Air Compressors

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Oil-lubricated air compressors are widely used in various industries for their high
efficiency and durability. Here I have mentioned some of the types of oil-lubricated air
compressors:
1. Reciprocating Air Compressors
2. Rotary Screw Air Compressors
3. Scroll Air Compressors
4. Rotary Vane Air Compressors
Application Of Oil Air Compressor

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Sandblasting and surface preparation
Operating pneumatic tools, such as drills, nail guns, and sanders
Spray painting and coating
Running air-powered machinery in manufacturing plants
Powering HVAC systems in large buildings
Providing compressed air for scuba diving tanks
Benefits Of Oil Air Compressor

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Best for heavy-duty and industrial application
Longer lifespan before needing replacement
Quieter operation
Better heat dissipation
Versatility
Drawbacks Of Oil Air Compressor
Larger and need to place one location
Huge maintenance requires
Usually more expensive than an oil-free air compressor
Oil harmful to the environment
What Is The Best Oil Air Compressor?

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The craftsman compressor is the best as an oil air compressor. You can learn the details
about this machine from here and select the perfect one for your needs.
What Is Oil-free Air Compressor?
In an oil-free air compressor, the pump instruments require Teflon coating and synthetic
equipment rather than oil. And this mitigates wear and heat without needing oil. Typically
oil-free air compressors are lighter and usable for light work.

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However, this oil can contaminate the compressed air and may not be used for certain
projects. Such as in the medical or food industries, where pure, oil-free air is required.
How Do Oil-free Air Compressors Work?
Oil-less air compressors use various techniques to compress air without using oil as a
lubricant.
There are two main kinds of oil-free compressors: scroll compressors and piston
compressors. Scroll compressors use two spiral-shaped scrolls that rotate in opposite
directions. And the scroll keeps stationary while the other orbits all over it, compressing
the air as it moves towards the centre. Because the scrolls don’t touch each other, there
is no required for oil. Scroll compressors are quiet, efficient, and ideal for small to
medium-sized applications.
While Piston compressors, also known as reciprocating compressors, use a cylinder and
piston to compress air. Instead of oil, these compressors use Teflon or other polymers as
a lubricant. With the help of a piston, the machine compresses the air in the cylinder and
then pushes it into a storage tank. And the Piston compressors are more powerful than
scroll compressors.
Types of Oil-free Air Compressors

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Many kinds of oil-free compressors are available, and I have included here some of them.
Take a look–
1. Scroll Compressors
2. Piston Compressors
3. Centrifugal Compressors
4. Diaphragm Compressors
5. Rotary Screw Compressors
Application Of Oil-free Air Compressor

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Operating medical equipment, such as dental chairs and ventilators
Providing compressed air for laboratory equipment
Manufacturing of food and beverage products, such as bottling and packaging lines
Powering electronics manufacturing equipment
Running air-powered machinery in cleanroom environments
Providing compressed air for pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
Benefits Of Oil-free Air Compressor

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Compact and lightweight design
Require less maintenance
Effortless to operate
Suitable for non-commercial projects
Environment-friendly
Drawbacks Of Oil-free Air Compressor
Can’t handle more extensive high-quality application
Need to replacement eventually than an oil air compressor
Limited application
What Is The Better Oil-free Air Compressor?

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You can choose DeWalt DWFP55126, which is efficient and reliable for an extended
period of work. And, if you want to know more about this machine, you can read this
review on Dewalt dwfp55126 air compressor and make yourself knowledgeable before
purchasing.
Comparison Between Oil and Oil-free Compressor

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Oil Air Compressor Oil-free Air Compressor
Oil air compressors need oil to run. It can be moved with Teflon coating or
water without oil.
This air compressor is more extensive and
heavy.
Oil-free compressor compact and light
shape.
It has to be set in one place, and carrying
can be difficult.
You can move this compressor from
place to place.
It can be used for more significant works and
industrial projects.
This is for light work or home use.
This air compressor is less noisy. It is loud than an oil air compressor.
It requires regular maintenance. These air compressors do not need
any maintenance.
Key Distinction Between Oil and Oil-free Air Compressors
Let’s see some of the critical distinctions between these two air compressors here–
1. Lubrication Requirements
The primary distinction between these compressors is the lubrication system. Oil
compressors use oil to lubricate and cool down the compressor pump. In contrast, oil-free
compressors use other things like Teflon or synthetic materials to avoid the need for oil
lubrication.
2. Maintenance Needs

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As you know, oil air compressors need oil for their moving part or operation. And you
have to pour and check the oil level regularly. And if you don’t do that, the machine will be
damaged and reduce its lifespan. On the other hand, the oil-free does not require any oil
change and tends to be run like oil air compressors. But when the frictionless coating
starts to fall off, they need replacing immediately. Also, they run as heated as oil
compressors.
3. Performance
Oil compressors deliver higher performance than oil-free compressors because the oil
lubrication system can reduce friction and wear on the compressor pump. In comparison,
oil-free compressors may have a shorter lifespan due to the higher friction and heat
generated during operation.
4. Air quality
Oil-free compressors are preferred in applications where air quality is critical, such as in
the medical, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Oil compressors can introduce oil and
other contaminants into the compressed air, which can harm sensitive equipment or
products.
5. Maintenance Costs (oil vs oil-free air compressor)
Because an oil air compressor needs oil for running or regular maintenance, they are
more expensive than an oil-less air compressor (oil vs oil-free air compressor). Therefore
you need to take care of the machine as the manufacturer suggests, which is costly. But
the oil-free air compressor does not require oil, so they need fewer maintenance fees,
6. Contamination Risks
Oil air compressors can be harmful to the surrounding air. And it can’t be used where
contamination is concerned and avoided. Many companies use this policy to ignore risks.
In this situation, an oil-free air compressor is highly demandable. And they are commonly
used in electronics manufacturing, food processing, and medical equipment
manufacturing, where oil contamination is a concern.
7. Applications
An oil-free compressor is for a light job around the home or office. In contrast, the oil-
lubricated air compressor is for heavy-duty projects and industrial use.
8. Noise levels (oil vs oil-free air compressor)
Traditionally, an oil compressor makes a lower sound than an oil-free air compressor. And
this is best for indoor use projects or where sound pollution is prohibited. But modern oil-
free air compressors now also make a low sound. Before choosing one, ask or check the
manufactures recommendations about the noise level.

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9. Mobility
The oil-free air compressor is much more compact and has a light body shape than the oil
compressor. You can carry and move this machine whenever you want. And also it can
be shifted from one working place to another simply. While oil compressor is large and
heavy, so it is tough to move them.
You may like to read :
Craftsman Vs Dewalt – Which Air Compressor Is Best For You?
What Oil To Use In An Air Compressor? A Complete Guide
What Is Air Compressor And How Does It Work?
Can I Use An Air Compressor 10W30 Oil In My AC?
Which One Is Best For You?
In the end, I would say there is no shortcut suggestion for which (oil vs oil-free air
compressor) one is right for you. They both have some pros and cons. And it basically
depends on your projects and your personal preferences. For instance, if you want an air
compressor for industrial purposes, you can choose an oil air compressor. Or you can
select an oil-free air compressor for relatively light projects.
FAQs
Can I lubricate an oil-free compressor?

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The oil-free air compressor means it does not require any oil. So, you should not lubricate
an oil-free compressor. Unlike oil-lubricated compressors, these compressors are built to
run without oil. And adding lubrication can damage the compressor or create safety
hazards.
Is higher CFM means better air compressor?
A higher CFM rating for a compressor does not certainly mean it is the best. It depends
on the particular job and the tools being used. For example, if you use pneumatic tools
that need a high rate of air, such as grinders or sanders. Then a higher CFM rating would
be beneficial. But if you are using smaller tools such as nail guns or airbrushes. For that,
a lower CFM rating would be sufficient. It’s essential to choose an air compressor with a
CFM rating that matches the needs of your specific tools and application. Rather than just
opting for the highest CFM rating available.
Can I use engine oil as air compressor oil?
No, using engine oil as air compressor oil is not recommended. Air compressor oil is
designed to handle an air compressor’s moisture, heat, and pressure, whereas engine oil
is not. Specifically, engine oil is designed to work in combustion engines. But air
compressor oil is formulated to work in the compressed air environment of an air
compressor. And using the wrong type of oil can lead to reduced performance and
potential damage to the air compressor.
How do I maintain an oil compressor?
To maintain an oil compressor, there are several vital steps to follow:
Check the oil level often and top it up when needed.
Change the oil as per the manufacturer’s suggestion.
Ensure the air filters are regularly cleaned or replaced.
Inspect and tighten bolts and fittings to confirm there is no leakage.
Look over the belt tension and fix it as needed.
Drain any accumulated water from the tank.
Keep the compressor clean and safe from debris.
Obey the user’s recommendations for care and repair.