Rotary Screw Compressor Oil: What Grade Do You Need?

Rotary screw compressor oil

If you’re using a rotary screw compressor in your business, it’s important to make sure you’re using the right grade of oil. Using the wrong grade of oil can cause all sorts of problems, including decreased efficiency and even compressor failure. In this blog post, we’ll talk about what grade of oil you need for your rotary screw compressor and why it’s so important to use the right one. Stay tuned!

Rotary Screw Compressor:

A rotary screw compressor is a type of compressor that uses two meshing helical rotors to compress air. The rotors are driven by an electric motor and move in opposite directions, trapping air between them and compressing it as they turn. Rotary screw compressors are very efficient and can provide a high volume of compressed air without requiring much maintenance. Mostly it is used for industrial operations.

Rotary Screw Compressor Oil:

Most rotary screw compressors require oil for lubrication and cooling. The type of oil you need will depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations, but it’s generally recommended to use synthetic oil with a viscosity of 46. Using the wrong grade of oil can cause decreased efficiency and even failure, so be sure to check your owner’s manual before purchasing rotary screw compressor oil.

Why Do Rotary Screw Compressors Need Oil?

Rotary screw compressors need oil for two main reasons: lubrication and cooling.

The oil helps to lubricate the moving parts inside the compressor, which reduces friction and wear. It also helps to keep the compressor cool by absorbing heat from the compression process. But there are some types of oil-free Compressors.

Rotary Screw Compressor Oil Type

The frequency with which you’ll need to change the oil in your rotary screw compressor will d on several factors, including the type of oil you’re using, the operating environment, and the hours of operation. As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to change the oil every 2000 hours of operation or once per year, whichever comes first.

Changing the oil in your rotary screw compressor is a simple task that can be done yourself with just a few tools. Be sure to dispose of the old oil properly – many auto parts stores will accept used oil for recycling.

What grade do you need for Screw Compressor Oil?

The oil you use in your rotary screw compressor needs to be of a certain viscosity grade, typically an ISO 46. This standard measurement ensures the oil will protect your compressor from wear and tear. You can find this number on the label of the oil container. If you’re unsure which oil to use, consult your compressor’s manual or reach out to the manufacturer.

There are other factors to consider when choosing rotary screw compressor oil, such as the operating environment and hours of operation. With proper maintenance, your rotary screw compressor will continue to run smoothly for years without no worries.

Let’s talk about the grade & quantity

  • Grade

The rotary screw compressor oil grade you need will depend on several factors, such as the operating environment and hours of operation. If you’re unsure about what rotary screw compressor oil grade is right for your needs, reach out to the experts at Compressed Air Systems. Though most of the screw compressor manufacturers recommend ISO 46 grade synthetic oil but some manufacturers may recommend 68 or other types of oil for your compressor.

  • Quantity

Mostly a standard rotary screw compressor requires 1 gallon or 4ltr Compressor oil. But for adding oil to your compressor you need to check the glass oil level of the compressor. you have to continue oil adding in the chamber until oil comes to the right level in the compressor.

46 Grade Screw Compressor Oil:

If you’re looking for rotary screw compressor oil, the 46-grade synthetic oil is the best option for you. This oil is designed for use in compressors that operate in moderate to severe conditions. It can withstand high temperatures and has excellent wear protection properties. The 46-grade oil also has good anti-rust and anti-foam properties. Nowadays you may find a lot of advanced synthetic type 46 grade rotary air compressor oil which may give you long oil change intervals like 4000 to 10000 service hours! You may take a look at the below figure to get a clear vision of advanced 46-grade Compressor oil characteristics.

But When choosing rotary screw compressor oil, always consult your compressor’s manual or reach out to the manufacturer to ensure you’re using the correct oil for your specific model.

Choosing the right rotary screw compressor oil is essential to keeping your equipment running smoothly and efficiently. With so many different grades available, it’s important to consult your compressor’s manual or reach out to the manufacturer to ensure you’re using the correct oil for your specific model. Synthetic oils offer superior performance and protection, while non-synthetic options may be more cost-effective.

So let’s discuss some good rotary screw compressor oil.

Atlas Copco Screw Compressor Oil:

Atlas Copco is a leading manufacturer of rotary screw compressors. Their products are very much known for their quality and durability. When it comes to choosing rotary screw compressor oil, Atlas Copco recommends its brand of oil. Their oil is designed specifically for use in their compressors and will help extend the life of your compressor. Always consult your compressor’s manual or reach out to the manufacturer to ensure you’re using the correct oil for your specific model.

Shell rotary screw compressor oil:

Shell is not a compressor manufacturer but they are the leading manufacturer of rotary screw compressor oil. They offer a variety of oils for use in their compressors, including synthetic and non-synthetic options. Their synthetic oil is designed to provide superior performance and protection in demanding applications. Some manufacturers will directly recommend you use shell Corena compressor oil.

Chevron rotary screw compressor oil:

Chevron offers a variety of oils for rotary screw compressor oils, including synthetic and non-synthetic options. Their synthetic oil is designed to provide superior performance and protection in demanding applications. As with any rotary screw compressor oil, always consult your manufacturer.

Check: ExxonMobil Vs Chevron Vs Shell

Vanguard Rotary Screw Compressor Oil Equivalent:

Vanguard rotary screw compressor oils are designed to provide outstanding performance and protection in a variety of rotary screw compressors. You may find a good Vanguard rotary screw compressor oil equivalent in Shell or Chevron’s rotary screw compressor oils.

Check: Compressor Oil Substitute

Final Word:

There are many different grades of rotary screw compressor oil, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Ultimately, the best rotary screw compressor oil for your needs will depend on a variety of factors and your budget also. But Always consult your compressor’s manual or reach out to the manufacturer to ensure you’re using the correct oil for your specific model.

Read About: Why Oil in Air Compressor Tank

Emon

Emon is Lubricants specialist who studied on Petroleum Engineering in UAE. He have more than 10 years experience on different kinds of lubrication including automobile troubleshooting.

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