Oil-free air compressors already have a lubricated cylinder (often with a non-stick material such as Teflon) and therefore require no further maintenance to work properly. Oil-based compressors require oil to be added to the piston area and changed regularly. Just how often you need to change the oil will be outlined in the compressor manufacturer’s manual that came with your compressor.
On the whole, oil-free compressors tend to weigh a lot less than oil-based compressors, as not only do they not have the weight of the oil, but they are more compact machines, requiring fewer separate parts to make them work. Oil-free compressors, being less complex in design, also tend to be more affordable than oil-based compressors.
However, although they’re more weighty and expensive, oil-based compressors have their benefits. For one thing, they are strong and durable, and usually have a longer lifespan than their oil-free counterparts. This is usually because over time the greasing material (usually Teflon) begins to wear down and lose its lubrication abilities.
Another important factor that should be considered when choosing between an oil-free and oil-based compressor is that the oil-less version tends to heat up faster and to a higher temperature than those which use oil. Compressors without oil also make a lot more noise than those with, so if you want a less noisy workplace, this is a factor to consider too.
Oil-Free and Oil-based Compressor Applications
Oilless air compressor is a great option for those in need of a lightweight, low maintenance tool for home use. Oil-based compressors are better suited to heavy duty jobs and commercial and industrial use, as although they’re generally heavier and require more maintenance, they are also more robust and versatile.
For industrial purposes and extensive, day-long use, oil-based compressors are by far the best option. If you’re looking to invest in quality compressors for your business, opting for oil-based machines is almost certainly the best route to take.
Within an industrial or commercial setting, there are numerous uses for oil-based air compressors, including:
Vehicle painting and repairs
Sanding and woodwork
Creating snow banks in ski centres
Tools within dentistry and other medical environments
Pneumatic construction tools such as nail guns
Air cleaning tools such as blowguns
Oil-free compressors can be used for domestic use, such as small-scale jobs like blowing up balloons, home workshop and DIY jobs. They are also largely used in industries where there is a need to avoid the product or consumer coming into contact with oil: food and beverage, pharmaceutical and dental, for example. In these sensitive applications, the consequences of having oil contamination in the air are too high to risk, so having an oil free compressor is a must. There is compressed air quality testing from the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) which oil-free technology can help you achieve.
Medical Air Compressors
Werther can manufacture a custom solution for multiple compressed air applications. We can customize any medical air compressor to fit all healthcare needs. If you're interested in our medical grade air compressors, then request your quote today! These compressors are perfect for hospitals, doctors’ offices, vet offices, and much more!
Medical Grade Air Compressors
Werther International's goal is to meet the high standards demanded by the medical industry. Our air compressor products deliver the quality of air needed to keep instruments clean and your patients safe. Medical grade air compressors are used to drive pneumatic devices in surgical areas, critical care areas, nurseries, operating rooms, intensive care, post-operative care, emergency rooms and more.
