At this point the industrial world needs little convincing of the benefits that come from using an air compressor.
Nowadays, the question isn’t ‘do I want an air compressor?’ but rather ‘do I want an oil air compressor or an oil-free air compressor?’
Today we’re breaking down the differences between the two to help you pick the one that’ll best meet your needs.
Maintenance
Because of the necessity to change the oil, oiled air compressors require more maintenance than its oil-free counterpart. In saying this, oil-free compressors can become dry faster than oiled compressors because of the pre-lubrication aspects and the fact that they’re not constantly maintained.
Weight
Because they consist of fewer parts than oiled compressors, oil-free air compressors usually weigh significantly less.
Cost
In line with the reasoning above, oil-free air compressors also cost less than oiled compressors because of the smaller number of parts needed.
Usability
Because of the difference in durability you need to pick your air compressor based on how much you intend to use it. If you plan on using your air compressor in a non-industrial setting that demands less usage then an oil-free compressor will suit you. If you will be using your air compressor in an industrial setting or for long bouts of time then it would be better suited to install an oiled air compressor.
Noise
Oil-free air compressors operate quitter than oiled compressors because of how well-lubricated they are.
Durability
While oil-free air compressors trump oiled air compressors in terms of weight, cost and maintenance required they don’t possess the same high level of durability that oiled air compressors do. Also remember that oil-free compressors don’t feature any oil to cool its components. This can result in a higher operating temperature than that of an oiled compressor.
What will it be? Oiled or Oil-free?
Have you decided yet which air compressor best matches your requirements? Or are you still unsure which option to go for?
CDA Systems would be honored to help make this important decision a little easier for you. Rely on CDA Systems’ expertise in clean dry air to assure the proper solution for your process. 925.667.3400 / sales@cdasystems.com