Among the various types of compressors, youll notice a vast range of differences. Compressors can be static or portable; they might be designed for home or for industrial use; they might be able to produce horsepower that ranges from less than 1HP up to more than a few thousand HP. However, an important characteristic that you have to consider before buying a compressor is whether it requires oil.

Compressors that require oil to function are known as oil-lubricated compressors, while those that do not are called oil-free compressors.

The oil is also called lubricant, and there are many different kinds available.

Oil-lubricated compressors need lubricant in order to reduce friction and wear. Moreover, as an example, screw-type compressors inject oil directly inside the compressed air. High film strength and adhesion to metals are properties that contribute to reduction of friction and wear.

Oil cost is something that has to be considered when dealing with oil-lubricated compressors. Although operational costs may be reduced by choosing high-quality lubricants (these lubricants tend to last longer and they prevent damage to the interior parts), opting for a more expensive lubricant in the short run may not always be an easy decision to make. The compressors owner/operator has to choose between mineral and synthetic lubricants. After this, he has to choose a specific brand of lubricant. Moreover, each brand provides many categories and different models of lubricants.

Additionally, the oil quality affects both the performance and the correct maintenance of the interior parts of the compressor. Just like your car needs good oil, a compressor runs smoothly with quality lubricant.

As a side note, failure to change compressor oil after a certain period of time can produce mechanical malfunctions and might even destroy the compressor. Oil maintenance is a very critical aspect of oil-lubricated compressors.