The Best Rotary Compressor Oil for High-Temperature Applications

Compressor systems are essential in every industry, from powering pneumatic manufacturing tools to driving process systems in oil and gas, mining and utilities. Compressed air is often referred to as the “fourth utility” — as important as fuel, electricity and water. Compressor downtime can cost facilities thousands of dollars per hour in lost productivity, with most failures linked to lubricant contamination and poor maintenance practices.  

Despite their ubiquity, compressors are among the most maintenance-intensive assets in industrial operations. The stress of extreme temperatures, moisture and contamination make compressors highly susceptible to accelerated wear and premature failure.

High-Temperature Viscosity

Rotary compressors used in industrial applications are exposed to continuous operation at high temperatures and pressures, which can significantly affect oil performance and longevity. Viscosity index measures an oil’s ability to maintain a proper lubricant film by resisting thickening in extreme cold and thinning in extreme heat. Because oil naturally becomes thinner at higher temperatures, using oil with too low of a viscosity index can lead to reduced performance and component wear due to insufficient lubrication.

Varnish Deposits

Varnish is a major cause of mechanical failures in high-temperature rotary compressor applications. High temperatures rapidly accelerate the oxidation of mineral-based lubricants, leaving behind damaging carbon, sludge and varnish deposits that cause sensitive components to stick and reduce operational efficiency. Deposits can also create hot spots in specific areas, leading to extreme overheating that causes the oil to deteriorate faster.

A Better Solution

The base oil quality and additive package determine an oil’s ability to maintain a lubricating film that protects against wear in extreme conditions. High-quality synthetic compressor oils feature low volatility, high thermal stability, resistance to oxidation and excellent water-separation properties that can help reduce oil-related outages and maintenance costs. For superior protection over extended drain intervals, AMSOIL Industrial AMSAIR-PLUS Synthetic Rotary Compressor Oil provides enhanced resistance to oxidation and varnish.  

Key Features

• Reduced Downtime: AMSAIR-PLUS is designed for up to 16,000-hour drain intervals in rotary screw compressors operating at 200°F discharge temperatures. 

• Extended Equipment Life: AMSAIR-PLUS maintains a strong lubricating film at high temperatures to help protect components against wear damage. 

• Improved Efficiency: The superior thermal stability of AMSAIR-PLUS helps prevent performance-robbing sludge, carbon and varnish deposits. 

• Inhibits Corrosion: The high demulsibility of AMSAIR-PLUS ensures rapid separation from water to help protect against rust and corrosion.

Technical Specifications

To learn more about extending your oil service life up to 16,000 hours between drain intervals, download our AMSAIR Extended Service Life comparison. Contact an AMSOIL Industrial Application Engineer today to discuss custom solutions specifically tailored to your operation that will help reduce downtime, protect your assets and improve profitability.