• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Contributing Writers
  • Site Directory
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Privacy / Disclaimer
  • Contact Us

Chainsaw Journal

Power Equipment for A Modern World

  • Electric Generators
    • Portable Generators
    • Portable Power Stations
    • Inverter Generators
    • Educational
  • Chainsaws
    • Cordless / Battery-Powered
    • Corded-Electric
    • Gas-Powered
    • Chainsaw Reviews
    • Education / How-to
  • Power Equipment
    • Log Splitters
    • Snow Blowers
    • Wood Chippers / Shredders
    • Leaf Blowers
    • Lawn Mower
  • Workshop Tools
    • Shop Heaters
    • Woodworking tools
    • Table Saws
    • Miter Saws
    • Automotive
    • Air Compressors
  • Informative
  • Pools
    • Robotic Pool Cleaners
    • Pool Pumps
    • Pool Heaters
  • Indoor Home
    • Air Conditioners
    • Outdoor Cooking
    • Vacuum Cleaners
    • Kids
  • Blog
Home » Blog » Oil vs Oil-Free Air Compressors | What’s the Difference?

Oil vs Oil-Free Air Compressors | What’s the Difference?

Last Updated: January 31, 2023 / at: 4:25 am

Ingersoll-Rand / Oil-lubricated

 Ingersoll-Rand Twin-Stack P1IU-A9
Model : P1IU-A9
Buy on Amazon

Table of Contents...

    • 0.1 Choosing the Right Air Compressor
  • 1 Oil vs Oil-Free Air Compressors
    • 1.1 How an Air Compressor Works?
    • 1.2 Which is better? Oil or Oil-Free Air Compressors.

Oil lubricated air compressors require more maintenance, are generally heavier but they are the first choice for professionals.

Craftsman / Oil-free

Model : CMXECXA0200341
Buy on Amazon

Oil-free air compressors are the most popular type due to their portability, they run cleaner and are very low maintenance.

Choosing the Right Air Compressor

With so many options available, choosing between an oil vs oil-free air compressor is one of many important decisions you’ll need to make. Portability is a key factor. Do you intend using your air compressor in a shop or on a jobsite? Output (Psi and CFM) is another important consideration and this can be affected by the lubrication method. In other words, whether the air compressor is oil lubricated or not. We’re going to be discussing the oil compressors, with an emphasis on oil vs oil-free lubrication.

I’ll be providing detailed information on air compressors. How they work and how they are lubricated will form a basis for the discussion. Before I go into all the technical details, I’ll give you a quick reference to the pros and cons of using either type of air compressor (oil or oil-free).


Oil vs Oil-Free Air Compressors

Here are two of the most popular air compressors to illustrate the differences.

Makita MAC700 / Oil-lubricated

Professional grade. Higher maintenance.
Buy on Amazon
  • Generally the first choice for professional shops
  • Heavier, larger and, therefore less portable
  • Portability also hindered by the chance of oil spill during transportation
  • Perform better in hot working conditions
  • Require routine maintenance
  • Oil may contaminate the air
  • Last longer

DEWALT D55140 / Oil-free

Low maintenance.
Buy on Amazon
  • Cleaner, uncontaminated air
  • Better portability as they are lighter and there’s no chance of oil spillage
  • Lower maintenance as no oil changes or filters are required
  • Perform better in extremely cold weather
  • Quieter : Less noise
  • Shorter lifespan

The points listed above are only intended as a guide. To fully understand oiled and oil-free air compressors, I’ll be providing the technical details for a more comprehensive understanding of these machines.


How an Air Compressor Works?

All air compressors use a pump to force air into a tank. As more air is forced into the tank it becomes compressed, thereby increasing the pressure. The pressure is managed by a switch that controls the power supply to the pump. When the pressure drops, the pump switched on and runs until the maximum pressure is obtained, when the pump will switch off.

VIDEO | A Closer Look at How They Work

YouTube video

Three types pumps are used to compress the air. Reciprocating air compressors are the most common. These use one or two pistons to force the air from the atmosphere into a tank in ever-increasing increments. Each stroke of the piston moves a small volume of air.

The rotary screw air compressor uses a helical coil or spiral lobe oil flooded screw to continuously force air into the tank. This method is generally used for high-volume, heavy duty, gas-powered air compressors. The type of machine you’d see used by road building crews. These air compressors are always oil lubricated and, therefore, don’t feature in this debate.

The final, least common, type of air compressor uses a centrifugal pump. Here a rotating impeller is used to force the air into the tank. These can be either oil or oil-free.

Since you’re most likely deciding between an oil lubricated or oil-free reciprocating air compressor, this is what I’ll be discussing.

The pistons used in a reciprocating air compressor are no different to those used in an internal combustion engine. Like the engine in your car, the pistons need lubrication. The major difference being; temperatures are lower in an air compressor because there is no combustion of gas. While air compressors run cooler than a gas engine, there is still heat generated by the friction between the piston and the sleeve in which it moves. To reduce this friction, a method of lubrication is needed.

Traditionally oil, like that used in your car’s engine, was the accepted method of lubrication for all air compressors.  Air compressors that use oil, are splash lubricated. This is a low pressure method of lubrication that uses the rotation of the pump to operate scoops that lift the oil and splash it into the piston chamber.

Since an air compressor doesn’t generate as much heat as an engine, engineers realized that a more efficient method lubrication can be used. By coating the cylinder sleeve with a friction reducing chemical (like Teflon), the need for oil lubrication is no longer necessary. This saw the introduction of oi-free air compressors.


Which is better? Oil or Oil-Free Air Compressors.

There was a time when I would have said oil lubricated air compressors are the best. But technology changes, and opinions have to change with this. Early oil-free air compressors weren’t the best for heat dissipation and tended to produce hotter air which increases condensation of water and hot air is less dense. They were also much noisier and  tended to be less durable.

To overcome some these disadvantages, most oil-free air compressors utilize two pistons, reducing heat and noise. Using an aluminum housing with improved airflow technology, has further improved the efficiency and operating temperature of oil-free air compressors.

However, oil-free air compressors have their limitations. Despite design improvements, cooling for an oil-free air compressor is never as efficient as an oil-lubricated counterpart. Furthermore, without oil to lubricate it, the size of the piston that can be used is limited. Even when using two pistons, oil-free air compressors remain smaller, lower-volume machines.

The real advantage to using an oil-free air compressor is lower maintenance and improved portability. This makes an oil-free air compressor a good option for contractors who regularly transport their equipment form one jobsite to another. For a home shop, that doesn’t require exceptionally large volumes of compressed air, an oil-free air compressor can be a good choice.

Operating environment can also be a deciding factor. Oil-free air compressors rely heavily on air cooling. This means that in a hot climate, oil lubrication would be more beneficial. The opposite can be said for extremely cold climates. If the ambient temperature is consistently low, oil-free air compressors operate optimally. At really low temperature, oil increases in density and can form a sludge which will hinder performance. Hence, oil-free air compressors are usually better in cold conditions. While oil lubrication is preferable in hot conditions.

In professional situations, like a busy auto shop or manufacturing facility, oil-lubricated air compressors remain the preferred choice. If you’re using high-volume pneumatic tools, like impact wrenches and the like, increased CFM capabilities for the air compressor becomes more critical. This is of particular importance, when several tools are being used simultaneously. Since there is virtually no limit to the size of an oil air compressor, this is a natural choice for professional users.

Last Updated: January 31, 2023 at 4:25 AM / by Chainsaw Journal

Primary Sidebar

☄️ Home Emergency Backup

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

Last Update ► January 5, 2023

Look no further, above you will see the Westinghouse WGen9500c generator --- one of the best 9500 watt generators you can buy. Period!

🐶 Keep A Tidy Yard…

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Last Update ► April 12, 2023

Resin backyard storage sheds are a great addition to any home or garden. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, these sheds offer a convenient and secure way to store tools, equipment, and other outdoor essentials.

🐱 The Future is Cordless

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Last Update ► May 7, 2023

What's the best cordless chainsaw for 2023? If you're smart you'll take our advice and choose from our list of fantastic battery-powered chainsaws.

👂🏼 Quiet RV Power

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

Last Updated March 12, 2023

What's the best RV generator for you in 2023? Lucky for you, big brands offer some exceptional inverter generators in a wide range of power output and price points. So, don't worry, there's something here for everyone. I'm focusing on inverter generators because it's essential to have a quiet generator for your RV

🐭 Quiet Backup Power

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► May 2, 2023

Choosing the best dual-fuel inverter generator is a little more difficult today than it was only a year ago as many new, high-quality models have entered the market, & they're fantastic...

🌲 Firewood Facts…

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

Last Updated February 24, 2023

This article focuses on the always popular topic of firewood. It’s an essential thing for many people. Wood, we need it.

⚡️ Powerful Generators…

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

Last Updated January 23, 2023

What do you need it for and what's your budget? We take a deep dive and review many great 12000W generators.

🪑 The Craft of Wood Turning

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Last Update ► May 9, 2023

There are some tools that separate the best from the rest. I consider a wood lathe to be one of these. A machine that shows you’re a true craftsman. If you’re interested in buying the best wood lathe, you have my greatest respect. Using these machines, you’re able to turn perfectly molded ornate pieces, cut precision holes for screwless joins, and a lot more.

🌟 Clean, Portable Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

Last Updated March 7, 2023

Generators come in a variety to types, which you may or may not be aware of. Everyone has different needs when it comes to choosing the best camping generator their needs. The question is how much power do you need? What's your budget? Are you looking for an inverter generator or a portable power station?

🔥 Intelligent Pool Heaters

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Last Update ► February 15, 2023

Back in 2020 I'm sure a lot of us wondered if we'd ever make it to 2023, and here we are. We made it! The world is slowly going back to normal and now we're looking to find a fast-heating and energy efficient, 400,000 BTU pool heater. Why?

🌍 Clean Energy Chainsaws

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Last Updated May 1, 2023

You'll find a lot of differing opinions on what the best electric chainsaw is. The reason is because there is no right answer. I know, this might...

💨 Prepare for the Worst

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

Last Update ► February 14, 2023

What's the Best Portable Power Station for a CPAP? If you're using a CPAP machine at night the last thing you want to worry about is having the power go in the middle of the night ---

🪑 For Work or Play

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Last Updated April 7, 2023

A good portable table saw can easily be had for under $1000, but you won't be able to find a quality cabinet saw for that amount. This guide will save you a lot of time.

🌿 Powerful String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

Last Update ► March 25, 2023

If you're interested in a true professional-grade cordless string trimmer then you need to seriously consider the Makita 40V model.

☄️Never Let the Power Die

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Last Update ► February 12, 2023

What's the best dual-fuel portable generator in 2023? Well, like the answer to most questions in life, my answer is, "It depends."

🌒 Whisper-Quiet Clean Power

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

Last Update ► March 6, 2023

Well, the Westinghouse Electric Company built their first commercial electric power station in 1886 to supply Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Since then...

💎 The Most for your Money

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money  / Top Value Models

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money / Top Value Models

Last Update ► March 10, 2023

We have a chainsaw for a wide range of applications and budgets. I know the needs of consumers vary and there's no such thing as the "best" chainsaw for everybody. Whether you have a budget of under $100 or over $300 to buy a PRO-grade chainsaw, I have options for you to consider.

🔋 Compare New Explorer PRO

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome to my review of the the Jackery Explorer 1000. Jackery stands out as one of the best manufacturers of portable battery power stations and solar generators.

🍀 Shred Yard Debris

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Last Updated February 22, 2023

What's the best chipper/shredder for 2023? Keeping your lawn neat, tidy and clean requires a lot of work and tools. A chipper/shredder is one of better ways to spend your money for your home, alongside of a generator, lawn mower and chainsaw.

🔥 Time to Split Firewood

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome! 2023 is a great year to buy a log splitter. New machines are here for us to discuss. The Swisher LS22E is one of the best 22-ton electric log splitters available today. You can see it above. It's a standout among the crowd of "me too" models. It's a 120V electric 22-ton splitter and works with any standard home outlet.

👩🏻‍🦰 Watch Out Trees!

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

Last Update ► March 16, 2023

The 460 Rancher is designed for homeowners, farmers and ranchers who have a need to fell large trees in a single cut (or two), to cut firewood or to harvest large timber.

🍂 Ergonomic Leaf Blower

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 4, 2023

I think you'll be surprised to learn that in 2023, reputable brands are making cordless backpack leaf blowers that are equal to, or more powerful than many gas backpack leaf blowers --- and they're cheaper.

🍰 Generator Sweet Spot

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Last Update ► January 24, 2023

As far as value, you won't find a better overall generator than this WGen7500 series from Westinghouse. For starters, Westinghouse has been in business since 1886 so they know how to make generators, among other things. For 2023, this is the best 7500 watt generator for homeowners looking for emergency backup power.

💡 The Power of 3 Fuels

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Last Update ► February 20, 2023

A tri-fuel generator is quite a novel concept. I’m sure not too many folks are aware they even exist. Hybrid generators have become common. Most of us know a bit about dual-fuel generators. These can run on propane or gasoline, making them very convenient. An obvious question, I’m sure many of you are asking has to be: What is a tri-fuel generator?

👷🏼 Cheap Backup

DuroMax XP10000EH Review – All the Features You Need…Almost

DuroMax XP10000EH Review – All the Features You Need…Almost

Last Updated February 26, 2023

The DuroMax XP10000EH has been a popular dual-fuel generator for many years. The reasons for its success is rather simple, in fact the entire EH series from Duromax has been incredibly successful because of the overall build quality and reliability.

Footer

DMCA.com Protection Status
Do Not Sell My Personal Information

1199 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver, Canada
T: 604/437/8033

© 2014–2023 • Chainsaw Journal • Affiliate Disclaimer • —Stay Strong

  • This site contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase with our product links we may receive a small commission at NO COST TO YOU.(Learn More)