Semi-synthetic air compressor oil plays a vital role in the operation of air compressors. It can not only reduce friction and lower temperature, but also prevent wear of parts and ensure the normal operation of equipment. However, as the use time increases, the performance of compressor oil will gradually decline, so it needs to be replaced regularly. But there is no fixed time standard for when to replace it, but it needs to be judged based on many factors.
The replacement cycle of air compressor oil is usually clearly specified in the user manual provided by the manufacturer. Generally speaking, the service life of semi-synthetic air compressor oil is longer than mineral oil, but lower than full synthetic oil, usually between 2000-4000 hours, which needs to be adjusted according to the specific equipment and working environment. For example, in a high temperature and high load working environment, the deterioration rate of oil will accelerate, and it is recommended to shorten the replacement cycle. If the equipment runs for a long time and exceeds the recommended oil change time limit, it should be replaced immediately.
Fresh semi-synthetic air compressor oil is usually light yellow or amber and has high transparency. However, as the use time increases, the oil will gradually change color. If the oil turns dark brown or even black and the transparency decreases, it may mean that the oil has been contaminated or oxidized and needs to be replaced. In addition, if obvious particles, impurities or sediments are found in the oil, it also means that the oil has deteriorated and cannot be used anymore.
After long-term use, the viscosity of semi-synthetic air compressor oil may change. If the oil becomes too viscous, it may mean that oxidation is intensified, leading to the formation of sludge or carbon deposits, affecting the lubrication effect; if the oil becomes too thin, it may be contaminated by high temperature or water, resulting in reduced lubrication performance. Both of these situations will have a negative impact on the normal operation of the compressor. Therefore, once the viscosity is abnormal, the oil needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Under normal circumstances, air compressor oil should have good anti-foaming and anti-emulsification properties. However, if a large number of bubbles are found in the oil, it means that its anti-foaming ability is reduced, which may cause uneven lubrication and accelerate equipment wear. In addition, if the oil appears milky white or turbid, it is usually due to water contamination, resulting in emulsification. Water contamination not only reduces the lubrication effect, but may also cause corrosion of metal parts. Therefore, when foam or emulsification occurs, the oil should be replaced as soon as possible, and check whether condensed water or other pollution sources have entered the system.
Air compressor oil plays a role in cooling and reducing friction during equipment operation. If it is found that the equipment has abnormal temperature rise, increased energy consumption or increased noise during operation, it may be due to the decline in oil performance, weakened lubrication effect, and increased friction of parts. At this time, check whether the oil has deteriorated, and combine other factors to determine whether it needs to be replaced. In addition, if it is found that there is a metal friction sound or increased vibration during the operation of the equipment, it may also be caused by insufficient lubrication. The oil should be checked and replaced immediately.
Acid value (TAN): If the acid value increases, it means that the oxidation degree of the oil is deepened and needs to be replaced.
Viscosity index: Compared with new oil, excessive viscosity changes will affect lubrication performance.
Water content: Too high water content will cause emulsification, affecting lubrication and rust prevention performance.
Metal wear particles: If the oil contains a lot of metal particles, it may indicate poor lubrication, resulting in increased wear of parts, and the oil needs to be replaced and the equipment condition needs to be checked.
These indicators can be tested regularly or with portable oil testing equipment, which helps to accurately judge the health of the oil.
The replacement time of semi-synthetic air compressor oil is not fixed, but needs to be comprehensively judged based on multiple factors such as operating time, oil color, viscosity change, emulsification, equipment abnormality, and oil sample analysis. In order to ensure the long-term stable operation of the equipment, it is recommended that users regularly check the oil status, replace it according to the manufacturer's recommended cycle, and make adjustments based on the actual operating environment. If the oil is found to have deteriorated, it should be replaced as soon as possible to avoid affecting the working efficiency and service life of the equipment. Through scientific and reasonable maintenance, the service life of the oil can be maximized, equipment failures can be reduced, and production efficiency can be improved.
