Rotary Screw Compressor Lubricant

Why Rotary Screw Compressors Need the Correct Oil

In an oil-injected screw compressor, lubricant passes through the air end and oil circuit continuously while the machine runs.

• Lubricates bearings and moving components
• Helps remove heat generated during compression
• Helps seal clearances inside the air end
• Supports reliable oil separation
• Helps protect internal surfaces
• Supports control of deposits and oxidation
• Contributes to reliable long-term compressor operation

Mineral vs Synthetic Screw Compressor Oil

4000-Hour & 8000-Hour Compressor Lubricants

Some products in this range carry 4000-hour or 8000-hour lubricant designations.

These should be treated as lubricant service categories rather than a guarantee that every compressor can operate for exactly that number of hours between oil changes.

RotEnergyPlus 46

RotEnergyPlus 46 is a synthetic 46 cSt lubricant range for compatible rotary screw compressors and is available here in several pack sizes.

RotEnergyFood 46

RotEnergyFood 46 is listed as a lubricant for rotary compressor applications where specific food-industry lubricant requirements apply. It is available in 5 litre, 18.5 litre and 207 litre pack sizes.

Rotar-EcoFluid Mineral Compressor Oil

Rotar-EcoFluid is a mineral 46 cSt lubricant range for compatible rotary screw compressors.

The expanded range includes 5 litre and 20 litre options in addition to the existing 3.8 litre product.

How to Choose the Correct Screw Compressor Oil

Can Different Screw Compressor Oils Be Mixed?

Compressor oils should not be mixed unless compatibility has been confirmed.

Different lubricants may use different base oils and additive packages. An unsuitable mixture can affect viscosity, foaming, seals, separator performance and deposit formation.

Screw Compressor Oil Changes & Servicing

Oil replacement should normally form part of the compressor's planned maintenance programme.

• Confirm the correct lubricant before draining the machine
• Check running hours and service history
• Replace oil filters where required by the service schedule
• Inspect the air/oil separator
• Check oil hoses and connections
• Inspect for leakage and excessive oil carryover
• Clean cooling systems where required
• Use the correct oil quantity
• Check operating temperature after service

High Screw Compressor Oil Temperature

High operating temperature should not automatically be treated as an oil problem. Possible causes can include:

• Restricted cooling airflow
• Dirty oil or air coolers
• Low lubricant level
• Incorrect lubricant
• Blocked oil filter
• Thermostatic valve problems
• High ambient temperature
• Poor compressor-room ventilation
• Internal compressor faults

Compressor Oil Storage & Handling

• Keep containers sealed until required
• Store away from water and contamination
• Clearly identify different lubricant types
• Use clean transfer equipment
• Do not return drained oil to a clean container
• Follow the product safety information
• Dispose of used compressor oil through an appropriate waste route

Need Help Identifying the Correct Screw Compressor Oil?

Send us the compressor and existing lubricant details and our team can help check the appropriate oil.

• Compressor manufacturer
• Full compressor model
• Serial number
• Existing oil name or part number
• Current running hours
• Last service date where known
• Required lubricant quantity
• Any food-industry lubricant requirement
• Photograph of the compressor data plate
• Photograph of the existing lubricant container or service label

Looking for a Different Compressor Oil?

Piston and rotary vane compressors can require different lubricants from oil-injected rotary screw machines.