When is lube oil required on industrial air compressors?
On One Hand: It Depends On The UsageOil change intervals depend on how often the machine is used, said Mike Rosini, a technician with Pacific Air Compressors. A home shop’s compressor only needs a change every three years. In an industrial setting, however, change the oil two to four times a year. “It’s like a car,” said Rosini. “The air filters and oil get changed according to usage and the operating environment.”On the Other: There Are Rules of ThumbIn general, a compressor should have the oil changed every 2,000 operating hours. Check the oil before each shift. Machines have either an eyelet or a dipstick with which to examine the oil. Make sure it’s free of debris and doesn’t look burnt.Bottom LinePerform regular inspections, but change the oil at a regular interval regardless of whether or not the oil looks bad.