Choosing Between Oil-Lubricated and Oil-Free Rotary Screw Air Compressors

When selecting a rotary screw air compressor, the choice between oil-lubricated and oil-free models hinges on various factors. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the level of air quality required for your application. Consider the following points to make an informed decision:

Oil-Lubricated Rotary Screw Compressors:

  • Cost-Effective: Typically more budget-friendly upfront.
  • Efficiency: Higher energy efficiency, translating to lower operating costs.
  • Maintenance: Regular oil changes required, along with maintenance of oil filters.
  • Air Quality: May have some oil carryover, suitable for industrial applications where perfect air purity isn't essential.
  • Application: Ideal for applications where a small amount of oil carryover is acceptable, such as manufacturing and workshops.

Oil-Free Rotary Screw Compressors:

  • Air Purity: Essential for industries demanding completely oil-free air, like medical, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.
  • Low Maintenance: Less maintenance due to no oil changes or oil-related issues.
  • Initial Cost: Higher upfront cost but potential long-term savings in maintenance and air quality.
  • Efficiency: Slightly less energy efficient than oil-lubricated models.
  • Noise Level: Generally quieter due to the absence of lubricating oil.
  • Application: Crucial for industries where air quality is paramount, such as cleanrooms and sensitive manufacturing processes.

If you have any questions about choosing the right air compressor for your business, Contact Evergreen Compressed Air and Vacuum to talk to one of our experienced sales representatives!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Choosing between oil-lubricated and oil-free compressors depends on your industry needs. Oil-lubricated models are cost-effective and energy-efficient, ideal for manufacturing, automotive, and general workshops. Oil-free models are recommended for industries like pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and electronics, where pure air is critical.

Oil-lubricated compressors require periodic oil changes, filter replacements, and regular system checks. Oil-free models have lower maintenance needs but should still be serviced regularly to maintain efficiency and longevity. Evergreen offers tailored maintenance programs to keep your system running smoothly.

We provide a wide range of ELGi rotary screw compressors, from 4 HP to 300 HP across both EN and EG Series, with options for base mount, tank mount, VFD, and integrated dryer systems — making it easy to match your exact application and space requirements.

Yes! Evergreen Compressed Air and Vacuum provides end-to-end support — from product selection and installation to routine maintenance and emergency service — across Seattle, Olympia, Everett, and surrounding cities in Washington State.

Simply fill out the contact form on this page with your details. One of our sales representatives will reach out to discuss your requirements and recommend the most efficient compressed air solution for your business.