An oil-free screw air compressor is an industrial compression system where the compression chamber contains absolutely no lubricating oil. Unlike oil-injected models, the male and female rotors operate without contact, often synchronized by precision timing gears. This design guarantees the output air meets ISO 8573-1 Class 0 standards, making it strictly required for sensitive industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage processing, and electronics manufacturing.
Why are top manufacturers switching from oil-injected to dry-type oil-free compressors? The advantages are clear:
The heart of any compressor is the air end. We utilize advanced German engineered dry screw air ends to ensure maximum reliability and performance stability.
| Feature | Oil-Free Screw Compressor | Oil-Injected Screw Compressor |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | ISO Class 0 (100% Oil-Free) | ISO Class 1-4 (Contains Oil Vapor) |
| Lubrication | Timing Gears & Coating (Dry) | Oil Injection in Chamber |
| Typical Application | Food, Pharma, Electronics, Medical | General Manufacturing, Textile, Mining |
| Maintenance | Lower (No oil changes/separators) | Higher (Regular oil & filter changes) |
| Initial Cost | Higher | Lower |
Where is Class 0 air absolutely non-negotiable?
With proper maintenance and premium German-standard components, a dry screw air end can typically operate for 40,000 to 60,000 hours before requiring a major overhaul.
Dry-type (using German technology) is generally more robust for heavy industrial use. While water-lubricated models offer lower temperatures, they require high-quality water filtration to prevent bacterial growth and corrosion inside the chamber.
Although the initial investment is higher, the ROI is realized through the elimination of oil purchases, filter changes, and condensate treatment costs, plus the mitigation of potential product spoilage risks.
Need a custom quote for your facility? Contact our engineering team today to discuss your Class 0 air requirements.
