Air Compressor Oil Case Study

Situation

In 2012, Mobil engineers proposed the next generation air compressor oil – Mobil SHC™ Rarus 68 – as a candidate trial oil in a Kaeser DS 170 rotary screw compressor for a period of two years. The purpose of the trial was to assess the performance of Mobil Rarus SHC 68 lubricant against the current product in use, for productivity improvement and extended oil drain interval. Previously, the compressor was using ISO VG68 synthetic oil and the Oil Drain Interval (ODI) was 6,000 hours. The system was flushed to minimize commingling between the current oil and test oil. As part of the Mobil™ Planned Engineering Service (PES) program, the used oil samples are collected on regular intervals for Mobil ServSM Lubricant Analysis.

Recommendation

Mobil SHC Rarus 68 was recommended as a synthetic air compressor oil to increase productivity, improve equipment reliability and provide the potential to deliver up to three times the oil drain interval of a leading synthetic compressor lubricant. Its outstanding oxidation stability, varnish and sludge control, resistance to rusting and corrosion, and excellent antiwear properties help to extend compressor oil life.

Benefit

Mobil Serve Lubricant Analysis results have shown that Mobil SHC Rarus 68 oil remained in good condition with stable viscosity (at 40°C), low oxidation level, low TAN and low metal wear after operating for two years. The ODI of 14,000 hours has been extended up to two-and-a-half times the original ODI of 6,000 hours. The company reports Mobil SHC Rarus 68 lubricant and the Mobil Planned Engineering Service program have improved productivity, increased equipment reliability and helped SOXAL to save US $6,766 annually.

*This success story is based on the experience of a single customer. Actual results can vary depending upon the type of equipment used and its maintenance, operating conditions and environment, and any prior lubricant used.