Rotary Screw Compressor Oil Maintenance Guide | Wemano

Imagine running your workshop all day, and suddenly, your rotary screw compressor stops — not because of a mechanical failure, but due to poor oil maintenance. We’ve seen this often in small repair shops and factories. The oil, neglected too long, turns thick or foamy, starving the system of lubrication.

That’s why at Wemano, we’ve built this guide — a practical, experience-based walkthrough to help you extend the life of your compressor and avoid costly downtime.

1. Why Oil Maintenance Matters for Rotary Screw Compressors:

Many owners underestimate the impact of oil quality. Rotary screw compressors rely on oil not only for lubrication but also for sealing, cooling, and cleaning. If the oil degrades, it can lead to increased friction, overheating, and component wear — causing efficiency loss and costly repairs.

2. Common Mistakes in Oil Maintenance:

• Extending the oil change interval: You might think the oil is still usable, but it's actually already expired.

• Using non-specialized oil: Automotive oil or general-purpose machinery oil can damage the screw seal.

• Neglecting filter and separator maintenance: This contaminates the oil circuit and shortens the oil life by half.

If you want to know about the oil that is suitable for your industry and has a good cost performance, please click screw air compressor with dryer.

4.Recommended Oil Types and Change Intervals:

For small and medium-sized businesses, choosing the right oil type is more important than simply pursuing a brand. Wemano recommends ISO-certified fully synthetic screw compressor oils, such as the Wemano WS series, which maintain low carbon residue and high lubricity even in high-temperature and high-load environments.

3.Signs of Oil Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore:

• Air temperature higher than normal.

• Strange noises during operation.

• Oil carryover or leakage around the separator.

• Discolored or burnt-smelling oil.

• Drop in pressure efficiency.

If you have any of the above questions, you can click here to learn more.

5. Step-by-Step Oil Change Guide:

• Stop the compressor and let it cool to below 50°C.

• Drain old oil completely, including the tank and separator.

• Replace oil filter and check O-rings.

• Refill new oil (check the sight glass halfway).

• Run for 5 minutes, then recheck level.

To get the full version in pdf, please click Wemano maintence guide.

6. Expert Tips from Wemano:

• Keep records of every oil change (hours/date).

• Always replace air and oil filters together.

• Use an oil analysis test every 6 months for continuous-use compressors.

• Combine oil maintenance with dryer and filter checks to ensure dry, clean air quality.

7. Conclusion: Extend Compressor Life with Proper Oil Care

A well-maintained oil system means fewer breakdowns, better efficiency, and lower costs. Wemano’s rotary screw compressors are designed for easy oil monitoring and minimal downtime — helping you save both time and money.