Rotary screw compressors are the workhorse of industrial operations across Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and throughout BC. Designed for continuous duty, they deliver consistent pressure and flow — and with proper maintenance, can provide decades of reliable service.
Oil lubricates, cools, and seals the rotors. Degraded oil loses viscosity, oxidizes, and accumulates contaminants — accelerating internal wear. Change at manufacturer-specified intervals: typically every 2,000 hours (mineral oil) or 4,000–8,000 hours (synthetic).
Unique to rotary screw compressors. A clogged or failed separator causes oil carry-over into your compressed air — damaging downstream equipment and wasting expensive compressor oil. Replace every 4,000–6,000 hours.
Protects the rotors from airborne contamination. In dusty environments — woodworking, construction — this needs attention far more frequently than the standard schedule.
Dirty oil and air coolers cause the compressor to run hot, degrading oil and triggering thermal shutdowns. Clean annually at minimum.
Controls airflow into the compressor and modulates capacity. Requires periodic inspection and service.
Oil (mineral)
2,000 hrs
Oil (synthetic)
4,000–8,000 hrs
Air filter
1,000–2,000 hrs
Oil separator
4,000–6,000 hrs
Cooler cleaning
Annually
Motion Air Compressors services rotary screw compressors from all major manufacturers — Atlas Copco, Ingersoll Rand, Sullair, Kaeser, Gardner Denver, and more. We use OEM-specified fluids and filters and track service history to help you stay on schedule across Metro Vancouver and BC.
How do I know when my oil separator needs to be replaced?
Signs of a failing oil separator include: oil carry-over in the compressed air (visible misting, oil in downstream filters), higher-than-normal operating pressure or differential pressure across the separator, and increased oil consumption. Most manufacturers recommend replacement every 4,000–6,000 hours regardless of apparent condition.
Can I use generic oil in my rotary screw compressor?
Using non-specified oil is one of the most common — and most damaging — mistakes in rotary screw compressor maintenance. Wrong viscosity or incompatible chemistry can damage oil separators, cause rotor wear, and void manufacturer warranties. Always use the manufacturer-specified fluid.
A clogged intake filter reduces airflow, causing the compressor to run hotter and work harder to maintain output pressure. This degrades oil faster, accelerates wear on internal components, and can trigger thermal shutdown. In dusty environments, check filters far more often than the standard schedule.
Ready to get started? Contact Motion Air Compressors today — we come to you across Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Whistler, Vancouver Island, and throughout BC.
