To compress natural or process gases is a complex task: no matter whether the gas compressor is situated on- or offshore, whether it is used for carbon capture, hydrogen compression or in a biogas plant, for refineries, the chemical or petrochemical industry. Depending on the composition of the gas stream in the process, most conventional compressor oils can react with components of the gas, leading to excessive viscosity dilution, the formation of sludge and deposits, or high carryover rates. Premature wear, extra downtime for maintenance, high oil consumption and shorter oil change intervals are common consequences. At Klüber Lubrication we tune our lubricants to our customers’ needs and the types of gases being compressed.
When mixing under high pressure and temperature, gases may not only be dissolved in the oil, but they are also prone to react with base oils or additives. The complex chemical system present in an oil flooded compressor hosts a vast potential for chemical reaction and polymerisation. The resulting sludge and other residues affect the lubricity of the gas compressor oil, lead to considerable wear on components such as rotors and bearings, or clog oil filters and separators. As a result, the oil consumption of the gas compressor rises, machines need to be stopped for unscheduled maintenance, and oil replaced frequently – all leading to substantial costs.
Three easy steps to enhance your oil management
To break this cycle, reduce costs and establish a more sustainable utilisation of resources, Klüber regards lubricants as an essential design element of the compressor, just like bearings, rotors, or cylinders and pistons. More than 90 years of practical experience in research, development, and the application of specialty lubricants ensure a product quality that increases the reliability, availability, and production capacity of compressors. At Klüber Lubrication we take the whole picture into account to devise the perfect solution.
1st step: Collect all necessary data
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customer provides the detailed gas stream chromatography
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suction and discharge temperature and pressure
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consider all process details and current issues
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accommodate manufacturer’s instructions and possible limits for oil content in the gas stream
2nd step: Interpret data considering
- determination of the gas compressed subject to dilution in the oil
- viscosity
- additives needed
- any other particularities of the gas stream and operating conditions
3rd step: Recommendation by Klüber Lubrication experts
- most suitable lubricant from our product range
- submit a product suggestion with all necessary information to switch to the new gas compressor oil
