The Oil-Free Phenomenon

In the air compression game, one major consideration of the compressor is the quality of the air that comes out (or nitrogen or hydrogen, or whatever gas you happen to be compressing).  The major disadvantage with any oil-lubricated compressor is the contaminating presence of the oil itself.  In certain quality grades, the standard for purification and air quality is quite high, and becomes incompatible with the contaminating presence of oil, even used as a lubricant.

This is why  RIX specializes in oil-free compressors.  While not a new technology (first introduced in the 1970s), the oil-free option remains the choice technology for much of the U.S. Military, scuba and firefighting applications, and other industrial markets.  Not only does an oil-free compressor mean less air contamination (helpful especially when you’re breathing the compressed air, as with scuba and firefighting), but there is less maintenance necessary when no filters or other purification systems need to be in place after initial compression.  This also has a positive effect on any downstream equipment, protecting against contamination of yet more machines by eliminating the need for an oil-based lubricant.  Oil-free technology also has the advantage of being easier on the environment – oil-free means free of oil leaks and spills as well.

At RIX, we were among the first to implement this innovation, and have since patented many variations for use in different specific fields, including among all branches of the Military, aerospace, scuba, firefighting, hyperbaric chambers, research laboratories, submarines, and more.  With a commitment to continued innovation, you can be sure to see our compressors in even the most exacting commercial and Military settings.  Look for us online on social media, or give us a call…we’d love to hear from you!