Reasons for the explosion of oil particles in air compressor oil

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An analysis of the reasons for combustion or explosion of the oil-gas separation element: In the air compressor industry, it is common to hear from many people that the oil-gas separation element catches fire, yet the ultimate cause cannot be determined. This is because we are unable to see it firsthand and can only conduct theoretical analyses. The analysis is as follows:

1. The oil-gas separation element itself does not burn; for combustion to occur, there must be accompanying conditions such as an ignition source and an oxidizing gas.

2. The static electricity generated by the oil-gas separation element does not easily create an ignition source. Static electricity is produced when compressed air passes through fiberglass, and it needs to dissipate to the compressor’s casing in order to be effective. Its function is to attract very small, irregularly moving oil particles onto the fibers; as more particles are attracted, larger oil droplets form. Due to oil being heavier than air, these droplets settle at the bottom of the oil-gas separation element and return to the lubrication system. This is a form of Brownian motion. If the static electricity cannot dissipate, the principle of Brownian motion cannot take effect. This is why conductive sheets are placed on the gaskets of the oil-gas separation element. Therefore, static electricity is not the cause of combustion.

3. One of the conditions for combustion of the oil-gas separation element is the presence of an oxidizing gas, namely compressed air. As for the ignition source, there are several possible causes:
1. Ignition can result from collisions between objects, such as rusted iron, carbon deposits, weld residues, or metal particles resulting from wear on metal components.
2. The engine oil used in the compressor is crucial. It is important that the oil’s flash point meets the required standards, as well as that its antioxidant properties are sufficient. The oil changes under pressure; at temperatures of 80 degrees and 100 degrees, its vaporization rate differs, with the vaporization rate at 100 degrees being 10 times that at 80 degrees. Thus, the higher the vaporization rate of the engine oil, the more carbon deposits will form. These deposits, influenced by the compressor’s temperature, continue to heat up until an ignition source is created.
3. It is also important to check whether the compressor’s pressure relief valve is damaged. If it is damaged, gas collisions may occur when several compressors are in use, which can easily lead to the creation of an ignition source