In the fast-paced world of modern industry, industrial oils play a vital and undeniable role. From huge power plant installations to a small production line in a factory, everyone needs high quality lubricants for optimal performance, friction reduction and heat transfer. But **what is industrial oil** and why is it so diverse? In this comprehensive article compiled by the expert team of Azarpaya Company under the management of Engineer Azarian, we will review the history, classification, production methods and precise applications of various types of industrial oils so that you can make the best choice for your equipment.
History of industrial oils: from animal fat to nanotechnology
The history of using lubricants goes back thousands of years. In ancient times, humans used animal fats and vegetable oils to lubricate heavy wheels and primitive machinery. But the real turning point occurred in the 19th century, at the same time as the industrial revolution. With the invention of internal combustion engines and more complex machines, the need for lubricants with more stable chemical properties was felt.
In the late 19th century, the discovery of crude oil and its distillation process led to the production of mineral oils, which was the starting point of the modern oil industry. However, pure mineral oils would break down under extreme temperature conditions or heavy loads. This challenge led to the emergence of additives and finally the production of synthetic oils in the 20th century. Today, with the advancement of nanotechnology and polymer chemistry, industrial oils have become engineered products that can operate at very high or low temperatures, under very high pressures, and in corrosive environments. Azarpaya company, relying on modern knowledge and the management of Azarian engineer, supplies all these generations of oil for various industries.
How to produce industrial oil: a precise and controlled process
To understand the quality of industrial oil, we must be familiar with its production process. The main process of mineral oil production starts from the distillation of crude oil. In the distillation towers, crude oil is separated into different parts such as gasoline, diesel and heavy diesel. The remaining heavy part, which is fuel oil or crude oil, is subjected to purification processes.
The most important step in the production of quality industrial oil is **hydrocracking** or solvent treatment. In this step, impurities, sulfur, nitrogen and aromatic compounds that can cause rapid oxidation of the oil and formation of sludge are separated from the oil. After refining, the base oil is combined with specialized additives such as anti-oxidation, anti-wear, anti-foam and viscosity index improver.
On the other hand, **Synthetic** oils, such as PAO or PAG base, are produced through controlled chemical reactions of monomers. These oils have a uniform molecular structure that makes them perform better in harsh conditions. At Azarpaya Company, we guarantee that all the supplied oils have a quality certificate and are in accordance with international standards.
Classification and grading of industrial oils
One of the most important issues in choosing the right oil is understanding classification systems. Without the correct rating, even the highest quality oil cannot protect your equipment.
Classification of industrial oils based on SAE viscosity
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has developed a system for classifying the viscosity of oils. The number before the W (Winter) symbol indicates the viscosity at low temperature, and the number after it indicates the viscosity at working temperature (usually 100 °C). For example, 46 or 68 oils, which are common in the industry, are classified according to the ISO VG standard, which is equivalent to SAE standards in many industrial applications. Choosing the right viscosity directly affects the life of bearings, gearboxes and pumps.
Types of industrial oil: uses and characteristics
According to the high variety of industrial equipment, oils are divided into different specialized categories. In the following, we will examine the most important categories that are provided by Azarpaya company:
1. Transformer oils and electrical insulation
These oils have two main tasks: electrical insulation and cooling of the transformer core and windings. Insulating oils should have high dielectric strength, good flash point and excellent oxidation stability. Any contamination or moisture in these oils can lead to insulation failure and serious accidents.
2. Hydraulic oil and high pressure systems
Hydraulic systems are the beating heart of many industrial machines. Hydraulic oil must have the ability to transmit power with minimal energy loss.
* **High Viscosity Index (VI) hydraulic oil:** These oils maintain a constant viscosity over a wide range of temperatures, which is critical for systems operating in temperature-fluctuating environments.
* **Hydraulic oil without zinc (Zinc free):** In systems that have sensitive valves with nickel-platinum coating, the use of oils containing zinc (ZDDP) can cause valve corrosion. Zinc Free oils are an ideal solution for these advanced industries.
3. Circulating oils and closed seals
For industrial machinery with centralized and circulating lubrication systems, the oil must have high oxidation properties and the ability to quickly separate water and air. Azarpaya company supplies all kinds of high quality circulating oils for pumps, fans and bearings.
4. Types of gear oils: mineral and synthetic
Gearboxes are under very high pressure and friction.
* **Mineral base oils:** are economical and suitable for most general applications.
* **PAO and PAG synthetic oils:** Polyalphaolefin (PAO) and polyalkylene glycol (PAG) based oils have excellent properties in gear surface coating, reduced energy consumption and long service life. PAG oils are excellent for closed systems due to their very low solubility in water, but care must be taken when choosing gaskets and seals.
5. Vacuum pump oils and atomic industries
In sensitive industries such as vacuum chambers and nuclear industries, silicone-based oils are used. These oils have a very low vapor pressure, which prevents contamination of the vacuum environment. High thermal stability and lack of chemical reactivity are key features of these oils.
6. Heat transfer oils
Closed and indirect heat transfer systems that require high working temperatures (up to 360°C) require special oils that do not oxidize and precipitate at high temperatures. These oils are widely used in petrochemical industries, refineries and industrial furnaces.
7. Process oils: emulsifying and stretching
* **Emulsifying oils (Cutting Fluid):** In machining operations such as turning and milling, these oils are mixed with water and have both cooling and lubricating properties.
* **Soap and drawing oils:** In metal forming processes such as wire drawing or sheet metal working, the oil must have high permeability to minimize friction between the part and the die.
8. Heat treatment oils (Quenching Oil)
After heating the steel parts, they must be cooled quickly to change their crystal structure and obtain the necessary hardness. Quenching oils should have high boiling point, suitable viscosity and controllable cooling speed. Choosing the wrong oil can lead to cracking or distortion of the part.
9. Compressor oils
There are different types of compressors and each one requires its own oil:
* **Spiral and blade compressors:** These compressors need oils that have cleaning and anti-foam properties.
* **Rotary screw gas compressors:** In refineries and gas industries, special oils are used that do not react with pressurized gases.
* **Refrigerating compressors:** These oils must be fully compatible with the refrigerant of the refrigerator and not lose their viscosity at low temperatures.
10. Turbine oils
Heat, water and gas turbines in power plants and petrochemicals work at very high speeds and high temperatures. Turbine oil must have excellent oxidation resistance, remove water quickly and not produce sludge. Long life of oil in turbines means reduced maintenance costs.
11. Special oils for machine tools and metalworking
For turning, drilling and milling of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, specialized cutting oils are used. These oils should cool the cutting, keep the workpiece surface shiny and prevent tool corrosion. Azarpaya company offers a wide range of cutting oils with different grades for high precision in machining.
12. Chain oils
Chains of conveyors and transmission systems in factories are under continuous wear. Chain oils should have good adhesion so as not to be thrown during movement and have anti-wear and anti-rust properties.
Why is it important to choose the right oil?
Using inappropriate or fake oil can lead to costly breakdowns, stopping production lines, increasing energy consumption and reducing the quality of the final product. A quality lubricant not only protects mechanical parts, but also saves up to 20% in energy consumption by reducing friction. Also, changing the oil on time with a quality oil can double or triple the useful life of the equipment.
The role of Azar Paya company in supplying industrial lubricants
At Azarpaya Company, under the management of Engineer Azarian, we are committed to providing the best lubrication solutions for various industries. With a deep understanding of Iran's industrial needs, our technical team provides a wide range of mineral, synthetic and specialized oils from reputable global and domestic brands. Free technical advice, analysis of used oils (Oil Analysis) and providing optimal solutions to reduce maintenance and repair costs (NPT) are among our special services.
Choosing the right industrial oil is not an expense, but an investment. By using the above guide and taking advantage of Azarpaya's technical knowledge, you can ensure that your equipment is in its best working condition. For more advice and to get the price list of all kinds of industrial oils, contact our experts.