Whether mixing synthetic silicone oil compressor oil with conventional mineral compressor oil will affect performance requires analysis based on the compositional characteristics and physicochemical properties of each. Synthetic silicone oil compressor oil uses chemically synthesized silicone oil as its base oil, boasting a stable and uniform molecular structure, excellent high-temperature resistance, and chemical inertness. Conventional mineral compressor oil, on the other hand, is derived from refined petroleum distillation products and has a relatively complex composition, containing a variety of hydrocarbon compounds and natural impurities. The molecular structures and chemical properties of the two oils differ fundamentally.
When mixing two different types of engine oil, the first potential issue is incompatibility between the base oils. The molecular structure of synthetic silicone oil differs significantly from the hydrocarbon structure of mineral oil. Mixing may result in a failure to form a stable homogeneous system, leading to stratification or precipitation. This instability in physical properties directly impacts the overall performance of the engine oil, leading to uneven lubrication and, in some areas, increased wear due to insufficient oil film strength.
Additive interactions are also a key concern. Both synthetic silicone oil and mineral compressor oil contain various additives to improve performance, such as antioxidants, anti-wear agents, and defoamers. Additives in different types of engine oils may conflict with each other, potentially leading to chemical reactions when mixed, rendering the additives ineffective or producing harmful byproducts. For example, certain anti-wear additives may exhibit opposite effects in different base oils, reducing the oil's lubricating and protective capabilities.
Mixing can alter the viscosity characteristics of engine oils, affecting their fluidity and sealing performance within the equipment. Synthetic silicone oils generally have a more stable viscosity index and exhibit less viscosity fluctuation with temperature changes, while mineral oils are more sensitive to temperature. The resulting oils may not maintain their original viscosity characteristics. At high temperatures, the viscosity may drop too quickly, preventing them from forming an effective oil film. At low temperatures, the high viscosity may increase equipment starting resistance, adversely affecting compressor operation.
From an equipment protection perspective, long-term mixing of two oils may accelerate the formation of sludge and carbon deposits. The unsaturated hydrocarbon components in mineral oils are susceptible to oxidation and deterioration at high temperatures. While synthetic silicone oils are more stable, mixing can lead to contamination from the mineral oil's oxidation products, resulting in a decrease in overall antioxidant performance. These oxidation products combine with impurities in the engine oil to form a sticky sludge that deposits inside the equipment, clogging oil lines and filters, and affecting the proper functioning of the cooling and lubrication systems.
Seal compatibility is also a critical issue. Different engine oil types have different effects on rubber seals. Synthetic silicone oil and mineral oil may cause different swelling or contraction effects on the seal material. When the two oils are mixed, seals may not adapt to the properties of the mixed oil, leading to accelerated aging and reduced sealing performance. This can cause oil leakage, further impacting equipment safety and service life.
Overall, mixing synthetic silicone oil compressor oil with conventional mineral compressor oil presents multiple potential risks, potentially adversely affecting oil performance, equipment lubrication, and sealing systems. To ensure stable compressor operation and extend service life, mixing two different types of compressor oil is not recommended. When changing oil types, thoroughly clean any residual oil inside the equipment to ensure the new oil can perform optimally in a pure environment and avoid various problems caused by mixing.
