Frequently Asked Questions

Ingersoll Rand Oil-less Recip Compressors

11/30/2020

1. What’s different between oil-lubricated recip vs. oil-less recip?

Oil-lubricated recip compressors require oil in the pump’s crankcase to lubricate the internal
components. Oil-less recip compressors, on the other hand, have a completely dry crankcase. In
order to maintain reliable operation, the oil-less pump design integrates hardened plated
cylinders with PTFE piston guide rings and sealed greased bearings.

2. What do we mean by a compressor being “oil-less”?

Oil free is a condition of the air, and oil less is a condition of the package. “Oil free” rotary screw
air compressors still use oil to lubricate gears and bearings but utilize shaft seals to prevent any
oil from migrating into the compression module. Therefore an oil free rotary compressor is not
“oil-less”. An oil-less reciprocating/scroll compressor has no lubrication system, so no oil can
contaminate the compressed air adding a layer of protection for the customer’s process or use.

3. What are the maintenance requirements?

Maintenance intervals & requirements for the new oil-less recip packages are similar to what
you’re used to on the Type 30. The exception, of course, is oil: the new oil-less reciprocating
compressors use no oil. Refer to the Operators Manual for detailed information.

4. Are oil-less recip compressors loud?

Ingersoll Rand’s new oil-less compressors run quieter than the oil-lubricated Type 30. These are
still only semi-unenclosed reciprocating compressor packages though, so the noise level will still
be higher than rotary screw/scroll technology. For more detail, see the sales technical
presentation.

5. Where do our oil-less recip compressors come from?

IR Oil-less recip compressors are assembled in Princeton, IL. Components (motors, castings, etc)
are sourced globally.

6. How are Ingersoll Rand branded oil-less recip compressors different than Gardner Denver?

Ingersoll Rand’s new oil-less compressors are identical to the Gardner Denver branded
packages. The only difference in product design is the different paint / branding scheme.

7. How are Ingersoll Rand branded oil-less recip compressors different than the competition?

Ingersoll Rand’s new oil-less recip compressors offer competitive pricing and performance with
other manufacturers on the market. Robust pump & component design allow for continuous
duty operation and long life.
8. What options are available to sell?

All options are listed in the available End Item #s -- refer to the sales technical presentation
and/or price pages for more information on available packages. Any options or packages not
shown are not available.

9. Will CARE service programs be available for scroll compressors?

CARE programs are not currently available, but are being investigated by our teams for future
availability.

10. How do we order?

Refer to the price pages: End-Item #s for compressor packages are available. Enter these the
same as you would for a part order against the DLC. From there, the order will interface from
Oracle to the manufacturing facility in Princeton, and Princeton will ship directly to the “Ship-
To” location on your order.

11. How do we select options?

Compressor packages are available as end item CCN’s with specific voltages, tank sizes, and
horsepower. No further ‘custom’ configurations are available at this time. If you have a sizeable
opportunity that is outside of this offering, please contact the NA Product Support team to
determine if we can meet your requirements.

12. Can these units be installed outdoors or in harsh environments?

No, not recommended for outdoors or harsh environments. Available packages are rated for
Nema 1, ODP only.

13. Who manufacturers the motors?

Primarily WEG, Baldor, Nidec, Marathon