Air tool oil is thicker than compressor oil and contains special additives to prevent rust and corrosion in pneumatic tools. It also has a higher viscosity index, meaning it maintains its lubricating properties over a wider range of temperatures. This is important for tools that are used in harsh environments or that generate a lot of heat, as it helps to prevent the oil from thinning out and losing its effectiveness.
Compressor oil is thinner and designed for use in the compressor itself, helping to lubricate the moving parts and prevent overheating. It has a lower viscosity index, meaning it is more susceptible to thinning out at higher temperatures. This is not as critical for compressors since the oil is not exposed to the same extreme temperatures as the tools themselves.
Because of their different formulations and purposes, it is important to use the right oil in the right application. Using air tool oil in a compressor can cause the compressor to overheat and suffer from excessive wear, while using compressor oil in a pneumatic tool can lead to the tool seizing or malfunctioning.
