The primary difference between an oil-free and an oil-flooded (or oil-lubricated) air compressor lies in the lubrication process, and the resulting air quality each produces.
Oil-free compressors, which do not use oil for lubrication, are ideal for industries requiring pure air, such as food processing and healthcare, due to the absence of oil contamination. They typically require less maintenance related to oil but may experience higher wear on non-lubricated parts and are less energy-efficient.
In contrast, oil-flooded compressors use oil in the compression chamber for lubrication, cooling, and sealing, making them more energy-efficient and cooler-running but necessitating regular maintenance for oil changes.