Oxygen processing equipment lubrication

PFPE based lubricants for oxygen machinery

The importance of the use of correct lubrication is often overlooked. In some cases, using the wrong lubricant can result in unwanted friction, premature wear, sticking and noise.

In all cases the dynamics of the application must be understood as must the environment in which the lubricant is expected to operate. Often these factors are not considered due to ignorance of the importance of the lubricant to the proper operation of the equipment. In fact the lubricant is as important as any other component on the equipment and is often the ‘weakest link’.

Oxygen vacuum pump oil Molylub FluorTec LC

Proper oxygen machinery maintenance ensures safe, high-purity oxygen delivery and extends equipment life. Key actions include cleaning air filters weekly, wiping down the exterior, replacing nasal cannulas/tubing monthly, and scheduling professional service every 6-12 months. Crucially, never use alcohol or oil-based products on oxygen equipment due to fire hazards.

When considering these applications, it is easy to see that the incorrect choice of lubricant could be catastrophic however there are many other areas where the use of a lubricant that is not compatible with its surroundings or environment can be just as risky.

One of these critical applications is in high pressure oxygen, compressed air and nitrous oxide systems where there is the need for a great deal of care when using lubricants in the vicinity

PRODUCT	COMPOSITION	TEMPERATURES	APPLICATION	PDF
Molylub FluorTec OX	PFPE oil/ PTFE thickener	up to 260 / 300	Sub-oxygen pressure regulators, Gearmotors, Shut-off valves, Pneumatic valves, Mechanical devices operating inside hyperbaric chambers
Molylub FluotTec LC	PFPE oil	up to 220 / 260	special fluid for oxygen handling and lubrication of oxygen pumps and compressors

Oxygen reacts with conventional lubricants Including mineral and other synthetic oils and greases and this greatly increases the potential for explosion or fire.

In many industrial processes, the isolation and control of the concentration of this chemical element requires some fundamental precautions both for the success of the process itself and for the safety of the plants. Let’s look at the role of oxygen-compatible lubricating greases.

Fire resistant Oxygen compatible Molylub lubricant

For combustion to take place we require ‘three’ elements to be present; Temperature, Air with Oxygen and a Fuel. In the case of high-pressure air, the content of oxygen is higher than normal, the flash point (temperature at which the fuel will combust) is greatly reduced.

Using a conventional oil or grease in these cases can be extremely dangerous leading to combustion or even an explosion.

Molylub FluorTec OX Key Features:

• Service temperature range: -40°C to +250°C
• BAM tested and approved up to 440 bar O₂ at 60°C
• High resistance to liquid and gaseous oxygen
• Respiratory physiology assessment available
• Reduced lubricant requirements
• Odourless, transparent, and chemically inert
• Non-flammable and non-combustible
• Unlimited shelf life (at room temperature, unopened)
• Compatible with most metals, polymers, and plastics

Molylub FluorTec oxygen valve grease

This high-performance Molylub FluorTec oxygen grease is specially developed for applications requiring maximum resistance to liquid and gaseous oxygen. BAM tested and approved for up to 440 bar O₂ at 60°C, it ensures safe and reliable use in demanding environments.

The wide range of chemically inert Molylub FluorTec series fluorinated lubricants ensures the best available lubrication for all oxygen service equipment.

Molylub FluorTec products provide excellent lubricity leading to extended equipment life versus alternative technologies.