Vacuum Pump Oil

[philipswanson]

What kind of oil do you use in your vacuum pump? Is motor oil ok? Or maybe mineral oil? Can't see wasting big bucks on "Special" pump oil. What kind of base oil is this so-called pump oil?

[Al9]

It's "Special" for a reason. There's a dedicated additive package for a rotary vane vacuum pump in it. As with refrigerant oils vs hydraulic oils (base oil might still be PAG, but the additive package is totally different; i might add the R&D behind additive packages for specific applications is simply put impressive).

Since most packages say it's a synthetic oil, and PAO isn't hygroscopic (you want any recovered moisture to get out, rather than stick within the oil), the base oil is likely PAO.

[Cusser]

Check the board sponsor or https://www.harborfreight.com/32-oz-com ... 68097.html

[philipswanson]

So is compressor oil basically the same as vacuum pump oil?

[Cusser]

So is compressor oil basically the same as vacuum pump oil?

Sometimes.

[Al9]

No real way to tell, because MSDSs seldom go deep in such detail. Again, your best bet is using the proper oil.

[Tim]

Not sure what Harbor Freight uses in their oil. For $8.00 dollars would be your best bet. Since money seems to be the issue.

We sell Santech oil. It's a known oil and is reliable.

https://www.ackits.com/vacuum-pumps-and ... m-pump-oil

[philipswanson]

Money is not the big issue. Don't like to waste it though. It's more curiosity. Or is it just an oil ripoff. I have a vane type vacuum pump and have it apart. It's nothing but a rotor spinning around a housing insert. Can't understand why any special oil would be required. Vapors are released thru an external vent and don't flow backwards against vacuum. Seems like a ripoff myth. Love exploring myths just like the TV show. I plan to use PAG oil 150 in it.

[Dougflas]

Every vacuum pump manufacturer states to use vacuum oil. This oil is $20.00 per gallon. I change my oil after every burnout. If it is not a burnout, then I change it after every 3rd vacuum. I do not want to have my oil contaminated with moisture.