Which characteristic defines a dry screw compressor?

A dry screw compressor is defined primarily by its operation without oil lubrication. This design allows the compressor to compress gases without introducing any oil into the compression chamber, which can be beneficial for applications that require a clean, oil-free air supply. The absence of oil helps reduce contamination risks in processes where oil can cause problems and is particularly important in industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics manufacturing.

By not utilizing oil in the compression process, dry screw compressors maintain a high level of efficiency and can often handle a wider range of gas compositions. The lack of lubrication also simplifies maintenance, as there are fewer components that require regular oil checks or changes. Overall, this characteristic contributes significantly to the functionality and suitability of dry screw compressors for specific applications.