Bradley Universal Vacuum Pump Oil

Dirty oil is the most common reason a good vacuum pump stalls above target. BRADLEY Universal Vacuum Pump Oil is a mineral-based, ISO VG 46 vacuum pump oil made for the rotary vane pumps used in air conditioning and refrigeration work. Fresh oil in the sump gives the vanes a clean seal, so the pump can pull down properly instead of fighting moisture left behind by the last job.

It suits split system installs, heat pump commissioning and commercial service work, where a pump might see several evacuations a week. Keep a bottle in the van and you can change the oil on site instead of limping through the next job on tired oil.

Best for: HVAC installers, refrigeration mechanics, service technicians, and apprentices looking after their first pump.

Compatible with: most rotary vane vacuum pumps used in HVAC/R service. Check your pump manual for its oil grade and sump capacity before ordering.

BRADLEY Universal Vacuum Pump Oil – ISO VG 46

Features

• Low moisture content, so the oil adds as little water as possible to the pump when you start a pull-down.
• ISO VG 46 viscosity holds up as the pump heats during long evacuations.
• Thermal and oxidation stability slows breakdown, so the oil lasts longer between changes.
• A film that protects the vanes and bearings, reducing wear and extending pump life.
• Mineral base that suits most rotary vane pumps, so one bottle covers several pumps in a workshop.
• 1L and 4L sizes, so you can match the bottle to one pump or a whole fleet.

Technical Specifications

• Oil type: mineral-based vacuum pump oil
• ISO viscosity grade: ISO VG 46
• Viscosity: approx. 46 cSt at 40°C
• Relative density: approx. 0.86
• Flash point: 200°C or higher
• Pour point: -12°C or lower
• Appearance: clear oily liquid
• Sizes: BRA-VPO-1L (1 litre), BRA-VPO-4L (4 litres)

What's in the Box

• 1 x BRADLEY Universal Vacuum Pump Oil (1 litre or 4 litres, depending on the option selected)

Why "Low Moisture"

• Water in the oil boils off under vacuum and holds the pump at a higher reading. A low-moisture oil gives it less to fight.
• A high flash point of 200°C or more shows the oil is stable at pump operating temperatures.
• A pour point of -12°C or lower keeps the oil flowing on a cold morning start in places like the Melbourne winter or a cold regional shed.
• Stable viscosity keeps the vane seal consistent, so pull-down times stay predictable from job to job.

Changing Your Vacuum Pump Oil: Step-by-Step

1. Run the pump for a few minutes to warm the oil. Warm oil drains faster and carries more contaminants out with it.
2. Switch the pump off, unplug it at the power point, and close or cap the inlet so nothing falls in.
3. Put on gloves and eye protection. Place a drain container under the pump's drain port.
4. Open the drain and let the old oil run out completely. Tilt the pump slightly if your manual allows it.
5. Close the drain, then fill through the fill port until the oil sits at the mid mark on the sight glass. Do not overfill.
6. Run the pump briefly with the inlet capped and check the oil level again. Top up if needed.
7. Cap the inlet when you finish. Store the pump upright and the bottle sealed, away from moisture.

Limitations & Safety Notes

• This is a mineral oil for rotary vane vacuum pumps. Always confirm your pump manufacturer's oil recommendation first.
• It is not a refrigeration compressor oil. Do not use it in a compressor or a refrigerant circuit.
• Refrigerant work needs a current ARCtick licence. This oil only maintains the pump.
• Used oil is waste. Collect it and dispose of it through a licensed waste oil collector or recycler, never down a drain.
• Keep the oil away from ignition sources and read the supplier's safety data sheet before use.
• Change the oil after each evacuation where contamination or moisture is present.

Vacuum Pump Oil FAQs

What grade is this vacuum pump oil?

It is a mineral-based ISO VG 46 oil, with a viscosity of approximately 46 cSt at 40°C.

Will it work in my vacuum pump?

It is suitable for most rotary vane vacuum pumps used in HVAC/R work. Check your pump manual for the recommended oil grade before ordering.

How often should I change the oil?

Change it after each evacuation where contamination or moisture ingress is present. Cloudy or milky oil should be changed straight away.

What sizes does it come in?

There are two sizes: BRA-VPO-1L (1 litre) and BRA-VPO-4L (4 litres).

Can I use it in a refrigeration compressor?

No. It is made for vacuum pumps only and is not a compressor lubricant.

Why Buy From HVAC Shop

• Genuine BRADLEY product, supplied by an Australian business operating since 2020.
• Specific part numbers listed (BRA-VPO-1L, BRA-VPO-4L), so you order the right size first time.
• Fast Australia-wide shipping, with orders shipping within 3 business days.
• Price match guarantee, and trade accounts welcome.
• Talk to the team if you're unsure which oil suits your pump.