Technology
India unveils first oil-free water-injected screw compressor with Pravriddhi support
The breakthrough technology was created indigenously with grant support from the Ministry of Heavy Industries and technical mentorship through the Pravriddhi programme
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By ICN Bureau | March 03, 2026
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India’s first Oil-Free Water-Injected Screw Compressor (HYDRINO)
Pravriddhi, the pan-India product accelerator run by the Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), has announced the commercial launch of India’s first Oil-Free Water-Injected Screw Compressor, HYDRINO, developed and manufactured by Kirloskar Pneumatic Company Limited (KPCL).
The breakthrough technology was created indigenously with grant support from the Ministry of Heavy Industries and technical mentorship through the Pravriddhi programme.
“The commercial launch of the Oil-Free Water-Injected Screw Compressor marks a significant milestone for KPCL and for indigenous industrial manufacturing in India.
"The technical mentorship and structured support under the Pravriddhi programme helped us accelerate development and validate the technology to global standards, enabling us to bring this advanced product to market,” said Neeraj Asati, GM & Head – Hydrogen Business & Technology, KPCL.
HYDRINO is engineered to meet ISO 8573 Class 0 oil-free air standards, delivering contaminant-free compressed air for quality-critical sectors including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage processing, and electronics manufacturing.
By removing oil from the compression chamber and bearings and using water for cooling, sealing, and lubrication, the compressor promises high reliability, energy efficiency, and continuous oil-free operation—all in a compact, low-noise design.
The launch highlights India’s growing prowess in advanced industrial technology, reducing reliance on imports and boosting national manufacturing self-reliance.
