Keep it Clean

We often fall victim to the logic that equipment can withstand many...

We often fall victim to the logic that equipment can withstand many hours of operation in the hardest environments without the need for extraordinary maintenance. The reality is that machines cannot survive without dedicated attention to contaminants, which can be introduced through many forms (repairs, humidity, hose failures, attachments, wrong...

Gearbox applications are challenging when attempting to achieve and maintain an aggressive...

Gearbox applications are challenging when attempting to achieve and maintain an aggressive level of lubricant cleanliness. A balance must be maintained between what is financially feasible and what is absolutely best for the machine. This paper discusses these challenges and looks at three case studies where tight lubricant cleanliness levels...

In the course of fluid monitoring, it is necessary to know when...

In the course of fluid monitoring, it is necessary to know when fluid contamination can be repaired, or when a system needs to be flushed. Careful evaluation helps determine if the fluid is salvageable, and if not, it is important to know how much fluid will be needed to flush...

Microscopic particles are the most harmful form of lubricant contamination. They initiate...

Microscopic particles are the most harmful form of lubricant contamination. They initiate irreversible microscopic damage that causes macroscopic damage, which disables and destroys bearings, gears, valves and other components. Lubricants can be filtered to remove microscopic particles; however, particles can damage equipment before being removed by filtration. The most proficient...

Several papers have recently been published discussing the problems of lubricant varnish,...

Several papers have recently been published discussing the problems of lubricant varnish, the mechanisms of formation and methods to "solve" lubricant varnish. Yet many challenges remain in solving varnish problems when modern oil formulations are used in certain applications, including large-frame gas turbines and centrifugal compressors. This is because the...

The foaming property of a fluid is one of its basic physical...

The foaming property of a fluid is one of its basic physical properties. Unfortunately, foam can cause serious problems with the life and performance of the fluid and the equipment being protected. Even though foam performance is often a defined specification for a new fluid, it is often ignored on...