Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/108300
ML LUBE TIPS SETTLING RATE AFFECTS OIL ANALYSIS The time when an oil sample is taken is an important factor in obtaining representative and trendable oil analysis data. The optimal time to take the sample is during the machine's normal operation, because after the shutdown, all the particles begin to settle. The rate of settling is defined by Stokes' law. Below are examples of how quickly some particles can settle 4 inches (assuming spherical-shaped particles): • 50-micron silica particle — 12 minutes maintain a pristine environment for the rolling elements inside. By checking this sight glass as often as the oil level sight glass, you can eliminate any water, dirt, bio-matter or wear particles that may accumulate on a daily basis. This gives you time to find where the contamination is coming from before any damage can occur. On the other hand, if contamination goes unnoticed or is simply allowed to remain for an extended period of time, an emulsion can be created, acids can form and additives can be depleted. • 50-micron steel particle — 2.1 minutes Extra Step Improves Oil Analysis • 50-micron copper particle — 48 seconds When oil samples are prepared for shipping to an outside lab, the labels often won't stick to the bottles. Consider using an eyeglass cleaner towelette to wipe off any unwanted film from your bottles. This allows the bottle to arrive appropriately labeled. • 50-micron chromium particle — 2.5 minutes Get More Life from Breathers When a desiccant breather becomes saturated, it can often be reused after it is dried out. Attach the breather to a clean, dry (minus 40 degree F dew point), compressed air line, such as for typical plant instrument air. Regulate the pressure down to 5 pounds per square inch (psi) and the flow to 0.5 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm). The desiccant will regenerate, and the breather can be reused. Experience has shown that most desiccant breathers can be regenerated up to three times, each time with a slightly shorter life span. How to Protect Your Reservoirs Carbon steel surfaces in lubricating oil reservoirs and storage containers will rust when exposed to water. Generally, there is sufficient moisture in the air to initiate rusting. Stainless steel provides the level of required protection but can be an expensive proposition. Most surface coatings do not stand up well to prolonged exposure to lubricating oil products — both synthetic and mineral oil-based compounds. Many years ago, a coatings division of General Electric developed a material called Glyptal 1201 to seal and protect surfaces, and to provide electrical insulation. The material has been used for several years to coat the interior surfaces of carbon steel tanks used in various industrial service applications, including lubricating and hydraulic applications. Surface application of this material following bead blasting or sanding of a tank surface can help prevent a recurrence of rust and corrosion. Keep Bearing Oil Pristine A bottom sediment and water (BS&W) sight glass installed on a pump, oil bearing or gearbox can be quite beneficial. It provides a window into the condition of the oil, helping the lube technician 18 | January - February 2013 | www.machinerylubrication.com Use a Tracer When Flushing Oil Systems When changing compatible oil types in a system, use a fluorescent tracer to identify when all ports are flushed and using the new oil. This tracer also helps identify hard-to-see leaks. To receive the Lube-Tips The leaks glow like a light newsletter, subscribe now at when the ultraviolet lamp www.machinerylubrication.com/ illuminates the tracer. page/subscriptions. The "Lube Tips" section of Machinery Lubrication magazine features innovative ideas submitted by our readers. Additional tips can be found in our Lube-Tips email newsletter. If you have a tip to share, email it to us at editor@noria.com.