Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/655822
heaters can keep oil warm enough to allow it to flow as well as reduce the overall system pressure when the oil would otherwise be too thick to pump. Low-wattage heaters, electric blankets and steam piping are popular heating accessories designed to help the oil remain at a consistent temperature. If you are planning to utilize a heater, make sure it doesn't heat the oil too much, as this can degrade the oil and shorten its life. If steam is used, the oil should be routinely inspected for water ingression. Benefits of Gelation The tendency of an oil to gel at specific temperatures and with certain contaminants isn't always a bad thing. In fact, this property has been used in cleaning up spilled oil, particularly oils spilled in large bodies of water. The Environmental Protection Agency employs "gelling agents" to form gels in spilled oil while not reacting with the water. These agents are blended into the oil slick through mechanical agitation or through the action of the waves in the body of water. Once the oil gels, the agents can then be easily removed by skimming or any other form of separation. While not all oils perform the same way with contamination and cold temperatures, most problems associated with the thickening of lubricants can be avoided with a good contamination control program and by selecting the right lubricant for the application. Routine oil analysis can help detect issues related to oil gelation before any significant machine damage occurs. If temperature-con - trol devices such as heaters must be used, inspect them often for any signs of faults. Also, check the oil temperature to avoid overheating. With proper attention and care, the lubricants you use in cold tempera- tures can provide a long service life with few if any difficulties. About the Author Wes Cash is a senior technical consultant with Noria Corporation. He holds a Machine Lubrication Technician (MLT) Level II certification and a Machine Lubricant Analyst (MLA) Level III certification through the International Council for Machinery Lubrication (ICML). Contact Wes at wcash@noria.com. Most problems assoc iated with the thickening of lubricants can be avoided with a good contamination control program and by selecting the right lubri- cant for the application.