Lubricants can thermally degrade for a variety of reasons and causes. Unlike oxidation, thermal failure can occur in new lubricants with healthy additive packages. However, many of the symptoms of oxidation are also symptoms of thermal degradation.

One of the most common causes of thermal failure in hydraulic fluids and some lubricating oils relates to aeration, i.e., entrained air bubbles. These bubbles can become rapidly compressed in hydraulic pumps and in the squeeze zones of bearings. This results in high localized temperatures. Hot surface carbonization is another form of thermal failure. When an oil thermally degrades, problems associated with sludge, varnish, deposits, viscosity change, and additive decomposition will often occur.

From "Oil Analysis Basics"

The best place to sample engine crankcase oil is just before the filter. Install the sampling valve between the pump and filter. This sample location is highly preferred over sampling from a drain port or using a vacuum pump and tube inserted down the dipstick port.

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Bacterial contamination of large circulating oil systems in steam turbines, paper machines and similar systems can clog control systems, quickly degrade oil quality and oil performance and produce corrosive byproducts.

This article explains how to recognize the problem, types of lubricants and conditions that appear to be most susceptible, methods of treatment, and known methods to clean up and prevent bacterial contamination.
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OCTOBER 2009

Machinery Lubrication I
27-29 Nashville, TN

Análisis de Aceite Parte I
19-20 Bilbao

Análisis de Aceite Parte II
21-22 Bilbao

Control Efectivo de la Contaminación
27-29 Querétaro, Qro.

Controle Efetivo de Contaminação
21-23 São Paulo, Brazil

Lubricación para Plantas con TPM
6-9 Monterrey, N.L.

Oil Analysis I & II
26-29 Selangor, Kuala Lumpur