Use infrared surveys on oil filters to easily determine if air is trapped at the top of the filter canister. Infrared technology will see the oil through the canister. If air is trapped at the top of the canister, the filter will not be in full use. At times, the filter canister may be filled only 1/4 to 1/2 full due to the air. The air-bleed valve must be opened to release the air, allowing the oil to rise to the top of the canister. In this way, the filter will be in full use. (Cyril Ontai, Predictive Maintenance Specialist, Hawaiian Electric Company)

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Book Bits: What Is Lubricant Volatility?

From the book "Basic Handbook of Lubrication"

The volatility of a lubricant is the property that defines its evaporative loss characteristics. The more volatile a lubricant is, the lower the temperature at which smaller hydrocarbon molecules will be driven off or evaporated. Volatility is most important in high-temperature applications where low-viscosity oils are used, such as engines, where high temperatures can cause loss of smaller hydrocarbons from the oil and thus increase the viscosity of the oil. As well, the more volatile a lubricant, the greater its flammability.

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"It seems as though the gear drives on the conveyors experience more water contamination problems in the spring and the fall than during other parts of the year. They are not directly exposed to rain, and they don’t have coolers, they operate continuously. What do you suggest to fix this problem?"

There are several generalities offered in the conditions described, and it is probably time to start measuring and charting some factors. Areas of the country with the highest rates of relative humidity will experience this more frequently.

First, verify that there are no human factors involved, particularly involving operators or housekeepers with a high-volume wash hose.

Second, try measuring the operating temperature of the equipment between the coldest and the hottest part of the day during the spring and fall. Also, watch the weather news for the dew point for every day. Regardless of whether it is operating or not, if the equipment temperature falls below the dew point then condensation can occur. If the temperature is this low, then the moisture is not going to be driven off very quickly.

Third, for large sumps, install a valve and start each day with a drain-and-inspect routine. Open the valve and slowly drain off any accumulated water. Measure the amount and log it with the other factors. Make note of the sumps that seem to be susceptible to moisture.

Fourth, once the offenders have been identified, replace the vent filters with desiccant-type air breather filters. If this has been done already, and the problem still exists, then consider installing a low-pressure air purge into the sump headspace. If you can maintain a positive pressure head, then water from atmospheric humidity will be eliminated. Be conservative with your air pressure though. Central air is expensive, and a small drain can contribute to a significant increase in embedded operating cost.

Mike Johnson, Noria Corporation

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