The presence of titanium in used oil analysis is generally a result of contamination from paint. This is often expected from new or rebuilt components such as gearboxes. Titanium can also result from wear of high alloy bearings, or high-quality steel in gears.

We recently had a gearbox that had been in service for some time. The oil analysis results showed increasing levels of titanium, copper, nickel and iron. Upon inspection we found one of the gears was painted. The oil had a high level of acid, the gearbox was running hot, and the paint was melting and curdling off of this gear. (Brian Groff, Minserco, Inc.)

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Book Bits: Tips for Keeping Contaminants Out

From the book "Lubrication Fundamentals"

If simple precautions are not observed, contamination of lubricants with subsequent damage to machines can occur during storage or during transfer of oil or grease from the original container to the dispensing equipment, or to the equipment being lubricated.

Pumps, oil cans, grease guns, measures, funnels and other dispensing equipment must be kept clean at all times and covered when not in use. Where operating conditions justify them, centralized dispensing or lubrication systems that keep the lubricants in closed systems and, therefore, protected against contamination, are highly recommended.

More information about "Lubrication Fundamentals"

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Question: What is the most destructive type of chemical reaction affecting oils in service?

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"Do you have any recommendations or guidelines for properly flushing gearboxes?"

Deciding when and how to flush equipment including gearboxes depends on a number of factors including the criticality of the equipment as well as the level and type of contamination. A number of articles have been published in Machinery Lubrication magazine to help readers with this topic. Some links to these articles are below:

When to Perform a Flush

Navigating the Maze of Flushing Tactics

Flushing Strategy Rationalization

Flushing and the Voice within Your Oil

How to Flush Gearboxes and Bearing Housings

Sabrin Gebarin, Noria Corporation

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Resources

Did you know?
Synthetic lubricants are not always the answer.
LE Enhanced Lubricants outperform synthetic and conventional lubes
800-537-7683
www.le-inc.com

INTERNORMEN's
CCS 02
Online particle counter with laser sensor for hydraulic and lubricating fluids, ISO 4406:99, 4406:87, NAS 1638, storage of measurements.
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