With today's emphasis on the
environment, it is critical that the generation of waste oils be
reduced as much as possible. Fortunately, the technology to provide
continuous online purification of mineral- and synthetic-based
lubricants has been available for quite some time. By constant
maintenance of such oils and synthetic liquids, the performance of
the related piece of machinery is greatly improved and its life
extended. The secondary benefits are obtained by savings on the
cost of oil when its condition calls for replacement.
One of the most common
contaminants – and most detrimental to oils and related equipment –
is water. Water enters the lubricating system through leaks in the
coolers, condensation due to temperature changes, and simply
through contact with humid air. Spilled oils are almost always
contaminated with water. Water depletes rust inhibitors and causes
direct corrosion of the reservoirs and steel components of
hydraulic and lubricating systems. Water can combine with gases
dissolved in the oil, such as ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, which
causes erosion of the sliding bearings.
