Turbine oil 32

Hi Brett,
I wonder if there is a gland leak on the oil circulation pumps or a blocked intake filter, (if it has one,) as both would create fine air bubbles, the least foam the better as with foam there is more surface area of turbine fluid exposed to air assisting an increase in oxidation,
Regards

Rob S

Hi Brett,

Is it OK now ?
Your oil sample was look good
Did you found any other abnormality in your equipment ?
Bearing temp? vibration? noise?

I am assuming your sightglass is "Bull Eye"
For me, if the floated white foam just 1mm - 2mm, i consider it as normal, due to normal mechanical activity (bearing, seal, and/or gear).

but if your bull eye is completely filled with the white foam, so it is a real foam problem.
- the foam generation may high (by mechanical activity)
- or, it may the oil is not able anymore to release foam


regards,

Thanks for the reply guys! We still have some slight aeration and Im almost certain...it is mechanical. The gearbox has to be the cause. The manufacturer has very little to say about the oil aeration issue. Its not really in their scope of business, So sometimes I found it is better to ask questions until I find the answer. Again, Thanks.....

Do you used same oil, has the brand /type changed during the change?
This can cause foaming.

I oil is over filled is also a issue that casue foaming.

Do you have orifice in turbine?

...somehow the wrong oil ended up getting put into the system and then a large slug of water to cap things off...we have since changed to a "geared" turbine 32 oil and the foaming has settled down. Just was overly cautious since the wrong oil incident. Thinking that some foam is ok but have not found anyone to back me up on that. The lube system is low pressure but high volume and does lube the gearbox also. Anybody knows something about how much foam is normal?....Thanks, Brett

Hi Brett,
Take a sample an of the foamed lube and stand on bench it should clear in 3-4 mins, if longer check out the new oil tests on antifaomimg and compare to check if the lube is OK but it will be as you have changed it recently.
Once you are satisfied the lubricant is OK, (Should be as new) Then complete a WDA by microscope and check for light adhesive wear as that will check if the amount of foam is compromising the oil film thickness and is most likely is OK as we have drives that just "whip Cream" the lubricant but no wear when checked by microscope WDA. If you are able to complete the above and all OK then the application most does not warrent your time and concern until your monitoring notes any other changes from normal. Adhesive Wear and WDA explained on this link www.rttech.com.au
Regards
Rob S