Zinc level increase in a Wind turbine Gearbox

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The level of zinc in the Gearbox increases up to 100ppm. Different sources are possible like paintings, brass, zinc plated. Neverthelees not all the models of Gearbox nor oils show the same behaviour.
Is it possible some oils react with the metals depending on temperature or conditions? How can affect this level of Zinc to the proper lubrication or oil properties? Any test recommende to find the source and the impact on the oil?

8/27/151:11 AM

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nurudinMember

Zn alone, it may come from the additive of the oil. Check the fresh oil.
Zn along with Cu and Fe, it may come from bearing.

If you doubt about the abnormality which may happen in the gearbox, check the PQ Index, and Patch Test (to see how is the wear metal pattern by microscopic analysis).
Regards.

8/31/154:23 PM

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sdvizcayMember

Thank you very much. Nevertheless, in this case, Zinc is not part of the additive nor correlates with Cu and Fe.

My concern is due to some oils could attack brass, zinc plated, paintings or materials more than others.

No special particles are found, the zinc could be dissolved in the oil.

Regards,

9/1/151:50 AM

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brettl3Member

....may want to check if gearbox oil has an EP additive..it will attack brass in the gearbox..the chemical reaction between the non ferrous metals(brass)and sulfur(active)will show an increase in zinc content...

9/1/1512:38 PM

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sdvizcayMember

Thank you again!

Does it make sense that the same oil could show different performance (I mean, attack or not brass) depending on site conditios, like temperature, humidity, wind hours, loads? In some Wind Farms this increase is clear but not in others working with the same oil.

9/1/1511:45 PM

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nurudinMember

Had you try to check with another lab, as second opinion?

9/3/157:16 AM

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brettl3Member

...I would check if the gearbox oil has an EP additive...and if indeed you have non ferrous metal in the gearbox. If so, speak with a lubrication engineer to get another type of oil...I have read that the windmill turbine gearboxes are a different breed to deal with using the right gear oils. Even the OEM oils wont hold up...

9/3/156:27 PM

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