Determining the Cause of High Phosphorus Levels in Turbine Oil

“When we drained one of our turbine oil filter housings, inductively coupled plasma (ICP) elemental analysis showed phosphorus levels at about 1,600 parts per million (ppm), which is abnormal. The acid number was approximately 0.29. Do you have any insight as to what could be causing the high phosphorus levels?”

 

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ASTM Reinstates Test Method for Determining Water in Oil

  • Oil Clotting and the Adrenaline Effect

    We are all familiar with blood clotting and its role in constricting blood flow after injury. Clotting depends on the coagulation of platelets and blood cells aided by fibrin molecules to trap and bind them together. This coagulated mass effectively plugs capillaries to stop uncontrolled hemorrhaging and bleeding.   Read
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  • Hydrodynamic Cleaning and Flushing of Turbine Oil Systems

    One of the most important but underestimated factors impacting the operation of turbines (both steam and gas) and other machinery is the condition of the oil, especially its “mechanical” cleanliness (presence of solid particles). Although the need for appropriate oil care is commonly accepted among power plants with regular maintenance
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  • Distinguishing Regulators and Reducing Valves

    We have seen a lot of confusion about pressure reducing valves and regulators in fluid power systems. This confusion is largely due to the nomenclature and partly because the schematic symbols are not always as intuitive as they could be.   Read more
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