Lubrication Systems For Turbomachinery

Abstract

A lubrication system for turbomachinery of significant size generally consists of a reservoir, pump, filter, cooler, piping and controls. Experience through the years has indicated design criteria required to minimize equipment failures and operational problems. Reservoirs must be designed to allow for proper separation of water and vapor from the circulated oil. Oil flow rates and cooling equipment should be designed to maintain proper oil and bearing temperatures and also optimize the water separation efficiency. Filters should be durable for long life and adequately sized to maintain a low level of contamination. Proper operating techniques and controls are required to minimize oil contamination and the resultant equipment damage. Special purification considerations may be required to combat oil deterioration due to contamination from sour gases such as H2S.