The right turbine oil provides reliability for power plant
Written by John Sander
Conclusion
Turbine owners, like anyone with production equipment, desire reliability. Many turbine operators are experiencing a variety of problems while using newer turbine oils formulated with Group II or Group III base fluids. LE's Monolec Turbine Oils can be used eliminate these problems and ensure reliability, as proven by field performance and supported by scientific literature research. As illustrated in Figure 3 of Moehle's paper, a turbine reliability program should include the proper selection of lubricant, but true reliability is an entire program. Turbine oil varnish must be controlled not only by choosing the proper lubricant, but also by implementing proper fluid maintenance practices, such as filtration, installation of breathers and sight glasses, and education. In addition, it is critical to minimize lubricant mixing and to employ a turbine oil analysis program that evaluates thermal degradation and additive depletion.
