The degradation of turbine oil can lead to electrical power failures and breakdown of other critical equipment.

Turbine oil degradation is the result of 4 main causes:

• Oxidation due to interaction with oxygen.
• Thermal degradation. Extremely high temperatures in a turbine can cause base oil and additive molecules to chemically change. The result is the formation of insoluble materials in the oil causing deposits, and in some cases, equipment failures.
• Water contamination is the main concern in hydropower and steam turbines, where water is boiled by nuclear fission, coal, gas, fuel.
• In gas turbines (jet engines, turboprops), contamination results from dust absorption, wear metals and oil degradation products.
• Additive depletion (antioxidants, demulsifiers, antifoam additives).

Two tests are recommended to monitor the condition of turbine oil:

• The RPVOT measures the lubricant’s resistance to oxidation and sludge formation.
• The RULER® test (Remaining Useful Life Evaluation Routine) measures the oxidative resistance levels of oil. This test can determine the remaining useful life of used oil by comparing its anti-oxidative concentration (oxidation inhibitors) with those of new oil.

For additional information, please view our December 2012, February 2013 and April 2013 Newsletters.