Overview
Turbine and gearbox oils pick up water from seals, coolers and condensation, and particles from wear. Water in lube oil breaks down the oil film on bearings and speeds up corrosion. A lube oil filtration machine removes that water and dirt while the oil stays in the system.
TOFM lube oil filtration machines use the same platform as our transformer oil filtration machines: vacuum below 0.1 mbar, filtration to 1 micron or finer and controlled heating. Hydro-electric plants are a common case: turbine lube and governor oil can see water ingress from seals and coolers. For these duties TOFM can add an integrated oil-water centrifuge ahead of vacuum dehydration.
How does lube oil filtration work?
Features and advantages
Better cleaning
Water and particle removal in one machine.
Centrifuge option
Integrated oil-water centrifuge for heavy water ingress.
Industrial automation
Controls, interlocks and monitoring where specified.
Service and spare parts
Support and spares from the manufacturer.
Applications
- Steam and hydro turbine lube oil systems
- Governor oil systems
- Gearboxes
- Compressors
- Diesel generator sets
- Lube oil storage tanks
Industries served
- Hydro-electric and thermal power plants
- Oil and gas
- Process plants
- Steel and cement
- Heavy engineering
Technical specifications
| Machine type | Lube oil filtration machine |
|---|---|
| Overall capacity range (TOFM oil filtration machines) | 50 LPH to 20,000 LPH |
| Configuration | Mobile (trolley or skid) or stationary |
| Vacuum level | 760 mmHg (gauge), below 0.1 mbar absolute |
| Moisture content after treatment | 3 to 5 ppm |
| Filtration rating (micron) | 1 micron or finer (below 1 micron) |
| BDV after treatment | Up to 80 kV |
| Heating | Oil temperature controlled up to 65 °C; heater range ambient up to 150 °C |
| Power supply | 415 V, 3 phase, 50 Hz; other voltages and 60 Hz for export Typical |
| Controls | Industrial automation, PLC / HMI where specified |
| Integrated oil-water centrifuge | Optional |
| Minimum order quantity | 1 unit |
| Manufacturing lead time | Up to 60 to 70 days |
Specifications depend on the model and configuration. Request the datasheet for your capacity.
Frequently asked questions
Why does water in lube oil matter?
Water weakens the oil film that separates bearing and gear surfaces, encourages corrosion and speeds up oil ageing. Removing it protects the equipment and extends oil life.
When should a lube oil filtration machine include a centrifuge?
Add a centrifuge when the oil carries large amounts of free water or sludge, for example after a cooler leak or in hydro plants with seal water ingress. The centrifuge removes the bulk water quickly, then the vacuum stage removes dissolved water.
Can the machine run while the turbine is operating?
Many lube oil systems allow side-stream treatment from the oil tank. Whether this is suitable depends on your system and operating procedures, and TOFM will review it during technical consultation.
What is the lead time?
Manufacturing takes up to 60 to 70 days, with a minimum order of 1 unit.
