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Maintenance Guide for Industrial Oil Purification Systems

Time:2025-11-12 13:11:37  Reading volume:

Regular maintenance of oil purification systems—commonly used for lubricating oil, insulating oil, and hydraulic oil—is essential to ensure long-term stable operation, extend oil life, and protect critical equipment.


This guide outlines daily checks, periodic maintenance, condition-based strategies, and troubleshooting methods for optimal performance.

I. Daily Operation and Monitoring

Routine monitoring is the first line of defense for preventing system failures and ensuring consistent purification results.

Pre-Start Checks

  • Oil Level: Ensure the oil reservoir or main tank level is within the normal range.

  • Connections: Confirm that all pipes, valves, and fittings are correctly connected and leak-free.

  • Power and Instruments: Verify normal voltage supply and that all gauges (pressure, temperature, vacuum) show proper readings.

  • Drain Valves: Ensure all drain and blowdown valves are fully closed.

During Operation

  • Pressure Monitoring: A rising pressure difference often indicates a clogged filter or high oil viscosity.

  • Temperature Control: Keep heater and vacuum tank temperatures within set limits to avoid localized overheating.

  • Vacuum Stability: In vacuum oil purifiers, a stable high vacuum ensures efficient dehydration. Fluctuations may signal air leaks or vacuum pump failure.

  • Noise and Vibration: Listen for abnormal sounds—possible signs of cavitation, bearing wear, or loose components.

  • Visual Checks: Use sight glasses to observe oil foaming and the water separation rate.

II. Regular Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is the foundation of system reliability. Follow a fixed schedule based on time or total operating hours.

CycleMaintenance ItemOperation / Standard
Daily / ShiftPost-Shutdown CleaningClean equipment surface, remove oil residue, and drain separated water.
Weekly / MonthlyElectrical System CheckInspect motor current, clean the electrical cabinet, and tighten connections.
Weekly / MonthlyLeakage InspectionCheck seals, flanges, and valves for leaks.
Monthly / QuarterlyFilter Replacement / Cleaningreplace filters based on pressure differential or lifespan:
• Pre-filter/Fine filter: replace if ΔP ≥ 0.35 MPa
• Adsorption filter: replace per test results or design life
• Centrifuge discs or plate filter cloth: Clean thoroughly.
Monthly / QuarterlyVacuum Pump ServiceCheck vacuum pump oil quality and level. replace emulsified or darkened oil. For water ring pumps, renew working fluid.
Monthly / QuarterlyPump & Motor InspectionCheck for leaks at shaft seals; inspect bearings and apply grease if needed.
Semi-Annual / AnnualComprehensive OverhaulClean vacuum tank and oil reservoir; calibrate instruments; inspect heaters, valves, and safety devices.

III. Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM)

CBM adjusts maintenance frequency based on real-time performance and oil quality data, improving cost-efficiency.

Oil Quality Analysis

Regularly test oil before and after purification to assess system performance.
Key indicators:

  • Cleanliness (NAS/ISO code)

  • Moisture content

  • Acid value

  • Dielectric strength

If post-treatment results fall below target levels, the issue may involve filter failure, bypass leakage, or inadequate dehydration.

Trend Analysis

Record operating data such as pressure, temperature, vacuum level, and current each run.
Use trend charts to spot early signs of wear or malfunction—for example, a gradual current increase may indicate a rising mechanical load.

IV. Common Faults and Quick Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible Causes
Reduced purification efficiencyClogged or damaged filter element, insufficient vacuum, heating fault, or excessive flow rate.
High system pressureSeverely blocked filters, closed valves, or high oil viscosity due to low temperature.
Unable to establish vacuumVacuum pump malfunction, pump oil emulsification, or air leaks in seals or valves.
Excessive noise or vibrationPump cavitation, worn bearings, loose couplings, or high inlet resistance.

V. Maintenance Management Best Practices

1. Maintenance Record System

Keep detailed records for each unit, including service dates, replaced parts, and operational anomalies.

2. Spare Parts Inventory

Stock essential consumables—filter elements, O-rings, sealing gaskets, and vacuum pump oil—to minimize downtime.

3. Personnel Training

Ensure operators understand system operation principles, maintenance steps, and safety protocols.

4. Safety Precautions

  • Always power off and depressurize before servicing.

  • Avoid burns when handling hot oil.

  • Keep the work area clean to prevent slips and contamination.

Summary

Effective oil purifier maintenance depends on:

Frequent inspection, scheduled replacement, data-driven monitoring, detailed records, and strict safety compliance.

Combining daily checks, regular preventive measures, and condition-based predictive maintenance maximizes system reliability and efficiency—keeping your turbine, transformer, or hydraulic equipment supplied with clean, reliable oil.

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