Reducing water contamination in oil is crucial for maintaining lubricant performance and extending equipment life. One effective method involves using specialized filters.
A simple solution for filtering out water from certain types of oil, such as polyglycol oil, is to use a filter constructed of cellulose media.
Understanding Water Contamination in Oil
Water can enter oil systems through various means, including condensation, leaks, or environmental exposure. Its presence can lead to:
- Reduced lubrication performance
- Increased oxidation of the oil
- Corrosion of metal components
- Formation of sludge and varnish
- Cavitation in hydraulic systems
Therefore, removing water is a key part of oil maintenance.
Using Cellulose Filter Media
As mentioned in the reference, a filter constructed of cellulose media is a simple and effective solution for filtering out water from polyglycol oil.
Cellulose is a natural fiber that has a high affinity for water. When oil containing water passes through a cellulose filter, the cellulose media absorbs and retains the water molecules, effectively removing them from the oil stream.
Considerations When Using Cellulose Filters
When implementing this filtration method, especially when using a filter cart or similar setup, several factors should be taken into account:
- Oil Viscosity: The viscosity of the oil significantly impacts flow rate through the filter. When selecting a filter cart, be sure to take into account the high viscosity of oil used. Higher viscosity oils may require different pump capacities or filter housing designs to ensure adequate flow and filtration efficiency.
- Amount of Moisture: The capacity of the cellulose filter to absorb water is limited. Consideration will also need to be made for the amount of moisture present in the oil. Heavily contaminated oil may require multiple passes through the filter or the use of larger or multiple filter elements to achieve the desired water level.
- Filter Capacity: Be aware of the water-holding capacity of the specific cellulose filter element. Once saturated, the filter will no longer remove water and may need to be replaced.
- Filter Location: The filter system should be placed where it can effectively treat the bulk oil volume or target specific high-contamination areas.
Benefits of Cellulose Filtration
- Cost-Effective: Cellulose filters are often less expensive than other water removal technologies.
- Simple to Implement: Filtration is a straightforward process that can often be added to existing systems or used with portable filter carts.
- Effective for Dissolved and Emulsified Water: Cellulose media can absorb both dissolved and emulsified water up to its saturation limit.
While cellulose filtration is effective for certain applications like polyglycol oil, other methods like vacuum dehydration or coalescers may be used for different oil types or higher levels of contamination. However, for a simple solution focused on polyglycol oil, a cellulose filter is a viable option.
