Evaluation of turbine oil performance using TOST
Turbines are rotating prime movers in which the energy of a fluid is converted into mechanical energy, which is then used to generate electricity. The most commonly used fluids are steam, hot gases produced directly from burning fuel, and water. Turbine oil must lubricate the shaft bearings, remove heat, operate the servomechanisms of regulating valves, and, if present, lubricate the gear reduction units. End-users of turbine oil expressed their greatest concern as unplanned downtime during turbine operation. If a power company is unable to provide power, the cost of downtime can be significant. Today's turbine systems operate under increasingly harsh conditions, including wider temperature variations. Temperature fluctuations in turbine oil can cause oxidation and thermal degradation, which is caused by the oil's elevated temperatures. The physical and chemical properties of lube oil, as well as common contaminants such as water and solid particles, must be carefully monitor...