Journal Published Online: 01 June 2006
Volume 3, Issue 8

Review of Degradation Mechanisms Leading to Sludge and Varnish in Modern Turbine Oil Formulations

CODEN: JAIOAD

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an unusually large number of reported cases associated with varnish and sludge formation in turbine-generator and compressor applications using Group II turbine oil formulations. Explanations for these problems have varied but typically include Group I/Group II incompatibility, additive instability, bulk oil oxidation, adiabatic compressive heating, electrostatic discharge, among others. This paper reviews these failure pathways and discusses actual case history including root cause analysis. Analytical methods for the sludge/varnish and the degraded oil are also reviewed.

Author Information

Fitch, JC
Noria Corporation, Tulsa, OK, USA
Gebarin, S
Noria Corporation, Tulsa, OK, USA
Pages: 10
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JAI13504
ISSN: 1546-962X
DOI: 10.1520/JAI13504