Varnish buildup in machinery lubrication systems is a common issue and a potential impending threat that can lead to severe operational problems. These include heat transfer issues, sticking valves, and increased wear, all of which can significantly impact the performance and lifespan of your machinery. Effective varnish removal and mitigation are not just crucial, they're a necessity for maintaining the machinery's intended performance and lifespan.
Varnish forms from lubricants' oxidation and thermal degradation, resulting in sticky, insoluble deposits. The recommended technologies for mitigating varnish are systems with adsorptive depth filtration media or ion exchange resins. The depth media systems capture precipitated varnish precursors very effectively. These precursors may already be present in the oil. If not, an oil cooler can lower the temperature, resulting in precipitation and filtration. The ion exchange resin can trap molecular and varnish precursors and precipitants. Depth filtration is typically used to treat larger reservoirs that require faster processing, while ion exchange units are used for smaller systems.
Both techniques remove varnish from the oil and equipment components. This is accomplished because the solubility of varnish increases as varnish precursors are removed from the oil. Therefore, varnish deposits dissolve from surfaces and pass through the filter or ion exchange bed, where they are removed. Over time, varnish deposits disappear and no longer form if the mitigation unit is installed and operating.
Regularly monitoring and maintaining lubrication systems is essential to detect early signs of varnish formation and promptly address them. Implementing a varnish mitigation program helps prevent the recurrence of deposits, ensures smooth operation and reduces maintenance costs.
Investing in varnish removal and mitigation solutions is not just a smart move, it's a strategic investment that can significantly enhance your overall equipment reliability and performance. By keeping your lubrication systems clean and efficient, you're not just preserving the integrity of the system, you're ensuring longer equipment life, fewer breakdowns, and improved productivity. The value of this investment cannot be overstated.
