Bennett Fitch | Noria Corporation
ENERGY CONSERVATION, HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT Factor: E3M
Understanding and Managing Oil Leaks
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Images Courtesy of Brian Ramatally (CASL)
Small leakers are often the biggest risk, simply because they are more likely to go unnoticed or without much concern afforded to them.”
We all know leaks make a mess. Why do they keep happening? How do we know if a leak is something to be concerned about or if it is just commonplace for plant equipment? Well, given that rotating equipment and lubricated equipment are practica lly synonymous, oil leaks can be more common than we would like. Thus, understanding the risks associated with an oil leak is important. While preventing leaks all together is desirable, it’s often not achievable. Therefore, we must be ready to reduce the leaks to an allowable amount based on variables of risk. For now, we’ll focus on oil leaks, although much
of what will be mentioned could also apply to grease leaks.
Any time oil escapes the lubrication system (sump, piping, etc.) and enters the external surroundings, this is an external leak. We are often aware of this, as there is visual evidence of the oil dripping out onto other components and forming a puddle on the floor. However, another type of leak occurs when unwanted oil seeps between internal chambers inside a lubrication system.
www.machinerylubricationindia.com
| November-December 2021 | 31
