The emulsification of compressor oil can have a series of adverse effects on equipment, specifically including:
1.Reduced lubrication effect: After the lubricating oil is emulsified, its lubricating performance is greatly reduced, which cannot effectively protect the internal parts of the air compressor, increasing mechanical wear and friction.
2.Decreased Oxidative Stability: Emulsified lubricants are susceptible to the effects of oxygen and high temperatures, leading to a decrease in oxidative stability. This results in the formation of sludge and deposits, affecting the normal operation of the air compressor.
3.Energy Efficiency Decrease: The emulsified lubricating oil increases air resistance, leading to increased energy consumption when the air compressor operates, thus decreasing the equipment's energy efficiency.
4.Causes of Compressor Shutdown: Lubricant emulsification can lead to compressor shutdown, affecting normal production. In severe cases, it may cause the compressor to be rendered obsolete and even result in major accidents. For screw compressors, potential mechanical failures due to lubricant emulsification include stuck main bearing, damaged rotors, etc.
5.Increased repair costs: Lubricant emulsification can lead to the need for more frequent repairs and replacement of components, which can increase repair costs.
6.Shortening Equipment Lifespan: A compressor running in an emulsified lubricating oil state for a long time will experience increased wear on its internal components, potentially shortening the equipment's lifespan.
To avoid these adverse effects, appropriate preventive and control measures should be taken, such as using high-quality lubricants, regularly changing the lubricants, controlling environmental humidity, increasing lubricant temperature to prevent moisture condensation, regularly checking and maintaining the air compressor lubrication system, as well as regularly draining.