The Problem
During the fabrication and installation process, lube oil supply and return lines will accumulate harmful contaminants such as welding slagmetal shavings, dirt, water, and other enviromental contaminants. Failure to remove these contaminants prior to system start up can result in damage to journal bearings and prevent the system from maintaining the OEM’s ISO 4406 specification for fluid cleanliness.
Our Solution
IFM was contracted to perform a high velocity oil flush to remove all contaminants prior to commissioning start-up.After all jumpers and equipment were installed, standard flushing tactics including sparging, mechanical knocking on pipes, and thermocycles were utilized until clean screens were achieved. IFM was able to complete all four flushes achiving two consecutive one hour verification screens and a 16/14/11 particle count within just 10 days allowing the plant to start the two pumps within their original timeline.