If the oil discharged from a purifier is to be free of water, dirt, and sludge and if the water discharged from the bowl is not to be mixed with oil, the proper size discharge ring (ring dam) must be used. The size of the discharge ring depends on the specific gravity of the oil being purified; diesel fuel oil, JP-5, and lubricating oils all have different specific gravities and, therefore, require different sized discharge rings. While all discharge rings have the same outside diameter, their inside diameters vary. Ring sizes are indicated by even numbers; the smaller the number, the smaller the ring size. The inside diameter in millimeters is stamped on each ring. Sizes vary in increments of 2 millimeters. Charts, provided in the manufacturers technical manuals, specify the proper ring size to be used with an oil of a given specific gravity. Generally, the ring size indicated on such a chart will produce satisfactory

MAINTENANCE OF PURIFIERS

results. If the recommended ring fails to produce satisfactory purification, you must determine the correct size by trial and error. In general, you will obtain the most satisfactory purification of the oil when the ring is the largest size that can be used without losing oil along with the discharged water.

Clean the bowl of the purifier daily according to the PMS, and carefully remove all sediment. The amount of dirt, grit, sludge, and other foreign matter in the oil may warrant more frequent cleaning. If you do not know the amount of foreign matter in an oil, have the purifier shut down and examined and cleaned once each watch, or more often if necessary. The amount of sediment found in the bowl indicates how long the purifier may be operated between cleaning.

Have periodic tests made to make sure the purifier is working properly. When the oil in the system is being purified by the batch process, tests should be made at approximately 30-minute intervals. When the continuous process of purification is used, tests should be made once each watch. Analysis of oil drawn from the purifier is the best method of determining the efficiency of the purifier. However, the clarity of the purified oil and the amount of oil discharged with the separated water will also indicate whether the unit is operating satisfactorily.

SUMMARY

This chapter covered the general procedures concerning repairs, troubleshooting, maintenance, and overhaul of internal combustion engines. Additionally, it covered the general maintenance of jacking gear and fuel and oil purifiers. Read and use the correct References, such as the manufacturers manuals and the PMS to operate and care for your equipment.