Detailed instructions are furnished with each purifier concerning its construction, operation, and maintenance. When you are responsible for the operation and maintenance of a purifier, study the appropriate NAVSEA technical manual and follow the instructions carefully. The following sections will provide general information on the methods of purification and the principles of operation of centrifugal purifiers.

Figure 9-5.-Enlarged section of ribbon in strainer.

Centrifugal purifiers are used for purification of both fuel and lubricating oil. A purifier may remove both water and sediment, or it may remove sediment only. When water is involved in the purification process, the purifier is usually called a SEPARATOR. When the principal contaminant is dirt or sediment, the purifier is used as a CLARIFIER. Purifiers are generally used as separators for the purification of fuel. When used for purification of a lubricating oil, a purifier may be used as either a separator or a clarifier. Whether a purifier is used as a separator or a clarifier depends on the water content of the oil that is being purified.

NOTE: According to the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) at the time of the writing of this training manual, purifiers are not authorized for use with diesel engine lubricating oil systems.

The following general information will help you understand the purification process, the purposes and principles of purifier operation, and the basic types of centrifugal purifiers in use in naval service.