Free water removal and ISO cleanliness improvement
Following permanent installation of a CJC™ Filter Separator PTU3 2×27/108, water levels were reduced to nearly 0% and oil cleanliness improved from ISO 19/17/14 to ISO 16/14/11 within one week.
Application Snapshot
Industry:
Power
Country:
Saudi Arabia
Oil type:
ISO Mobil 832 & 797
Executive summary
The main lubricating system of a GE DEV1236 steam turbine experienced free water contamination due to seal failures and ongoing water ingress. This resulted in elevated system pressure, increased mechanical load, frequent shutdowns, and higher maintenance hours.
Oil samples showed a high contamination level of ISO 19/17/14 at the lube oil outlet tank.
A permanently installed CJC™ Filter Separator PTU3 2×27/108, equipped with eight cellulose filter inserts rated at 3 micron absolute, was commissioned in June 2022.
Within one week of continuous operation, free water levels were reduced to nearly 0%, and oil cleanliness improved to ISO 16/14/11.
Free water effectively removed
Water contamination was reduced to almost 0% within one week of operation.
Reduced shutdowns and maintenance hours
Improved oil condition reduced operational disturbances and maintenance demand.
Improved oil cleanliness
Oil cleanliness improved from ISO 19/17/14 to ISO 16/14/11.
Continuous and stable operation
The PTU3 system operates continuously at 2,400 litres per hour with a dirt holding capacity of 4 kg per filter insert.
Improved oil condition
The CJC™ Filter Separator PTU3 2×27/108 was installed and commissioned in June 2022 at the steam turbine lube oil tank.
Prior to installation, oil samples revealed contamination class ISO 19/17/14 and a significant presence of free water caused by ongoing ingress from seal failures.
After one week of continuous operation, water levels dropped to nearly 0%, and oil cleanliness improved to ISO 16/14/11.
In addition, the unit removed oil degradation products from the system, resulting in a cleaner and more stable oil condition and a measurable reduction in operational disturbances.
Results and operational impact
The PTU3 unit effectively separated free water and continuously filtered solid contaminants from the turbine lubrication system.
Improved oil condition contributed to:
• Reduced unplanned shutdowns
• Lower maintenance frequency
• Stabilised system pressure conditions
Filter inserts were replaced after six months of continuous operation, confirming sustained performance and dirt-holding capacity.
The customer reported improved operational stability and reduced maintenance burden following installation.
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