Viscosity calculation for reliable gas compressor operation

A production standstill, simply because of a wrong lubricating oil? Not at all impossible. The viscosity of the gas compressor oils chosen is often too low. In other cases, compressor operators are not sufficiently aware of the many ways in which oils and gas components may react with one another. This may cause severe compressor damage and even bring a whole plant to a standstill. The new "Klüber Summit Gas Compressor Simulation Program" now helps to avoid such consequences.

Hydrocarbon gases tend to dissolve in lubricating oils to a certain extent, and hence reduce their viscosity. Furthermore, hydrocarbons with a higher molecular weight can condense even at relatively low pressure, which leads to dilution of the oil. The drop in viscosity can be determined in advance, however. An essential element in this context is an analysis of the gas to be compressed. For this purpose, the specialists at Klüber Lubrication enter the types of gas components and the operating conditions in the simulation program, which then computes the dilution of the oil by the gas and subsequently compares the results with those of actual applications. The resulting viscosity drop is entered in a viscosity-temperature diagram. Now the right viscosity can be selected to match the recommendations by the compressor manufacturer.

This technically sound viscosity selection makes for more reliable compressor operation combined with lower lubricant consumption. Even unexpected variations in the composition of the gas can be taken into account. The simulation results may also help compressor manufacturers to assist their customers in oil selection. Furthermore, they will no longer have to deal with complaints that are due to a wrong choice of oils. Klüber Lubrication will be pleased to assist you with further information. Just contact us.