8.04
Lubricants
TI008G0001
Safety Precautions
There is a latent risk of fire in almost all compressed air systems and ISO 5388 Standard explains the
reasons.
In fact, in compressed air systems both oxygen and oil are always present and are combustible.
Should for any reason oil vapours form, these could burn in presence of a flame; an ignition source may
start a fire in case of use of excessive or unsuitable oil, or when neglecting maintenance.
Faulty maintenance has been mentioned, because a dirty radiator may cause a temperature rise, often
quickly, which leads to oil damage and to the creation of deposits.
Such processes are accelerated if unsuitable oil is used.
Based on experience, fires are almost never caused by the fact that the oil self-ignition temperature is
reached (340-400 °C).
Usually the cause is that the oil, while decomposing, creates carbon residues that when in contact with
air and high temperature, continue to oxidize and, under special conditions, may ignite. So it is essential
to use suitable lubricants and carry out correct maintenance.
WARNING !!!
It is opportune that to prevent the risk of fires the best attention is given to the
oil choice and to execution of all maintenance operations, and specifically:
- carry out regular and complete oil changes;
- ascertain that the coolling system is always efficient, with often checks to the oil temperature;
- verify that protecting devices installed are always in perfect working order;
- keep the oil consumption under control;
- take care of the machine cleaning.
Storage and treatment of oils
Usually lubricant containers are built so as to prevent any contamination.
When the user receives the lubricant, it is under his responsibility to avoid damages or pollution to the
same.
The lubricant may get damaged due to:
- dust and dirt;
- condensate, mainly due to absorbing humidity from the air;
- extreme temperatures;
- mixing with other oil types.
Please note that dirt in the oil reduces its efficiency and causes wear of those parts it comes into contact
with, therefore there is the need to increase maintenance.
Instead, condensate cancels the effect of some additives, often present in very limited quantities.
Oil containers should be stored in protected rooms, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures.
WARNING !!!
Absolutely avoid the mixing of oils of a different grade and quality .
Although looking alike, they could not be compatible.
Also beware of oil leaks, not only being a waste, but also polluting, causing falls
or injuries to people and also fires.
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