PB3 User Instruction
Page 27 of 39
4.2 Pump lubrication
4.2.1 Lubricating oil
Oil requires frequent replenishment at normal operating temperatures and very frequent replenishment at
elevated operating temperatures. Oil is always subject to gradual deterioration from use and contamination from
dirt and moisture. This deterioration and contamination will, in time, be harmful to the bearing and cause
premature wear. For this reason, oil should be checked for contamination and deterioration regularly.
Mineral oils oxidize and should be replaced at intervals described in the table below.
Oil replacement interval
Typical Oil Operating
Temperature
Operating
Cycle
Oil Change Interval
Notes
Ambient
Stand by
6 calendar months
-
Ambient – 71 °C
(Ambient to 160 °F)
Continuous
3 calendar months
Longer intervals between replacements may be
possible at these operating temperatures, but 3
month intervals are recommended to protect
against normal oxidation.
71 °C – 82 °C
(160 °F – 180 °F)
Continuous
3 calendar months
3 month intervals are recommended to protect
against normal oxidation, contamination, and
deterioration.
> 82 °C (> 180 °F)
Continuous
As specified by
PUMPIRAN
Continuous operation at oil temperatures above
82 °C (180 °F) requires consultation with
PUMPIRAN.
Oil specifications and characteristics
Oil Characteristics
Operating Oil Temperature
16
o
C - 38
o
C (60
o
C -100
o
F)
38
o
C - 82
o
C (101
o
F -180
o
F)
Say bolt Viscosity (SSU) 38
o
C (100
o
F)
158 Seconds
215 Seconds
Pour Point
-7
o
C (20
o
F)
-7
o
C (20
o
F)
Flash Point
204
o
C (400
o
F)
204
o
C (400
o
F)
Recommended ISO Viscosity Grade (VG) Number
32
46
4.2.2 Oil specifications
Straight mineral oils without additives are generally preferred for bearing lubrication. It should preferably be of
the turbine type and not contain free acid, chlorine, sulfur or more than a trace of free alkali. Quality mineral
oils with a minimum Viscosity Index (VI) of 95 is recommended.
In the majority of instances, a turbine oil with a VG Number of 46 (nominally equivalent to SAE 20) will meet
rolling element bearing lubrication requirements (see oil temperature).
Caution
Lubricant must be compatible with all parts requiring lubrication
