High Velocity Oil Flushing

Reasons for a High Velocity Oil Flush

• Pre-commissioning

  Before starting up a turbine, compressor or hydraulic system, it is important to remove all traces of metal and other hard contaminants left behind during the fabrication and installation process of the lube oil piping. If not removed using a high velocity oil flush, these hard particles can destroy your equipment.

• Preventative Maintenance

  As part of a lubrication best practice, it is important to routinely perform a high velocity oil flushing service on critical pieces of equipment. A rule of thumb would be every five years on critical systems and every ten years on non-critical systems.

• Catastrophic Failure

  As part of a lubrication best practice, it is important to routinely perform a high velocity oil flushing service on critical pieces of equipment. A rule of thumb would be every five years on critical systems and every ten years on non-critical systems.

• Oil Conversion

  When converting to a different lubricating oil, it is sometimes important to use a high velocity oil flush in order to remove all traces of the old oil left behind in the piping. This prevents any non- compatibility issues. A sacrificial charge of the new oil is typically used to remove all residue from the previous product to ensure that the new oil performs as designed.

Our Oil Flushing Process

1. 1. Flush Design & Flow Path Engineering

   Our Mechanical Engineers will work with the project team to design the most effective flow path ensuring no part of the unit is left uncleaned. A properly sized flushing unit will be selected to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of the project as well as exceed any required Reynolds Number.

2. 2. Pipefitting & Jumper Installation

   All necessary piping, fittings, and spool pieces will be removed prior to the installation of all flushing equipment. All critical components not being flushing will be removed, mechanically cleaned, bagged, and tagged until reinstatement.

3. 3. Pre-Startup Leak & Pressure Test

   Prior to beginning the circulation phases of the project, IFM technicians and customer representatives will conduct a visual inspection of the entire project. This will ensure that the entire circuit is leak free and that the system is ready to safely flush.

4. 4. High Velocity Oil Flush

   IFM technicians will perform a HVOF on the system piping. Depending on the customer and/or OEM’s procedures and specifications, the following techniques may be used to dislodge debris and contaminants from the walls of the piping: Heat/Cool Cycles, Active Purging Strategy, Mechanically Knocking Piping, Reverse Flow Manifolds

5. 5. Confined Space Console Cleaning & Inspection

   A confined-space entry (if necessary) is performed in order to thoroughly clean the inside of the console. At this time, wet-vacs, squeegees, scrapers, and lint- free rags are used to remove contaminants from the inside of the reservoir. The reservoir including gaskets and suction strainers are inspected for potential signs of ingression or leakage. IFM takes before and after photos that are included in the customer’s post job report.

   Learn more about Reservoir Cleaning Services

6. 6. Verification of Pipe & Oil Cleanliness

   The ISO 4406 or NAS 1638 cleanliness requirement will be established by either the customer or OEM during the planning phase of the project. Typically the inspection test will consist of the following verification methods:

   • Pipe cleanliness – Visual inspection of mesh screens – No visible ferrous a or gritty particles
   • Oil cleanliness – 16/14/12 ISO 4406 verified by patch test

7. 7. Post Job Reporting & Documentation

   The site POC will receive nightly emails including project status, pictures, daily goals, and budgetary updates. This will be included in a comprehensive post- job report which will be available within 30 days of the completion of the project.