The power generation systems in the electricity industry are primarily divided into two categories: thermal power generation and hydropower generation. Thermal power generation relies mainly on fixed gas turbines, including steam turbines (inclusive of nuclear power) and gas turbine generator sets. Their lubrication requirements are quite similar, yet there are significant differences. For instance, the lubricating oil in gas turbines can experience very high temperatures due to "local hot spots," while the contamination from moisture is relatively less.
Turbine oil, refined from paraffin-based oil, forms a film of a certain thickness within the shaft bearings and thrust bearings of turbine-generator sets. This film supports the shaft, lifting it away from the bearings, and bears the full load pressure of the bearings, thus preventing dry friction. In this way, turbine oil acts as a lubricant. Due to the lubrication provided by the turbine oil within the bearings, the coefficient of friction is very low, typically ranging from 0.0001 to 0.005. For a given turbine-generator set with sliding bearings, the viscosity of the turbine oil is generally determined by the machine's speed and bearing load, and cannot be changed arbitrarily.
Therefore, the lubricating function of turbine oil mainly manifests as: maintaining the oil viscosity within a certain range of operating temperature changes and under the condition of qualified oil quality; forming a thin oil film with a certain thickness between the bearing and shaft journal that can bear load pressure, to resist wear between the shaft journal and bearing and reduce friction to a minimum extent.
Share Tips for Identifying Genuine Lubricants
The current lubricant market is plagued with over 50% counterfeit and substandard motor oils, especially for small cars, making it nearly impossible to find quality oil! Fake oils sold at 2080 yuan can fetch over 100400 yuan, with many taking risks for massive profits and making a dishonest fortune, severely harming drivers' interests and leading to frequent vehicle breakdowns, leaving many drivers in despair! Fear not, with my "sharp eyes," you will be able to see the oil market clearly and distinctly.
Examine the oil product's outer packaging. Genuine products have exquisite packaging, with special markings on less noticeable areas such as the bottom of the can, the inside of the lid, and the handle; whereas counterfeit packaging tends to be rougher and the colors usually lighter, making it easily distinguishable at a glance. The product's spray code is clear on genuine items, whereas it may be unclear on fakes.
Observe the oil color. New Sheng oil is pale yellow, the second distinguishing feature. It is crystal clear and transparent, free of impurities, suspended particles, and sediment; used waste engine oil becomes shiny black, like a mirror, with the same viscosity as new oil.
The oil has no distinct odor, only a faint fragrance. When a counterfeit oil can is opened, it typically emits a gasoline or diesel smell, detectable after the third sniff. Oils that are soothing to the senses but have an unusual odor are either deteriorated or low-quality, and should never be used. Genuine oil tends to have a more accurate weight, while counterfeit oil cans often show significant variations in weight.
If possible, pour half a bottle of engine oil into a transparent container, seal the lid, and then freeze it. Tie multiple sandwich bags tightly around the container to prevent oil leakage and contamination of the refrigerator. Engine oil is toxic, so place it in the freezer for several hours. It must still be able to flow at -20 degrees Celsius; if it freezes, it is counterfeit oil.
