Drop of knowledge #14

Ecol Lab – what happened in February?

1. 1. Interview: what is the Smart Ecol app and what problems does it solve? →
2. 2. Don’t trust technical sheets, or the miscibility of gear oils for wind turbines →
3. 3. Upcoming conferences we are attending →
4. 4. Element of the month →

1. Interview: what is the Smart Ecol app and what problems does it solve?

• how the Smart Ecol application can help users?
• what the oil sample registration process looks like?
• how are the devices identified?
• what is the process of implementing the application in the company?

We talk about our new Smart Ecol application and the benefits for those who order oil and sample testing at their companies on a daily basis with Catherine Paris, Manager of the Diagnostic Services Sales Office at Ecol’s Oil Analysis Laboratory.

2. Don’t trust technical sheets, or the miscibility of gear oils for wind turbines

❗ Changing the type of oil or the need for a refill in lubrication systems can pose serious operational challenges.

👉 Manufacturers often assure full compatibility of their products in technical sheets, in practice it is their actual compatibility that is crucial to the performance of the devices.

➡️ That’s why, at Ecol’s Oil Analysis Laboratory, we conducted detailed studies of the miscibility and compatibility of eight wind turbine gear oils.

You will find the results of our analysis, along with important recommendations, in an article that may prove crucial to optimizing the operation of your machinery:

4. Element of the month

Calcium (Ca, Latin: Calcium) is a silvery-white metal that belongs to the beryllium group in the periodic table. Calcium is an important component of lubricating oils, particularly in the form of additives. It has several key functions:

1. Detergents and dispersants: calcium compounds, such as calcium sulphonates, help to keep the engine clean by preventing dirt and carbon build-up.
2. 2. Neutralisation of acids: Calcium neutralises acids formed during fuel combustion, protecting metal engine parts from corrosion.
3. 3. Thickeners in lubricants: Thickeners in lubricants: Calcium can be used as a thickener, giving the grease the right consistency and lubricating properties. Calcium bearing greases are known for their excellent water resistance, making them ideal for applications in humid conditions such as in the marine industry. As a result, bearings are better protected against corrosion and wear.

One non-obvious source of calcium in oil can be dust from the lubricating system environment or water rich in calcium ions.