Page 438 - Practical Machinery Management for Process Plants Major Process Equipment Maintenance and Repair

416 Major Process Equipment Maintenance and Repair

Figure 8-22. Mechanical center section of expander-compressor.

Second, with the mechanical center section removed, connect the oil
supply piping to the oil drain line and flush the lubrication system for 6 to
24 hours. Use the same grade of oil that is to be used during operation,
and heat it to 150°F, or as hot as possible without endangering critical
pump clearances. Heat will decrease the viscosity of the lube oil to effect
better cleaning. Circulate the oil with both pumps operating to help heat
the oil and to increase its velocity and turbulence. On completion, dis-
card or purify the flushing oil and filter cartridges, and fill the system
with clean oil, installing new filter cartridges throughout the lube system
(for details on oil lube purification or reclamation, see Volumes 1 and 2
of this series). Third, verify that all gauges, controls, and safety devices
are properly connected, set and operative.
Fourth, check the electrical and hydraulic systems with the rotating
parts reinstalled on the unit(s), seal gas flow established,* and the oil
system connected and operating. Prepare a table similar to Table 8-10
* New seals may not leak at the specified rate but will soon break in. Meantime, mainte-
nance of a seal gas pressure above the pressure being sealed is sufficient.