Testimonials
North American Hydro improved turbine operation using Monolec® R & O Compressor / Turbine Oil (6403).
key takeaways
Challenge
Inconsistent turbine operation was caused by the breakdown of commercial grade oil, leading to sludge and emulsification of the lubricant.
LE solution
Monolec® R & O Compressor / Turbine Oil (6403) is recommended by Greg Klang for its excellent oxidation resistance, water separation, corrosion protection, longevity, and non-foaming properties.
Results
North American Hydro, after testing a commercial turbine oil, found that Monolec 6403 resulted in less than half the wear compared to G.E. turbines over ten years, leading to its exclusive use and further testing of LE products for improved lubrication and efficiency.
Anyone who operates equipment will soon realize better lubrication, cooler operating temperatures, less friction, and longer oil life using LE products.
- Rick Craner, Maintenance Manager
Customer Profile
North American Hydro is a hydroelectric company located in Alpena, Michigan. They own and operate four hydroelectric dams and two water storage dams in the Thunder Bay River Basin. They have been an LE customer since 1991.
Application
North American Hydro use nine turbines manufactured by G.E. Lufell, Wellman, Seavor and Morgan for power generation.
Challenge
The turbines were giving inconsistent operation. The commercial grade oil was breaking down and they were experiencing some sludge and emulsification of the lubricant.
LE Solution
Greg Klang, LE lubrication consultant, recommended Monolec® R & O Compressor / Turbine Oil (6403), which offers excellent oxidation resistance, separates readily from water, protects against corrosive wear and is extremely long lasting and non-foaming in service.
Results
Lubrication Engineers was used exclusively since 1991 at North American Hydro. In 1998 they elected to test a commercial grade turbine oil.
A test was started with the other product installed in Unit 1, which runs intermittently. After eight years, Xamine® was run on all units. Unit 3 runs continuously on Monolec 6403 and after ten years, showed less than half the wear as the G.E. turbines.
Reservoir for Monolec 6403 to main turbine bearings competitive product with eight years run time. All test units were converted back to Monolec 6403 and North American Hydro is now testing LE in other locations.
Rick Craner, maintenance manager, stated, “Anyone who operates equipment will soon realize better lubrication, cooler operating temperatures, less friction, and longer oil life using LE products.”