Industrial Oil Moisture Sensor AFO

The presence of water in oil can cause significant damage to machinery and components. Even with a water content only slightly above the oil saturation limit, the lifespan of components can be significantly reduced. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain the water content below the oil saturation limit.
Air humidity in the environment can absorb water, which is then dissolved in the oil until the oil saturation limit is reached. As long as this limit is not reached, the oil remains clear. With changes in operating temperature and reaching the saturation limit, this mixture can either lead to an emulsion (for example, when the oil's water separation capability is poor) or to free water (for example, when the oil's water separation capability is good). If the mixture forms an emulsion, the oil becomes cloudy. If the water is released, a two-phase oil-water mixture is present.
The oil saturation limit depends on various factors, including the operating temperature. Some oils can absorb more water than others. However, the water separation capability of oils decreases during operation, leading to the formation of water-oil emulsions. The oil circulation system should be designed to separate water as efficiently as possible.

The presence of water in oil can have various disadvantages and negative impacts:

Reduced Lubrication: Water in oil can impair the lubricating properties, leading to increased wear on machine components. This can result in premature wear of bearings, gears, and other moving parts.

Corrosion: Water promotes the corrosion of metallic components in machines and engines. Corrosion can cause structural damage and material failure, reducing the equipment's lifespan.

Oxidation: Water can accelerate the oxidation of oil, resulting in a decline in oil quality. Oxidized oil may lose its lubricity and overall performance.

Formation of Deposits: Water ingress can lead to the formation of deposits, especially in high-temperature areas. Deposits can compromise the efficiency of engines and hydraulic systems.

Reduction in Electrical Insulation Capability: In applications such as electricity generation, water in insulating oil can compromise electrical insulation, leading to short circuits or other electrical issues.

Deteriorated Filtration Performance: Water can negatively impact filter performance by promoting the formation of emulsions and causing filter clogging.

Bacteria and Fungus Growth: Water provides a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus growth. This can lead to biological contamination of the oil, causing additional issues.

Increased Operating Costs: The problems associated with water in oil, as mentioned, can result in heightened maintenance requirements, increased operating costs, and potentially downtime.

Therefore, monitoring and controlling the water content in oil are crucial for maintaining the performance and lifespan of machines and systems.

In certain industrial applications, the presence of water in oil may be desired, although these cases are specific and not the norm. Here are some examples where water in oil may be intentional:

Emulsion Formation in Metalworking: In metalworking, especially in machining processes, water can be intentionally used as an emulsifier. Water-oil emulsions can enhance cooling performance and reduce tool wear.

Hydraulic Fluids with Water Content: In specific hydraulic applications, hydraulic fluids may contain water to achieve specific properties such as improved pressure transmission or enhanced lubrication.

Cooling in Certain Transformers: In some electrical transformers, water is used as a coolant. However, this is a specialized application, and the amount of water is carefully controlled.
It's important to note that these cases are specific to certain applications and industries. In most industrial contexts, the presence of water in oil is undesirable.