When it comes to water mixing with oil or fuels, the old adage of ‘never the two shall meet’ holds firm. Water contamination is more than just a headache; it can lead to corrosive damage associated with machinery breakdown and costly repairs, as well as contributing to microbial growth in fuels through water-borne pathogens. A water sensor can help detect and prevent contamination, protecting your equipment and reducing downtime.
While you can spend an inordinate amount of time monitoring and taking fuel samples, prevention is always better than a cure. That’s where water sensors come in; they are like a security alarm for your machinery and play a critical role in protecting overall system performance.
Water sensors work in conjunction with fuel/water separators, otherwise referred to as purification systems, which provide state-of-the-art oil clarification (removing 100% of free water and 95% of contaminants) using centrifuge technology to extend the life of machinery, minimise premature component failure, reduce oxidation, and cut back on maintenance or total engine replacement costs.
All purification units come with water detection capabilities when optional sensors are installed. The primary function of a water sensor is to prevent oil filtration systems from becoming inundated with unexpected water, which can put undue strain on the filter element and ultimately compromise the process of filtration if the water content rises beyond saturation point.
Who knew water could be so damaging? When oil reaches a point of saturation in oil and can no longer dissolve, it becomes emulsified, compromising the lubricity of the oil, and increasing machinery friction. Secondly, water acerates oil oxidation by reacting with the molecular structures of the lubricants, eventually causing the hydrogen embrittlement of metals (corrosion) and rust. Having a water sensor installed on your oil centrifuge allows operators to locate the water source and take steps to release the water sump before lasting damage occurs. Once the water has been removed, the sensor automatically resets.
Water sensors are commonly used in the following industries and contexts:
- Aviation and aerospace fuel monitoring
- Mineral dewatering
- Waste oil disposal
- Renewable energy
- Nuclear power
- Automotive production machinery
- Agricultural processing
- Industrial manufacturing
- Wastewater management
- Biofuel
- Sludge dewatering
The latest generation of industrial water sensors, such as those produced by Dieselcraft, allows for the rapid detection of water and moisture build-up, alerting operators to abnormalities via an indicator light and audible alarm. Dieselcraft sensors have self-grounding stainless steel probes that provide accurate readings based on voltage direct current (12/24V DC) and have a maximum voltage of 10 volts, making them fire-resistant. DieselCraft water sensors are, therefore, particularly well-suited to industrial settings by complying with highly regulated safety standards.
Installing a water sensor will not only provide your purification system with longevity in maintaining maintain the highest quality fuel but will also serve as your first line of defence against machinery degradation. You need the latest in water sensor technology if you want to improve production efficiency and protect your company’s machinery investment. To self-clean your contaminated oil, please refer to our continuous self-cleaning centrifuges.
Contact one of our friendly team members at Inferfil today to discuss the benefits of installing a Dieselcraft water sensor or learn more about our state-of-the-art product offerings in industrial filtration systems.
Read Also:
CONSEQUENCES OF NOT PROPERLY TREATING YOUR WASTEWATER
UNDERSTANDING MAGNETIC COOLANT FILTRATION