OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE
Certas supplied, installed and helps maintain the lubricant system for its client
A COMPLETE OVERHAUL I
How one lubricant specialist helped transform a large UK power facility
n seeking to maintain its critical infrastructure for the national grid, a major power generation facility in the UK engaged Certas
Lubricant Solutions to supply, install, and maintain the lubricant system for its synchronous compensators. These synchronous compensators play an essential role in stabilising the grid by providing voltage and frequency balance through inertia. Maintaining optimal performance of such machines is crucial for electricity distribution stability. This case study details the
collaboration between Certas Lubricant Solutions and the power facility, exploring the challenges
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faced, solutions provided, and the successful completion of the lubricant replacement project.
INITIAL CONTACT The initial contact came through Castrol, which was approached by the power plant to procure 42KL of turbine lubricant oil, specifically Castrol Perfecto X 46. Given that Castrol does not supply directly, they recommended Certas Lubricant Solutions as their official ambassador supplier in the UK. Certas promptly established
communication with the customer, introducing the company’s services and capabilities, leading to an on-
site meeting with the plant manager and rotating plant engineers. It was revealed that the facility had recently performed a Remaining Useful Life Evaluation Routine (RULER) test, which indicated that the turbine oils used in the two synchronous compensators were nearing the end of their serviceable life. Given the criticality of the
synchronous compensators in stabilising grid frequency, the plant needed to act swiftly. The facility was scheduled for a two-week shutdown in four weeks, providing a short but manageable window to replace the lubricants. The initial request was for lubricant supply, but the opportunity
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