Lube-Tech


the course of my research, I found that Micropatch analysis can detect various types and different stages of varnish formation, contamination not detected through standard testing and wear that was a result. Figure 2 is a Micropatch which captured varnish, carbon, oxides and contamination. Figure 3, provided by DeltaXero’s customer, shows the clear glossy-like finish where we clear varnish due to Hydrolysis.


PUBLISHED BY LUBE: THE EUROPEAN LUBRICANTS INDUSTRY MAGAZINE


No.140 page 3


and this is when it is easiest to remove the varnish from the system and the ideal stage to act. Figure 4 is what I would consider the beginning stage of varnish formation.


Figure 4 Figure 2


Over time, the varnish will begin to harden and fall out of solution and adhere to the cooler surfaces of the system, such as valves, spools, heat exchangers, etc. As a result of this, a layer of the micro agglomerations of varnish will begin to harden and form a layer that coats the surfaces. This creates “hot spots” that can lead to Micro-dieseling issues if no action is taken at this stage. Figure 5 highlights the clear varnish agglomeration and carbon formed due to micro-dieseling issues.


Figure 3


Varnish Formations in a System When varnish is first beginning to form, you will see very small micro-agglomeration (at submicron size) begin to form. The varnish can have a clear-to-rose- gold sheen to it and a smooth lacquer-like finish to it. At this stage, the varnish is still soluble in the oil


28 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.169 JUNE 2022


Figure 5


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