Paper 9: Lubrication at Low Temperatures and in Associated ‘Pure’ Gases

Specialized techniques have been devised to facilitate the lubrication of components between which relative movement takes place in low-temperature environments. Although fundamentally similar to atmospheric temperature systems, the lubrication process can only proceed in a controlled manner if it is freed from the influences of low temperature on materials of construction and lubricants, and from the deleterious effects of freezing impurities in the surrounding atmosphere.

In plants or distribution systems where high purity gases are involved, freedom from contamination influences the choice of lubricant and the method of application; it also imposes strict controls on the design and assembly of the machine and, in particular, the clearances during assembly, maintenance, and running.

The importance of safety limits the range of materials that may be used, and demands strict observance of the safety standards and codes of practice that have been derived from data obtained on test equipment and full-scale operations.

The monitoring of machine performance and the reliability and effectiveness of protection systems are essential if incidents are to be avoided where the working fluid is in a liquid or gaseous state.

The paper examines these problems and the practical methods used to overcome them. The references provide access to specific data.