- Disintegrating Filter Mesh Can Trigger Severe Engine Damage.
- Backflush Filter Risks Highlight Need for Careful Maintenance.
- Gard Warns on Lube Oil Filter Failures.
Automatic backflush filters are commonly used to clean fuel and lubricating oil in today’s engine setups. Oil passes through fine wire-mesh candles that catch larger particles, letting the clean oil flow back into circulation. Unlike traditional filters, these systems employ a pressure-triggered backflush process to clean the mesh, ensuring the engine keeps running smoothly, reports gard.
Where the Risk Lies
The backflush cycle kicks in when the differential pressure hits a certain threshold. One chamber gets isolated, air is pushed through the candles to rinse them off, and then the unit goes back to standby mode. Gard has encountered several instances where the fine wire mesh broke apart during operation, allowing bits of mesh to enter the lubrication system and potentially wreak havoc on the engine.
Differential Pressure Warning Signs
If the candle mesh starts to deteriorate, holes can form, causing the oil to take the easiest route. This lowers the differential pressure and might lead to unfiltered oil flowing freely through the system. Often, there are no obvious signs before engine damage strikes, especially when there’s no counter to monitor rinsing cycles.
Nature of the Damage
Broken mesh wires can travel throughout the lubrication system, inflicting serious harm to bearings, camshafts, and crankshafts. This can result in surface wear and, in severe cases, the failure of major engine components. Repairs can be both expensive and time-consuming, with crankshaft replacements alone costing millions and leading to significant downtime.
Causes of Mesh Deterioration
Gard’s experience indicates that mesh disintegration is usually tied to rough handling, excessive rinsing cycles, or using candles beyond their intended lifespan. Each backflush cycle puts the mesh through alternating pressures, and candles can only withstand a limited number of cycles before they start to weaken.
Cleaning and Handling Challenges
Using improper cleaning techniques, like high-pressure air or rough handling, can really harm the mesh. It’s best to stick to gentle cleaning methods with the right tools, such as ultrasonic cleaners or horizontal-blow cleaning guns. After cleaning, make sure to inspect the candles closely, as tiny defects can be easily overlooked but can still lead to significant risks.
Storage and Installation Risks
To keep spare candles in top shape, they need to be stored correctly in clean, protected conditions. Mistakes during installation can also lead to failures. Candles must be properly seated in the locating plate, paying special attention to the inner circumference before securing the top plate.
Gard Recommendations
- Make sure the correct manuals and procedures for the installed filter system are readily available on board, and that the crew is well-trained.
- Set up clear guidelines for handling, cleaning, and removing damaged candles from service.
- Train the engine crew to spot even minor mesh damage.
- It might also be a good idea to install a downstream strainer or an in-line filter to catch any debris if a candle breaks down.
- Always use OEM parts and reach out to the filter manufacturer if you’re unsure.
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Source: gard
