The core function of the oil cooler of the air separation unit is to reduce the lubricating oil temperature through heat exchange, and ensure the safe, stable and efficient operation of the core power equipment of the air separation system (such as air compressor and expander), which can be divided into three core functions:
Maintain the stability of oil performance: the compressor and other equipment will generate a lot of heat during operation, which will lead to the increase of lubricating oil temperature. The oil cooler can quickly take away the heat, so as to avoid the decrease of oil viscosity and failure of lubricating performance caused by too high oil temperature. At the same time, it can prevent the too low oil temperature from affecting the oil mobility and ensure that the lubricating oil is always in the optimal working state.
Life protection of key parts: stable oil temperature can reduce friction and wear of precision parts such as bearings and rotors, avoid oil sludge and acidic substances generated by oxidation decomposition of lubricating oil due to high temperature, thus reducing risk of corrosion and clamping stagnation of parts and prolonging service life of core equipment.
Ensure efficient operation of air separation system: stable oil temperature can ensure sealing performance of compressor (clearance between sealing rotor and cavity) and avoid gas leakage due to sealing failure; At the same time, it can maintain stable working condition of equipment, indirectly guarantee gas compression and separation efficiency of air separation unit and reduce energy waste.
