How is water detected in fuel oil? In lube oil? How it affected? What effect would water in
fuel have on engines?
fuel have on engines?
If a sample of oil in a test tube is heated any water drops in the sample will cause a crackling
noise, and can cause the formation of steam bubbles. A simple settling would be sufficient to
detect large quantities of water in the oil. Also a water detection paste can be used changing
color when there is no water present and changing color when there is water present. Some fuel
reject water easily, others retain it, and have a cloudy appearance for an extended period after
being mixed with water. Some fuels contain as little as .01 percent of water will appear cloudy.
When lube oil is contaminated by water it turns cloudy or a milky color. This cuts down
considerably on the efficiency of the lubricating oil. It also causes parts of the engine to rust and
moving parts to stick. Water is an undesirably contaminant because apart from the fact that it is
not a good lubricant it may combine with oil in tank to form of an emulsion which by adhering to
cooling surfaces may reduce their efficiency. The effect of water on a diesel engine are uneven
engine operations. When water gets into the fuel lines it cause the engine to shut down.
Another problem with water in fuel is it could cause pumps and injectors to stick. Water in fuel
causes filter stoppage. Needed for bacteria to grow.
