The current, standard oil analysis method involves observing only the lubrication qualities of unused oil and then compares these results with a data sheet. The results are based on:

• Water content
• Particle counting
• Viscosity at 40°C

We pointed out in our latest expert advice that Shell is going to discontinue the production of the Clavus 68 and G 68. Shell sold the production lines to the German company Fuchs, which means that the Shell 68 and G 68 will no longer be available for distribution. Shell now recommends the Clavus S (2V) and Clavus AB (4V) oils as alternatives.

Have you heard that Shell is reducing its selection of refrigeration oils and Shell Clavus 68 will be no longer available? In the past, Shell has offered eight types of refrigeration oils, but now the selection will be reduced to only three products.

Shell Clavus Oil S 68 was specifically designed to meet the demands of rotary screw compressors used in commercial ammonia refrigeration systems.

There are many versions of Variable Speed Drive (VSD) compressors on the market. Some seem similar, yet vary significantly in price.

A customer asked me recently, "Can you point out the differences between the price levels and explain how the extra investment brings extra value?"

Over the last four years, RM Support has examined over 100 broken shaft seals. The majority of them were damaged by thermal or chemical attack as a result of overheating. Read about this research here. 

The lifespan of a shaft seal is also much shorter now than in years past. In the 1980s and early 90s a mechanical shaft seal could serve from five up to ten years. Today, they last only one year. Keep in mind that the design of a shaft seal did not change at all over that time.