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Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ page, where you can find answers to the most commonly asked
Air-Lock
BOWL
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hub
pod
SIGHT GLASS
OTHER PRODUCTS
GENERAL FAQ'S
1. Features
What is air-lock?
Air-Lock protects oil drums against contaminant ingression during storage. Air-Lock's patented design prevents contamination by increasing the headspace air pressure which acts as a barrier against contaminants. Air-Lock also features a yellow fluorescent indicator to indicate a good seal and that pressure is maintained.
2. Specs
What size are the threads on the Air-lock sight glass?
The male threads on the Air-Lock sight glass are 2 inches NPT, which is the typical thread found on the bung of a 55 gallon oil drum.
What materials is airlock made of?
The Air-Lock sight glass is made of tritan®, the same robust and durable material used in all of Luneta's sight glasses. The internal assembly and relief valve are made of PA6 nylon. All O-rings and diaphragm are made of Viton. All springs are made of 302 stainless steel and the screws are made of 18-8 stainless steel. The Schrader valve is brass and the valve cap is aluminum.
At what pressure does the relief valve open?
The opening pressure of the relief valve is 4 psi. The resealing pressure is around 3 psi.
What is the recommended PSI for Air-lock?
The recommended PSI for Air-Lock is 2.5-3.0 psi.
What type of valve is used?
Air-Lock uses a brass schrader valve to add air into the drum.
3. Installation
can air-lock be re-used?
Yes! Air-lock can be re-used as long as it is in good condition.
Do the threads require teflon tape?
Thread sealing tape or paste is not recommended as it may contaminate fluid in the barrel. Air-Lock is fitted with an internal O-ring to ensure a good seal.
What are the installation steps?
See the insert card included with your AIr-Lock for installation steps. If you have any questions about installation, please reach out to our customer service.
Where do I install Air-lock?
Air-Lock is designed to be installed in the 2 inch bong hole of a 55 gallon oil drum.
What type of drums can airlock be installed on?
Air-Lock is designed for a 55 gallon oil drum, but can be installed on any drum in good condition that can hold pressure and has a 2 inch bung hole.
What about the 3/4 inch bung hole on the drum lid?
Ensure the existing 3/4 inch bung plug is in good working order and is sealed properly. The plug or plug seal must be replaced if it is damaged or missing.
What tools are required?
A wrench and an air compressor with an air chuck are required to install Air-Lock.
What size wrench do I need?
Air-Lock can be tightened by hand, but a wrench may be required to ensure a good seal. The wrench should grab the hex feature on the sight glass. Do not use the wrench on the faces with the relief valve or the Schrader valve. Do not use the Schrader valve as leverage. Do not use a strapping wrench.
What are the torque settings?
No more than 12 foot pounds of torque is required. Do not use the Schrader valve as leverage.
4. Applications
Can I use nitrogen gas with air-lock?
Yes!
Can I use a desiccant breather in tandem with air-lock?
No.
Can I use an oil pump or filter cart in tandem with air-lock?
No.
Can air-lock be used outside?
Yes! Airlock is made of the same robust and durable Tritan material used in all of Luneta's sight glasses. Tritan® has UV stabilizers that protect against sun exposure. Tritan can withstand temperatures from 200°F to -40°F.
Can air-lock be installed on horizontally stored drums?
No. In this configuration, fluid can contact Air-Lock and prevent it from working properly.
Can air-lock be installed on drums during transportation?
No. Movement can cause oil to splash and rise into Air-Lock and prevent it from working properly. Changes in altitude also affect atmospheric pressure, which prevents Air-Lock from working properly.
How do I clean air-lock?
You can use any cleaner compatible with Tritan® or Viton®. DO NOT use high pressure water.
What type of oils and chemicals is air-lock compatible with?
You can store any oil or chemical compatible with Tritan and Viton.
COMING SOON!
COMING SOON!
COMING SOON!
1. Features
WHAT is a condition monitoring pod (cmp)?
The CMP is a multi-parameter oil condition monitoring device for your machine's oil level port. It can detect oil levels, debris, air, moisture, oil degradation, and corrosion. Its convenient built-in sampling valve also allows for live zone sampling on demand. The Condition Monitoring Pod is also known as the CMP or the Pod for short.
2. Specs
What machine port hole diameters can be used with the CMP?
The CMP is currently designed for the following port sizes. You may use additional bushings to expand the thread diameter but NOT reduce it. Reducing the diameter will cause errors in oil level measurement.
NPT models are available in 1/2", 3/4", 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2", 2”.
BSPP models are available in 1/2", 3/4", 1”, 1-¼”, 1-½”, 2”.
Metric models are available in M20x1.5, M22x1.5, M24x1.5, M26x1.5, M27x1.5, M30x2.0, M33x1.5, M33x2.0, M36x1.5, M42x1.5, M42x2.0,
WHat material is used in the o-ring?
Luneta uses Viton® for all O-rings.
WHAT TYPE OF Sampling Valve does the CMP USE?
The sampling valve is a standard Minimess® fitting. Minimess sampling valves have M16x2 threads for coupling with sampling probe and vacuum pump. See our Sampling Kits for more information about sampling.
Is there a High-flow version available?
Not yet! Though we have one in the works. Subscribe to our emails to learn more about all of our exciting upcoming launches. If you require a High-Flow option, the Hub may be a better choice for you.
Is the pilot tube available in longer lengths?
Yes. Luneta can provide pilot tubes up to 18" in length.
WHy can't I purchase a pod that is smaller than 1/2" diameter?
The Thread Reducer must be 1/2" or greater to fit the Pilot Tube and provide enough room for proper oil turnover inside the sight glass.
3. Installation
DO THE THREADS ON THE CMP THREAD REDUCER REQUIRE TEFLON® TAPE?
Yes. Luneta recommends Teflon tape or any thread-sealing paste or dope for metal-on-metal threads.
DO THE THREADS ON THE CMP LOCKNUT REQUIRE TEFLON TAPE?
No. The Locknut only holds the Sight Glass in place, it does not seal.
DO THE THREADS ON THE CMP INDICATORS REQUIRE TEFLON TAPE?
No. The indicators have an O-ring and pipe threads for sealing.
How far below the oil level should the tip of the pilot tube be located?
During standard operating conditions, the tip of the Pilot Tube should never rise above the oil level. If the level is unknown, it is best to bend the Pilot Tube as far down as possible without interfering with internal machine components, touching the casing walls, or hindering installation.
WHERE ON THE EQUIPMENT SHOULD I INSTALL THE CMP?
The Luneta Pod should be installed at the oil level. There are special use cases, but our support team recommends them on a case-by-case basis.
Does the sampling valve have to be installed pointing up?
No. The sampling valve may be installed in whatever orientation makes the most sense for your operation. It can dispense oil no matter the direction it points.
Can i install the cmp without lowering the oil level in my sump first?
Yes. It is possible to install the CMP without lowering the oil level of the machine, however this is not advised to the large amount of oil that may be lost and the associated hazards.
What is the purpose of the two gaskets that come with the pod?
The gaskets seal the Pod Thread Reducer against the Pod Body. A second gasket is sometimes used to adjust the orientation of the Sampling Valve, but it is not recommended.
4. Application
WHAT IS THE LOCKNUT FOR?
The Locknut secures the Sight Glass against the Pod Body. It can be loosened to rotate the Sight Glass during oil inspection, but it should always be retightened to prevent the Sight Glass from falling out.
Does the equipment need to be shut down to take a sample?
No. In fact, we recommend sampling while the machine is running to get the best picture of the condition of the oil that is actively making contact with the gears.
Does the equipment need to be drained to take out the indicators for viewing?
No. Luneta's patented design allows you to rotate the sight glass to inspect the Indicators. They can also be removed for cleaning. Rotating the sight glass lifts the indicators out of the oil, making them more visible and easier to remove with little oil loss.
Will a magnet at the oil level be able to pick up ferrous wear particles?
Yes! Even though ferrous particles are more likely to sink than float, testing of the CMP has proven that the effects of both oil viscosity and turbulence will suspend wear particles so that they can be easily captured and viewed by the CMP's magnetic plug.
How often should i inspect oil conditions through the cmp?
We advise daily inspections of the CMP for early detection of problems with the oil and machine.
How often do i need to clean the sight glass?
The CMP should be cleaned whenever the Magnetic Plug and Corrosion Indicator cannot be seen through the Sight Glass's headspace.
Is the oil in the CMP representative of the oil in the machine?
Yes! Oil level observations are an excellent way to inspect for foaming, oil degradation, emulsified water, entrained air, and wear debris. The CMP also includes a sample valve with a pilot tube. This Pilot Tube can be placed deep within your machine below the oil level for live zone sampling.
HOw does the CMP detect varnish?
The CMP comes with a Steel Corrosion Indicator. An optional copper indicator is also available for purchase. If varnish is observed on the Corrosion Indicator through the Sight Glass, this indicates a current or potential varnish problem. Varnish on the Indicator = Varnish in your machine.
Can the cmp be used with a pressurized system?
No. Only low-pressure applications are recommended for the CMP.
Can the cmp be used in direct sunlight?
Yes! The CMP can be exposed to direct sunlight. The CMP sight glass has UV stabilizers that prevent it from yellowing or cracking due to sunlight exposure.
Can the cmp be cleaned with high pressure washing?
Yes! The CMP can be pressure washed; however it is not advised to spray the CMP at close range.
Can the cmp be cleaned with common detergents and other chemicals used in high pressure washing?
We recommend mild detergent and warm water. Before using other cleaning chemicals, please check their compatibility with Tritan, Viton, anodized aluminum, zinc-plated steel, and stainless steel.
Will the CMP leak if the oil sump is overfilled and causes the sight glass to completely fill with oil?
The CMP will not leak in normal use if filled above the oil level. However, it is not recommended that this be standard operating practice. This is also dependent on the tightness of the CMP threads and use of thread sealer.
Will the CMP melt if the oil gets very hot?
Oil temperatures should not exceed 200°F. Any temperature above this could cause the sight glass to deform, leak, and disengage from the Pod Body.
Is the cmp compatible with synthetic lubricants such as polyalphaolefins (pao) and phosphate esters?
The materials used in the CMP are compatible with mineral oils and most synthetic lubricants (e.g. PAO). Certain synthetics, such as phosphate esters, may exhibit marginal incompatibility. When in doubt it is recommended that compatibility be confirmed by contacting the lubricant supplier or performing compatibility tests in the laboratory.
Are the threaded ports on the cmp potential contaminant entry points?
Early detection commands a far higher premium than minor and temporary oil exposure to atmospheric contaminants. The only time the magnet or indicator needs to be removed is when a genuine issue has been observed as viewed through the sealed Sight Glass. In our experience, 95%+ of the magnet and corrosion indicator inspections can be done without exposing the oil to the atmosphere.
why do I need corrosion indicators?
The Corrosion Indicators are effective for identifying corrosive conditions inside your machine. This enables corrective action to be taken before irreparable damage occurs to the machine.
Corrosive conditions can exist due to one or more of the following:
1.) The depletion of the oil’s anti-corrosion agents due to oil degradation
2.) The presence of corrosive organic acids due to oxidation of the oil
3.) The presence of acids, water, salt, and bacteria from the environment.
Corrosive conditions can damage machine surfaces, including steel and cupric metals like copper, brass, and bronze. When this happens, there is no easy way to determine the onset of corrosion within your machine, which risks complete failure.
HOW DO THE CORROSION INDICATORS WORK?
The Indicators are exposed to the oil and the air above the oil, which makes them prime targets for corrosion. They are also made of metal alloys that are vulnerable to corrosion. If there are corrosive conditions inside your machine, the indicators will provide an early indication of this simply by looking at them through the Pod Sight Glass. Signs of corrosion include discoloration, speckling, flaking, and material loss.
WHEN WOULD I CHOOSE A STEEL OVER A COPPER CORROSION INDICATORS?
The Steel Indicator is the most common because most machines are made of steel. Consequently, it is standard and ships with every Pod by default.
The Copper Corrosion Indicator is recommended when the composition of your machinery is more similar to copper than the standard steel indicator.
Do you provide oil analysis?
No. Please reach out to our support team to receive a recommendation for oil analysis services.
COMING SOON!
COMING SOON!
What is Tritan?
Tritan is the amazing polymer used to make all of Luneta’s Sight Glasses. It is an optically clear, extremely durable, and stain-resistant material initially formulated for the food and beverage industry. It’s been smashed with sledgehammers, microwaved with tomato sauce, and frozen in ice with amazing results.
What are the recommended operating temperatures for Tritan?
The recommended operating temperatures for Tritan are -40ºF to 200ºF (-40ºC to 93ºC)
Is tritan outdoor compatible?
Yes! Tritan contains UV stabilizers to protect it against long-term sun exposure.
What oils are compatible with Tritan?
Tritan is resistant to almost all synthetic and mineral oils, especially those compatible with PMMA (Acrylic). For a more detailed compatibility chart, see this link.
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