Overview
A major refining corporation in Baton Rouge, Louisiana was dealing with steadily climbing bearing temperatures on a centrifugal compressor over the course of two months — peaking at 225°F with spikes nearing 250°F and threatening a machine shutdown. Unusually, oil analysis showed no signs of degradation, making the cause difficult to pinpoint. The Mobil™ engineering team dug deeper and identified a distinct sawtooth temperature pattern — a telltale sign of hot varnish. They prescribed Mobil™ Solvancer® oil-soluble cleaner at a 7.5% concentration in the system reservoir. Within just two days, bearing temperatures dropped 30°F and stabilized, keeping the machinery running and production uninterrupted. The result: $43,490 in potential annual savings with no shutdown required.
Problem
A major refining corporation requested assistance in troubleshooting an issue with rising bearing temperatures. Temperature trends displayed a steady increase over the course of about two months. At peak, base running temperatures were around 225°F, with short duration temperature spikes approaching 250°F. Used oil analysis showed no signs of degradation or varnish potential. The refinery was facing machine shutdown if bearing temperatures climbed further and reached out to the Mobil™ engineering team for troubleshooting strategies.
Solution
The Mobil™ engineering team evaluated bearing temperature trends. They demonstrated a very distinct sawtooth pattern indicative of hot varnish. The inboard and outboard bearing also showed variations in operating temperature, which further supported the possibility of varnish formation. Mobil™ engineers recommended Mobil™ Solvancer®, oil-soluble cleaner, as a possible solution. Mobil™ Solvancer®, oil-soluble cleaner, is capable of quickly dissolving deposits and varnish which helps maintain cleanliness of critical bearings and seals. With guidance from Mobil™ engineers, Mobil™ Solvancer®, oil-soluble cleaner, was added to the system reservoir at a concentration of 7.5%. Bearing temperatures were monitored for signs of relief. After two days of runtime, bearing temperatures dropped 30°F and remained stable.
Results
Through quick action and sound guidance from the Mobil™ engineering team, the application of Mobil™ Solvancer®, oil-soluble cleaner, provided tremendous benefit to the facility and resulted in $43K* of annual savings. Mobil™ Solvancer®, oil-soluble cleaner, enabled an immediate solution to effectively address bearing temperature escalation, while keeping the machinery operational to maximize production.
Potential Annual Savings $43,490 USD* — Revenue Improvement
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*This Proof of Performance is based on the experience of a single customer. Actual results can vary depending upon the type of equipment used and its maintenance, operating conditions and environment, and any prior lubricant used. *Visit mobil.com to learn how certain Mobil-branded lubricants may provide benefits to help reduce environmental impact. Actual benefits depend upon product, operating conditions and application. Copyright © 2024 ExxonMobil. All trademarks used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved. ©2026 Fluitec. Fluitec, DECON and Solvancer are registered trade-marks of Fluitec NV or one of its subsidies. Other trademarks shown are property of their respective owners.
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