Turbine lube-oil systems are designed to cool bearings, flush contaminants away from rotating parts, prevent leakage of gases, provide hydrostatic lift for shafts and actuating valves in the hydraulic circuit and protect lube-system internals. Turbine oil formulations must handle large temperature fluctuations and the ingression of contaminants such as dirt and water. Monitoring in-service turbine oil condition for deterioration and degradation can significantly extend the life of both the lubricant and the turbine.
To help users understand how turbine oils deteriorate, Bureau Veritas has developed VitalPoint® – a series of four test packages for monitoring the condition of in-service turbine oils. With VitalPoint®, Bureau Veritas can show you how to implement a meaningful turbine oil analysis program to maximize service life.
Turbine Oil Analysis – The VitalPoint Difference
Total Lubricant Assessment ( TLA® )
This package covers the majority of the testing outlined in the TOQ®, in addition to determining the varnish potential, additive levels and degradation mechanisms. Each report includes customized, detailed interpretations and recommended actions.
Control Fluid Assessment ( CFA® )
The most comprehensive test package available for control fluids (fire-resistant fluids). Fire-resistant fluids can remain in service for many years with the proper maintenance.
Turbine Oil Quality ( TOQ® )
Modeled from the test recommendations in ASTM D4378 for semi-annual to annual sampling intervals.
Turbine Oil Monitoring ( TOM® )
Modeled from the test recommendations in ASTM D4378 for monthly to quarterly sampling intervals.
QSA® Complete
A testing package designed to assess the varnish potential of a turbine oil in addition to several other important oil quality parameters.
- Download a VitalPoint® information sheet PDF
- Download feature article PDF from Combined Cycle Journal
Recommended Packages & Sampling Frequency
Recommended sampling frequency is based on the type of turbine (Gas or Steam) and length of lubricant service
Gas turbine recommended sampling frequency
| Length of Service | Recommended Package |
| New Oil (Prior to installation) | TOQ® / CFA® |
| New Oil Change (Prior to installation) | TOQ® / CFA® |
| During first 6 months (every 500 hrs.) | TOQ® / CFA® |
| In-service (every 500 hours) | TOM® / QSA® |
| In-service (every 1500-2000 hrs.) | TOQ ®/ TLA® / CFA® |
Steam turbine recommended sampling frequency
| Length of Service | Recommended Package |
| New Oil (Prior to installation) | TOQ® / CFA® |
| New Oil Change (Prior to installation) | TOQ® / CFA® |
| During first 12 months operation (monthly) | TOM® / QSA® |
| During first 12 months operation (quarterly) | TOQ ®/ QSA® |
| In-service (quarterly) | TOM® / QSA® |
| In-service (annually) | TOQ® / TLA® / CFA® |
Additional Sampling Considerations
| Condition | Recommended Package |
| Evidence of Varnish | QSA® / TLA® |
| Valve Sticking | QSA® / TLA® |
| Poor Heat Exchanger Performance | QSA® / TLA® |
| Poor Water Separability | TOQ® / TLA® |
| Inefficient Performance of Water Coalescers | TOQ® / TLA® |
| Introduction of New Contamination Control Technology | QSA® / TLA® |
| Measurement of Varnish Removal | QSA® / TLA® |
| Rapid Color or Odor Change | TLA® |