Displacement Lubricators
A displacement lubricator is basically just a closed oil tank with a small pipe connecting it to the main steam pipe which feeds the cylinders.
Steam from the main steam feed pipe enters the oil tank and condenses into water. Due to the difference in specific gravity between water and oil, the oil floats on top of the water. As the water level increases it displaces the oil which runs into the main steam pipe. The oil is then picked up by the steam flow where it is atomised and emulsified and carried to the cylinders. (Will only work with steam, not air as the oil has to float on the condenced water).
The process is continuous, and repeats until all the oil is gone.
A filler plug is fitted to permit filling with oil, and a small drain plug is fitted to the base of the oil reservoir for draining the condensed water.
A needle shut off valve is sometimes provided in the oil feed pipe to regulate oil flow, and to prevent any steam under pressure in the piping escaping though an open filler.
Edited By Paul Lousick on 16/12/2018 11:02:53