Before starting a turbine, what aspect of the lube oil system must be checked?

Before starting a turbine, checking the cleanliness of the oil is essential. Clean lube oil is critical for the proper functioning of any machinery, including turbines, as it ensures effective lubrication and prevents wear and tear on moving parts. Contaminants in the oil, such as dirt, metal shavings, or moisture, can lead to increased friction and abrasion, potentially causing damage to the turbine components. Maintaining the cleanliness of the lube oil helps to optimize performance, enhance the lifespan of the equipment, and reduce the risk of operational failures.

While aspects like capacity, color, and temperature may also be important, they do not directly address the immediate concerns related to lubrication efficiency and protection against mechanical wear, making the cleanliness of the oil the priority check before turbine operation.