What is the minimum allowable bearing oil pressure for MFW lube oil basket strainers?

The minimum allowable bearing oil pressure for Main FeedWater (MFW) lube oil basket strainers is set at 4.0 psig. This pressure is crucial for maintaining adequate lubrication and ensuring proper functioning of the bearings.

At this pressure, there is sufficient oil flow to dissipate heat, reduce friction, and prevent wear on the bearings. Operating below this pressure may lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in increased thermal and mechanical stress on the bearings. This can ultimately lead to premature failure and potentially catastrophic breakdowns in equipment, which can disrupt continuous operations and lead to costly repairs.

Thus, maintaining a minimum pressure of 4.0 psig is critical for the safety and reliability of MFW systems and the overall operation of auxiliary equipment.