Closing or Operating Water in Purifier – Function and Purpose Explained for Marine Engineers
The closing or operating water in purifier is clean hydraulic water used to lock and unlock the sliding bowl bottom of a self-cleaning fuel oil purifier. It provides the hydraulic force required for bowl closure before normal operation and for opening during desludging.
In marine fuel oil purifier systems, the correct function of operating water ensures automatic and leak-free bowl operation, forming a key part of the purifier’s hydraulic control mechanism. It works closely with the pilot valve and sealing water system to maintain stable, continuous fuel purification.
Purpose of Closing or Operating Water
The operating water performs several critical hydraulic actions inside the purifier bowl:
- Hydraulically locks the bowl bottom in position before purification starts.
- Applies pressure to keep the bowl sealed during separation.
- Releases pressure during desludging to open the bowl and discharge sludge.
- Works in coordination with the pilot or distributor valve to control timing of operations.
Working Principle of Operating Water System
Before the purifier begins separating fuel oil, the control unit sends operating water into the hydraulic chamber located below the sliding bowl bottom. This pressure moves the sliding bottom upward, closing the bowl tightly. Once locked, sealing water is introduced to establish the water ring, and fuel entry begins.
During desludging, the control signal to the pilot valve changes. It directs operating water away from the bowl, releasing the hydraulic pressure. This causes the bowl bottom to drop momentarily, allowing sludge to discharge through the sludge ports before reclosing automatically.
Types of Operating Water Flow
- Closing water: Used at the start of operation to lock the bowl bottom.
- Opening water: Used during desludging to open the bowl bottom.
Both flows are controlled by a hydraulic distributor or pilot valve, which ensures accurate timing of bowl locking and opening cycles.
Importance of Proper Operating Water Pressure
- Too low → incomplete bowl closure → leakage or oil-water mixing.
- Too high → mechanical stress on bowl components and seals.
- Correct pressure ensures tight sealing and reliable desludging cycles.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Inspect hydraulic pipelines for leaks and blockages regularly.
- Check the pilot valve for correct timing and operation.
- Use clean, filtered water to prevent scale or corrosion in hydraulic passages.
- Ensure pressure sensors and solenoids function correctly.
FAQ
Q: What happens if the operating water fails during purifier operation?
A: If operating water pressure is lost, the bowl may not close properly, causing poor separation or oil leakage. Regular maintenance of pilot valves and water supply systems prevents this issue.
Conclusion
The closing or operating water in purifier is a vital part of the marine fuel oil purification system. It enables automatic operation of the purifier bowl by providing hydraulic power for closure and desludging. Proper control and maintenance of this system ensure efficient separation, safety, and long purifier life.
Related Topics
- Fuel Oil Purifier System – Definition, Purpose, and Operation Explained
- Fuel Oil Purifier Principle – Separation Process Explained
- Function of Paring Disc in Purifier – Working Principle and Purpose
- Purpose of Sealing Water in Fuel Oil Purifier Operation
- Closing Water in Purifier – Hydraulic Operation in Self-Cleaning Bowls
- Pilot Valve in Purifier – Hydraulic Distributor Function Explained
- Self-Cleaning Purifier Bowl Components – Parts and Functions Explained
Explore the full Fuel Oil Purifier Q&A Series purifier systems and improve operational knowledge on board ships.
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