Oil mist

Oil mist refers to oil droplets suspended in the air in the size range 1~10 μm.

Formation of Oil Mist

Oil mist may form when high pressure fuel oil, lubricating oil, hydraulic oil, or other oil is sprayed through a narrow crack, or when leaked oil connects with a high temperature surface, vaporizes, and comes in contact with low air temperature.

This happens while the fluids interact with the moving parts during machining.[1]

Smaller oil droplets than oil mist are difficult to generate under normal circumstances.

Bigger oil droplets than oil mist remain in spray form; this has the advantage of a higher ignition temperature. It sinks easily, reducing fire hazard. Oil mist inside the crankcase can cause a bigger problem.

Risks

When the concentration of oil mist increases and reaches the lower explosion limit (LEL; 50 mg/ℓ, as defined by the IACS), explosion may occur when the mist contacts surfaces of over 200 °C (392 °F) or a spark.

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) mandates that all ships with a cylinder diameter greater than 300mm or engine power over 2,250 kW must be equipped with either bearing temperature detectors or oil mist detectors.[2]

Engine Crankcase Oil Mist Detector

In regards to occupational exposures, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health have set occupational exposure limits at 5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average, with a short-term exposure limit at 10 ppm.[3]

References
  1. "What is oil mist". Retrieved April 2, 2014.
  2. "A Current List of Cruise Ship Incidents - Ship Fires". Shipdetective.com. Retrieved 2013-09-06.
  3. CDC - NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical hazards
  4. "Mexico Pipeline Explosion Kills 28". Retrieved April 2, 2014.

1 International Maritime Organization (IMO)

2 International Association of Classification Societies Ltd unified requirements concerning MACHINERY INSTALLATIONS

3 Oil Companies International Marine Forum Ship Inspection Report (SIRE) Programme/ Vessel Inspection Questionnaires for Oil Tankers, Combination Carriers, Shuttle Tankers, Chemical Tankers and Gas Carriers

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