EHC Fluid Analysis

Steam turbines are equipped with electro-hydraulic control (EHC) systems that face unique fluid challenges due to the use of synthetic, predominantly phosphate ester-based, hydraulic fluids. Ensuring the fluid is capable of meeting these challenges is not accomplished with basic oil analysis testing, which is why Eurofins TestOil’s EHC Fluid Analysis includes several specialized tests.

Phosphate esters are more susceptible to decomposition due to the presence of water, forming acids and byproducts that can lead to the formation of varnish. By monitoring acidic constituents with Acid Number and varnish precursors with Membrane Patch Colorimetry (MPC), Eurofins TestOil’s EHC Fluid Analysis provides the right data to avoid spiraling fluid degradation.

Phosphate esters also have unique fire resistance and conductance properties that can be strongly affected by other forms of contamination, therefore monitoring specific gravity and resistivity serves as an early warning system to identify potential problems affecting the fluid’s performance.