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Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ page, where you can find answers to the most commonly asked
Air-Lock
BOWL
Column
hub
pod
SIGHT GLASS
OTHER PRODUCTS
GENERAL FAQ'S
1. Features
What is Air-Lock?
Air-Lock protects oil drums against contaminant ingression during storage. Air-Lock's patented design prevents contamination by increasing the headspace air pressure which acts as a barrier against contaminants. Air-Lock also features a yellow fluorescent indicator to indicate a good seal and that pressure is maintained.
2. Specs
What size are the threads on the Air-lock sight glass?
The male threads on the Air-Lock sight glass are 2 inches NPT, which is the typical thread found on the bung of a 55 gallon oil drum.
What materials is airlock made of?
The Air-Lock sight glass is made of tritan®, the same robust and durable material used in all of Luneta's sight glasses. The internal assembly and relief valve are made of PA6 nylon. All O-rings and diaphragm are made of Viton. All springs are made of 302 stainless steel and the screws are made of 18-8 stainless steel. The Schrader valve is brass and the valve cap is aluminum.
At what pressure does the relief valve open?
The opening pressure of the relief valve is 4 psi. The resealing pressure is around 3 psi.
What is the recommended PSI for Air-lock?
The recommended PSI for Air-Lock is 2.5-3.0 psi.
What type of valve is used?
Air-Lock uses a brass schrader valve to add air into the drum.
3. Installation
can air-lock be re-used?
Yes! Air-lock can be re-used as long as it is in good condition.
Do the threads require teflon tape?
Thread sealing tape or paste is not recommended as it may contaminate fluid in the barrel. Air-Lock is fitted with an internal O-ring to ensure a good seal.
What are the installation steps?
See the insert card included with your AIr-Lock for installation steps. If you have any questions about installation, please reach out to our customer service.
Where do I install Air-lock?
Air-Lock is designed to be installed in the 2 inch bong hole of a 55 gallon oil drum.
What type of drums can airlock be installed on?
Air-Lock is designed for a 55 gallon oil drum, but can be installed on any drum in good condition that can hold pressure and has a 2 inch bung hole.
What about the 3/4 inch bung hole on the drum lid?
Ensure the existing 3/4 inch bung plug is in good working order and is sealed properly. The plug or plug seal must be replaced if it is damaged or missing.
What tools are required?
A wrench and an air compressor with an air chuck are required to install Air-Lock.
What size wrench do I need?
Air-Lock can be tightened by hand, but a wrench may be required to ensure a good seal. The wrench should grab the hex feature on the sight glass. Do not use the wrench on the faces with the relief valve or the Schrader valve. Do not use the Schrader valve as leverage. Do not use a strapping wrench.
What are the torque settings?
No more than 12 foot pounds of torque is required. Do not use the Schrader valve as leverage.
4. Applications
Can I use nitrogen gas with air-lock?
Yes! In fact, we think of Nitrogen as the platinum standard for pressurizing Air-Lock. Nitrogen is more resistant to fluctuations in temperature than regular air, making it the perfect upgrade to complement the Air-Lock system.
Don't worry, regular air provides all the protection you need from contaminants. It's the pressure that protects, not the composition of the gas.
Can I use a desiccant breather in tandem with air-lock?
No. Desiccant breathers should not be used in conjuction with an Air-Lock.
Can I use an oil pump or filter cart in tandem with air-lock?
No. Air-Lock is for storage only and should be remove when oil is being pumped out of the barrel or filtered.
Can air-lock be used outside?
Yes! Airlock is made of the same robust and durable Tritan material used in all of Luneta's sight glasses. Tritan® has UV stabilizers that protect against sun exposure. Tritan can withstand temperatures from -40°F to 200°F. (-40ºC to 93ºC)
Can air-lock be installed on horizontally stored drums?
No. In this configuration, fluid can contact Air-Lock and prevent it from working properly.
Can air-lock be installed on drums during transportation?
No. Lots of movement can cause excessive oil to splash and rise into Air-Lock and prevent it from working properly. Changes in altitude also affect atmospheric pressure, which prevents Air-Lock from working properly. It is okay to move the barrel around on a hand truck for short distances, such as moving a barrel from storage to the plant floor.
How do I clean air-lock?
You can use any cleaner compatible with Tritan® or Viton®. DO NOT use high pressure water.
What type of oils and chemicals is air-lock compatible with?
You can store any oil or chemical compatible with Tritan and Viton.
1. Features
What is the bowl?
The Luneta Bowl is a bottom sediment and water (BS&W) bowl that doubles as a Sight Glass. You can also purge and inspect your lubricant for ferrous debris at the same time.
What is the thing at the top of the drain plug?
The drain plug has a rare earth magnet mounted at the top to capture ferrous wear debris. It makes the debris easy to capture and inspect.
2. Specs
What materials are the bowl made from?
The bowl contains Tritan, brass, Viton, and zinc-plated steel.
What is the temperature range?
The Bowl can be used in systems that run from -20°F all the way up to 200°F (-20ºC to 93ºC)
IS the bowl offered in female threads?
The Bowl is only offered in male threads.
Can I add an additional bushing to make it female?
Yes. Additional bushings may be used to change the threads.
What size is the valve?
The drain valve has 1/4" NPT threads.
3. Installation
What is the thing at the top of the drain plug?
The drain plug has a rare earth magnet mounted at the top to capture ferrous wear debris. It makes the debris easy to capture and inspect.
4. Application
Where should I install the Bowl?
The Bowl should be installed at the drain level.
How long do I purge water/sludge?
Purging with the Bowl is easy. Simply press upwards on the arms of the drain valve. Push and twist and it will lock in the open position. When the Bowl has completely refilled with clean oil, press gently on the arms to turn them, and the drain will snap shut.
Can I sample from the Bowl?
We do not recommend sampling from the bowl as it will naturally collect water and other contaminants. It does not paint an accurate picture of the condition of the oil that is actively contacting your gears.
Can I use high viscosity oil with the 3/8” model?
While possible, we do not recommend using high viscosity oil in conjunction with the 3/8” model. It is possible for the oil to form a seal atop the bowl, preventing proper oil flow within the Bowl.
1. Features
What is the Column?
The Luneta Column is a sight glass designed for equipment with greater oil level fluctuations.
Are the individual components replaceable?
Yes! All Luneta products are made with replaceable component parts. It’s part of our commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
2. Specs
What material is the Column made from?
The Luneta Column is made from Tritan and the thread reducers are made from zinc plated steel.
What materials are the level rings made of?
The level rings are made of high strength Nylon.
What Does the column come with?
The Column comes with the unit itself, two level rings, a thread reducer, and the option between a breather or vent tube kit.
What is the temperature range?
The Column can be used on systems that run from -40°F all the way up to 200°F (-40ºC to 93ºC)
What lengths are available?
The Column comes in lengths from 3" all the way to 60".
Is column available in different diameters?
The Column is only available in 1” diameter.
Are both ends threaded?
Yes, both ends of the Column are threaded and feature 1" NPT male threads.
3. Installation
Where should I install it?
The column should be installed below the oil level. Ideally at or near the drain port.
At what length do I need to add support?
We recommend adding support to any column longer than 18”.
4. Application
Why should I use a silicone cover over the breather?
We recommend using a silicone cover over the breather to prevent particulate and water build-up on top. While they cannot make it through the 3 micron screen, any dust, dirt, or water that lands on top will prevent your Column from breathing properly. The silicone cap is specially made to mitigate this issue.
Are the level rings good for other applications?
Luneta's level rings are made with a very tight tolerance to prevent tampering, so generally we recommend against ordering extra sets for use with other equipment.
1. Features
What is the Hub?
The Hub is a specialized pipe fitting that turns one port into five. If you've ever needed to install multiple items (e.g. sight glass, sampling valve, quick connect, drain valve) but only have one port on your machine, the Hub is your answer. It features four lateral ports in two sizes (1" and 3/4" NPT) and one central port (1/4" NPT) designed for an included sampling valve. The Hub can also rotate every 45-degrees for optimal lateral port orientation.
2. Specs
What are the port sizes?
There are two ¾” NPT and two 1” NPT ports, on opposite sides of each other, and one ¼” NPT in the middle for the sampling valve.
Is the ½” NPT Hub available in High flow?
No. The high-flow pilot tube diameter is too large and will restrict flow into the Hub when using the ½” NPT connector.
What materials are the Hub made of?
304 Stainless and zinc-plated steel.
How many ports are there?
Five total, four lateral ports, and one in the middle.
Can I order the Hub without a valve?
Yes! Speak with a member of our sales team to place any custom orders.
How long is the pilot tube?
The Hub includes a 12-inch long pilot tube, but other lengths are available. Speak with a member of our sales team to place custom orders.
3. Installation
Where should I install it?
The Hub should be installed at the drain port or anywhere below the oil level.
4. Applications
What is the difference between High flow and Standard flow?
The high flow valve has a larger inside diameter which allows for greater sampling rates, typically three times that of the standard flow.
Can I use the same probe for Pod and Hub?
Yes, the standard flow Hub uses the same valve as the Pod, so the same probe can be used. However, the high-flow Hub uses a different probe that is incompatible with the Pod.
1. Features
WHAT is a condition monitoring pod (cmp)?
The CMP is a multi-parameter oil condition monitoring device for your machine's oil level port. It can detect oil levels, debris, air, moisture, oil degradation, and corrosion. Its convenient built-in sampling valve also allows for live zone sampling on demand. The Condition Monitoring Pod is also known as the CMP or the Pod for short.
2. Specs
What machine port hole diameters can be used with the CMP?
The CMP is currently designed for the following port sizes. You may use additional bushings to expand the thread diameter but NOT reduce it. Reducing the diameter will cause errors in oil level measurement.
NPT models are available in 1/2", 3/4", 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2", 2”.
BSPP models are available in 1/2", 3/4", 1”, 1-¼”, 1-½”, 2”.
Metric models are available in M20x1.5, M22x1.5, M24x1.5, M26x1.5, M27x1.5, M30x2.0, M33x1.5, M33x2.0, M36x1.5, M42x1.5, M42x2.0,
WHat material is used in the o-ring?
Luneta uses Viton® for all O-rings.
WHAT TYPE OF Sampling Valve does the CMP USE?
The sampling valve is a standard Minimess® fitting. Minimess sampling valves have M16x2 threads for coupling with sampling probe and vacuum pump. See our Sampling Kits for more information about sampling.
Is there a High-flow version available?
Not yet! Though we have one in the works. Subscribe to our emails to learn more about all of our exciting upcoming launches. If you require a High-Flow option, the Hub may be a better choice for you.
Is the pilot tube available in longer lengths?
Yes. Luneta can provide pilot tubes up to 18" in length.
WHy can't I purchase a pod that is smaller than 1/2" diameter?
The Thread Reducer must be 1/2" or greater to fit the Pilot Tube and provide enough room for proper oil turnover inside the sight glass.
3. Installation
DO THE THREADS ON THE CMP THREAD REDUCER REQUIRE TEFLON® TAPE?
Yes. Luneta recommends Teflon tape or any thread-sealing paste or dope for metal-on-metal threads.
DO THE THREADS ON THE CMP LOCKNUT REQUIRE TEFLON TAPE?
No. The Locknut only holds the Sight Glass in place, it does not seal.
DO THE THREADS ON THE CMP INDICATORS REQUIRE TEFLON TAPE?
No. The indicators have an O-ring and pipe threads for sealing.
How far below the oil level should the tip of the pilot tube be located?
During standard operating conditions, the tip of the Pilot Tube should never rise above the oil level. If the level is unknown, it is best to bend the Pilot Tube as far down as possible without interfering with internal machine components, touching the casing walls, or hindering installation.
WHERE ON THE EQUIPMENT SHOULD I INSTALL THE CMP?
The Luneta Pod should be installed at the oil level. There are special use cases, but our support team recommends them on a case-by-case basis.
Does the sampling valve have to be installed pointing up?
No. The sampling valve may be installed in whatever orientation makes the most sense for your operation. It can dispense oil no matter the direction it points.
Can i install the cmp without lowering the oil level in my sump first?
Yes. It is possible to install the CMP without lowering the oil level of the machine, however this is not advised to the large amount of oil that may be lost and the associated hazards.
What is the purpose of the two gaskets that come with the pod?
The gaskets seal the Pod Thread Reducer against the Pod Body. A second gasket is sometimes used to adjust the orientation of the Sampling Valve, but it is not recommended.
4. Application
WHAT IS THE LOCKNUT FOR?
The Locknut secures the Sight Glass against the Pod Body. It can be loosened to rotate the Sight Glass during oil inspection, but it should always be retightened to prevent the Sight Glass from falling out.
Does the equipment need to be shut down to take a sample?
No. In fact, we recommend sampling while the machine is running to get the best picture of the condition of the oil that is actively making contact with the gears.
Does the equipment need to be drained to take out the indicators for viewing?
No. Luneta's patented design allows you to rotate the sight glass to inspect the Indicators. They can also be removed for cleaning. Rotating the sight glass lifts the indicators out of the oil, making them more visible and easier to remove with little oil loss.
Will a magnet at the oil level be able to pick up ferrous wear particles?
Yes! Even though ferrous particles are more likely to sink than float, testing of the CMP has proven that the effects of both oil viscosity and turbulence will suspend wear particles so that they can be easily captured and viewed by the CMP's magnetic plug.
How often should i inspect oil conditions through the cmp?
We advise daily inspections of the CMP for early detection of problems with the oil and machine.
How often do i need to clean the sight glass?
The CMP should be cleaned whenever the Magnetic Plug and Corrosion Indicator cannot be seen through the Sight Glass's headspace.
Is the oil in the CMP representative of the oil in the machine?
Yes! Oil level observations are an excellent way to inspect for foaming, oil degradation, emulsified water, entrained air, and wear debris. The CMP also includes a sample valve with a pilot tube. This Pilot Tube can be placed deep within your machine below the oil level for live zone sampling.
HOw does the CMP detect varnish?
The CMP comes with a Steel Corrosion Indicator. An optional copper indicator is also available for purchase. If varnish is observed on the Corrosion Indicator through the Sight Glass, this indicates a current or potential varnish problem. Varnish on the Indicator = Varnish in your machine.
Can the cmp be used with a pressurized system?
No. Only low-pressure applications are recommended for the CMP.
Can the cmp be used in direct sunlight?
Yes! The CMP can be exposed to direct sunlight. The CMP sight glass has UV stabilizers that prevent it from yellowing or cracking due to sunlight exposure.
Can the cmp be cleaned with high pressure washing?
Yes! The CMP can be pressure washed; however it is not advised to spray the CMP at close range.
Can the cmp be cleaned with common detergents and other chemicals used in high pressure washing?
We recommend mild detergent and warm water. Before using other cleaning chemicals, please check their compatibility with Tritan, Viton, anodized aluminum, zinc-plated steel, and stainless steel.
Will the CMP leak if the oil sump is overfilled and causes the sight glass to completely fill with oil?
The CMP will not leak in normal use if filled above the oil level. However, it is not recommended that this be standard operating practice. This is also dependent on the tightness of the CMP threads and use of thread sealer.
Will the CMP melt if the oil gets very hot?
Oil temperatures should not exceed 200°F. Any temperature above this could cause the sight glass to deform, leak, and disengage from the Pod Body.
Is the cmp compatible with synthetic lubricants such as polyalphaolefins (pao) and phosphate esters?
The materials used in the CMP are compatible with mineral oils and most synthetic lubricants (e.g. PAO). Certain synthetics, such as phosphate esters, may exhibit marginal incompatibility. When in doubt it is recommended that compatibility be confirmed by contacting the lubricant supplier or performing compatibility tests in the laboratory.
Are the threaded ports on the cmp potential contaminant entry points?
Early detection commands a far higher premium than minor and temporary oil exposure to atmospheric contaminants. The only time the magnet or indicator needs to be removed is when a genuine issue has been observed as viewed through the sealed Sight Glass. In our experience, 95%+ of the magnet and corrosion indicator inspections can be done without exposing the oil to the atmosphere.
why do I need corrosion indicators?
The Corrosion Indicators are effective for identifying corrosive conditions inside your machine. This enables corrective action to be taken before irreparable damage occurs to the machine.
Corrosive conditions can exist due to one or more of the following:
1.) The depletion of the oil’s anti-corrosion agents due to oil degradation
2.) The presence of corrosive organic acids due to oxidation of the oil
3.) The presence of acids, water, salt, and bacteria from the environment.
Corrosive conditions can damage machine surfaces, including steel and cupric metals like copper, brass, and bronze. When this happens, there is no easy way to determine the onset of corrosion within your machine, which risks complete failure.
HOW DO THE CORROSION INDICATORS WORK?
The Indicators are exposed to the oil and the air above the oil, which makes them prime targets for corrosion. They are also made of metal alloys that are vulnerable to corrosion. If there are corrosive conditions inside your machine, the indicators will provide an early indication of this simply by looking at them through the Pod Sight Glass. Signs of corrosion include discoloration, speckling, flaking, and material loss.
WHEN WOULD I CHOOSE A STEEL OVER A COPPER CORROSION INDICATORS?
The Steel Indicator is the most common because most machines are made of steel. Consequently, it is standard and ships with every Pod by default.
The Copper Corrosion Indicator is recommended when the composition of your machinery is more similar to copper than the standard steel indicator.
Do you provide oil analysis?
No. Please reach out to our support team to receive a recommendation for oil analysis services.
1. Features
WHAT is a Sight glass?
Air-Lock protects oil drums against contaminant ingression during storage. Air-Lock's patented design prevents contamination by increasing the headspace air pressure which acts as a barrier against contaminants. Air-Lock also features a yellow fluorescent indicator to indicate a good seal and that pressure is maintained.
WHAT makes the luneta sight glass special?
Air-Lock protects oil drums against contaminant ingression during storage. Air-Lock's patented design prevents contamination by increasing the headspace air pressure which acts as a barrier against contaminants. Air-Lock also features a yellow fluorescent indicator to indicate a good seal and that pressure is maintained.
2. Specs
Why the molded hex?
The molded hex feature you see in Luneta products is to ensure ease of installation. The hex design allows for a wrench to easily grab onto the sides of the device and be tightened down.
What is the line that runs down the side of the sight glass?
The small line you see on the side of all Luneta Sight Glasses, is what is known as a Nit line. It is where the two pieces of the mold come together during the injection molding process. It is not a defect. If you see other visual occlusions besides the nit line, please reach out to our customer service team or your distributor and we’ll make it right.
Why is the face of the Sight Glass flat?
The patented flat face design allows for unobstructed viewing of the lubricant and prevents the oil from being trapped within the Sight Glass.
What thread types are offered?
The Sight Glass is offered in NPT, BSPP, Metric, and BSPT threading.
What are the eyelets for?
The eyelets are designed for attaching tags to the Sight Glass. Many of our customers use them to attach MSDS or procedure cards.
3. Installation
HOw do I install the sight glass?
The directions can be found on the card included with your order or view our installation instructions here.
Where should I install the sight glass?
The Sight Glass should be installed at or below the oil level.
4. Application
Are Luneta Sight Glasses food safe?
Yes! Its Tritan construction makes Luneta Sight Glasses 100% food safe.
Can I use this on a high pressure system?
The Sight Glass is only for use on low pressure systems.
Can I use this outdoors?
Yes! We treat our entire line of Tritan products with a potent UV inhibitor. Our products will not yellow or crack in the sun even with prolonged or extreme exposure.
COMING SOON!
Tritan®
What is Tritan?
Tritan is the amazing polymer used to make all of Luneta’s Sight Glasses. It is an optically clear, extremely durable, and stain-resistant material initially formulated for the food and beverage industry. It’s been smashed with sledgehammers, microwaved with tomato sauce, and frozen in ice with amazing results.
What are the recommended operating temperatures for Tritan?
The recommended operating temperatures for Tritan are -40ºF to 200ºF (-40ºC to 93ºC)
Is tritan outdoor compatible?
Yes! Tritan contains UV stabilizers to protect it against long-term sun exposure.
What oils are compatible with Tritan?
Tritan is resistant to almost all synthetic and mineral oils, especially those compatible with PMMA (Acrylic). For a more detailed compatibility chart, see this link
Viton®
What oils are compatible with Viton?
Viton is resistant to almost all synthetic and mineral oils. For a more detailed compatibility chart, see this link
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