The most common micro-organisms in oils are harmful bacteria and fungi. Hydrocarbon deteriorating micro-organisms can only survive in hydraulic and lubricating systems if there is access to water and oxygen. Generally, micro-organisms start producing surfactants and bio-polymers (slime) when they come into contact with oils which they can break down. During the break-down of oil, its properties change. Microbial growth can block your system and bypass filters and leads to sticky deposits on close-clearance mechanical components, resulting in servo valve hanging problems and associated turbine trips.

Previously, additives in the oil could inhibit the growth of micro-organisms. Today, however, such additives have been replaced by more environmentally friendly compounds so as to limit the damage in case of an oil spill. Microbial growth is therefore now more likely to occur in hydraulic and lubricating oil systems than before. For this reason, Ocean Team recommends increased focus on follow-up and maintenance of oil quality. Shorter intervals between preventive oil-care maintenance is required and can provide considerable savings in the long run. Ocean Team has vast experience in removing microbial growth, not only from hydraulic and lubricating oil systems but also from diesel fuel systems and process systems on marine vessels and offshore applications.