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Case Study: Emergency Lube Oil Dehydration at East Coast Refinery

Apr 13, 2026 | Contamination, ISO Cleanliness, Oil Quality & Purification

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Lube Oil Contamination Solutions

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Case Study

This case study explains how PFP executed a same-day deployment of a 50 GPM dehydrator to address a major water ingression event. 

Recently, we were contacted by an east coast refinery experiencing a sudden & significant water ingression event in a critical lube oil reservoir.

This contamination event was unplanned and time sensitive. The elevated water content posed an immediate risk to both the refinery’s ongoing operations and equipment.

Lube Oil Sample from East Coast Refinery (Before Dehydration)

Contaminated lube oil sample collected before dehydration.

Upon contact, the customer detailed requirements for a solution:

  • Water content below 100 PPM
  • Cleanliness target of ISO 16/14/11
  • Rapid depoyment with minimal disruption to operations

The Solution

Precision Filtration Products mobilized a dehydration solution immediately. 

  • 50 GPM Vacuum Dehydrator staged & delivered same day.
  • On-site technician deployed to supervise setup & ensure proper integration.
  • Approximately 50 ft. hose runs configured for continuous recirculation
  • System designed to meet refinery electrical requirements

The unit was mobilize, positioned, and operational within hours. 

The Results

Lube Oil Sample from East Coast Refinery (After Dehydration)

Lube oil sample after dehydration service. Noticeable visual difference in clarity/quality.

Positive results were observed immediately upon startup. After two weeks of continuous operation:

  • Water content reduced to negligible levels
  • Final cleanliness achieved: ISO 14/13/9 (exceeding target of 14/16/11)
  • System restored to safe, reliable operation conditions

 

Why Urgency Matters in Unexpected Contamination Events

Unplanned contamination can escalate quickly, especially in high-value systems like refinery lube oil reservoirs. These disruptions will often translate rapidly into substantial revenue loss or system damage.

It’s because of these dire consequences that we pride ourselves on our ability to solve contamination quickly & cost-effectively.

Overall, this case study highlights:

  • Rapid response capability (same-day mobilization)
  • High-capacity dehydration performance
  • Proven ability to exceed uncleanliness targets
  • On-site technical support for turnkey solutions

 

Dealing with similar issues? Give us a call.

Our expert filtration specialists are always available to discuss your unique application requirements over the phone or through our website.

Contact us today to learn how PFP can help ensure equipment reliability at your facility!

Contact an Expert

Need assistance? PFP will help you solve your industrial filtration challenges.

1-888-679-6645 / sales@pfpusa.com

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Need assistance? PFP will help you solve your industrial filtration challenges.

1-888-679-6645 / sales@pfpusa.com

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