Degradation 5 – Electro Static Discharge

Degradation 5 – Electro Static Discharge dives into the emerging reliability threat of ESD in modern lubrication systems. As filtration technologies improve and oil cleanliness increases, so too does the risk of electrostatic charge build-up and discharge—leading to issues like oil degradation, varnish formation, and damage to components such as filters and servo valves.

This course explains how and why ESD occurs, the role of oil conductivity and system design, and how to identify early warning signs of discharge events. You’ll also explore how ESD lowers dielectric strength, accelerates oxidation, and impacts overall lubricant performance. Finally, you’ll learn practical strategies to mitigate ESD through fluid formulation, grounding techniques, and system design considerations.

Whether you manage turbines, hydraulic systems, or any equipment requiring fine filtration and low-conductivity oils, this course equips you to better manage the hidden risks of ESD.

By completing this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the physics behind charge generation and accumulation in oil systems
• Identify how ESD affects oil quality, filter integrity, and system reliability
• Evaluate oil conductivity and dielectric strength in the context of system risk
• Implement practical ESD mitigation strategies in real-world applications
• Support reliability programs with informed, preventative maintenance planning