Aluminum oil level sight glass

Types of aluminum oil level sight glasses

Several types of aluminum oil level sight glasses are available to help machinery operators and engineers monitor the lubrication status of machines. Each type has distinct features and benefits, making it suitable for different applications.

• Horizontal Aluminum Oil Level Sight Glasses : A common type of sight glass found in oil tanks and containers is the horizontal aluminum oil level sight glass. It is usually bolted onto oil tanks. This form of sight glass works best for tanks and containers with horizontal outlets. Oily liquids may be viewed in their natural position thanks to the transparent plastic or glass section of the sight glass. The quantity of oil inside the tank or container can be easily noted by users thanks to this angle.
• Vertical Aluminum Oil Level Sight Glasses : In oil tanks or containers with vertical threads, a standard sight glass is available for use. This type of sight glass features a glass or plastic view section that allows users to monitor the liquid level from a vertical position. It is generally bolted onto the side of the tank or container. Unlike a horizontal level sight glass, which is only applicable for horizontal tank outlets, a vertical oil level sight glass is mostly utilized in cylindrical tanks with a vertical outlet.
• Oval Aluminum Oil Level Sight Glasses : This kind of oil sight glass has oval-shaped transparent sections. The oval glass section provides users with a clear view of the oil level. Oval aluminum oil level sight glasses are common in machinery and equipment where the transparent section needs to be fitted on flat surfaces or tight spaces. The oval design is also ideal in some cylindrical oil tanks or containers to achieve a more aesthetic view.
• 103/76 Flat Plate Oil Level Sight Glasses: This is a standard kind of oil sight glass. It has a distinct glass section. Users can easily see through this clear part of the aluminum oil level sight glass and know the oil status. A 103/76 flat plate oil level sight glass is applicable in different types of equipment and machinery. It provides a convenient and essential monitoring tool for the lubrication system.

Specification & Maintenance

The site glasses are usually manufactured as per a specific machine or engine model. They are fixed using a set screw but this may vary with certain engine models. Normally, they are made in aluminum as per the capacity in liters with a range between 1/2 to 12 liters, and ANSI class 150 LDS. There is a common trend for engine design with them located at the engine bottom end. This is a place where oil is circulated, and visibility is enhanced in other sight glasses.Lubricated engine oil enhances visibility. They are usually calibrated in the child's ABC letters, and a clear liquid is seen indicating 'A' or 'Excellent' in the engine's performance. Yellow caution indicates 'B' or borderline, while other red colors indicate 'C' or critical, suggesting that the oil must be changed for the better performance of the engine. TThese sight glasses should be replaced or cleaned whenever there is a need to see the oil level. Usually, the majority of them have a 4-position field:

• 1 - Replaced
• 2 - Cleaned
• 3 - Repaired
• 4 - serviced

Sight glasses can be discarded if they are cracked or broken, while those that are dirty can be cleaned with the help of a soft synthetic bristled brush from the inside only. Cleaning the external part is as easy as using a detergent combined with warm water. The process should be done only once when the oil inside is visible. Rough cleaning with metal brushes is not recommended. An engine expert can repair sight glasses that are chipped, scratched, or cracked by removing the glass from the base or by welding. They can be repaired if the leak is not severe. Repairs are done by first cleaning off the residual oil or dirt and then adding a weld bead for filling cracks or fissures. A carbon cup can be used for some aluminum oil level sight glasses when welding to help cool the base. It is important to check the warranty and make sure there is no damage before performing any repairs.

It is possible to service a sight glass if it is dirty and there is no visible damage. First, remove the sight cover and clean it by using a degreaser. If there is any damage it is better to replace it. Before replacing check the whole housing section to confirm there is no damage. Once satisfied proceed to clean the new sight glass and replace it very securely. Further, there are chemicals that can be used for double-disc windows and aluminum oil sight glasses. They can help remove deposits in the middle of the glass. The chemicals include diacetone alcohol, ethyl acetate, xylol, dibasic esters, trichloroethylene, and carbon tetrachloride. However, they should not be used on any other sight glass.

Scenarios of aluminum oil level sight glasses

Oil sight glasses are primarily used in engines and motor cases, but there are many other applications. Here are a few key industries where oil sight glasses are commonly found.

• Automobile industry

  Oil sight glasses are commonly used in automobiles to show the level and quality of oil in the engine. They allow mechanics to check the engine's oil status without extracting any oil from it, facilitating regular maintenance and timely oil changes.

• Machinery and Equipment

  Oil sight glasses are used in various appliances and tools, including industrial engines, pumps, reducers, and machinery. They indicate the oil level and state of lubrication to maintain proper equipment functioning.

• Marine Industry

  Oil sight glasses are employed in marine applications, such as boats, yachts, and ships, to monitor the oil levels of marine engines, gearboxes, and equipment. They ensure proper lubrication and prevent marine equipment from malfunctioning.

• Power Generation

  Power generation refers to the process of generating electrical energy from various primary sources. Power generation industries have a critical mission: to produce sufficient electricity to meet global demands and support economic development. Oil sight glasses are used in the power generation industry, for instance, in oil-filled transformers. They observe the oil level and condition in transformers to ensure proper insulation and equipment operation.

• Heavy Industry

  Heavy industry generally refers to industrial sectors that produce large-scale industrial products. Key sectors include machinery manufacturing, steel production, shipbuilding, etc. Heavy industries are capital-intensive enterprises that use large amounts of raw materials to manufacture. Oil sight glasses find application in heavy industry to monitor oil levels in bearings, gears, and other transmission parts to ensure smooth operation and reduce wear.

• Food and Beverage Industry

  The food and beverage industry designates businesses engaged in the production, processing, packaging, and distribution of food and beverage items. Including but not limited to factories manufacturing baked goods, dairy products, meat, agricultural products, and beverages. The industry is closely linked to people's daily lives and is a critical industry supporting societal operation and prosperity. Oil sight glasses are used in food and beverage processing equipment to guarantee the smooth operation of bearings and transmission components.

How to choose aluminum oil level sight glasses

There are many aluminum oil level sight glasses in different shapes and styles for various industrial uses. But, when deciding to purchase any of these sight glasses, business buyers should check the following:

• Check Chemical Compatibility

  Business buyers should select sight glasses with aluminum frames that can offer chemical compatibility with the oil or fluid in question. This prevents corrosion or degradation that affects the functionality of the oil sight glass.

• Evaluate Display Accuracy

  The primary function of an oil sight glass is to show oil levels. So, choose glasses that provide clear visual indicators of oil levels. To do this, business buyers can consider glasses that provide level calibration, etch markings, or color-coded scales.

• Opt for Durable Materials

  Business buyers can ensure the lifespan of the machine and reduce frequent replacement by selecting oil sight glasses made of durable materials, such as polycarbonate, tempered glass, or borosilicate glass. In particular, tempered glass is designed to withstand high stresses and temperatures.

• Consider the Sensing Mechanism

  This is critical for purchasing sight oil glasses that meet business needs. Aluminum oil sight glasses can have different sensing mechanisms, such as capacitive, resistive, or conductive-based sensors. Each has advantages and limitations. For instance, capacitive sensors are immune to contamination and offer a non-contact solution. Conductive sensors are direct and simple, while capacitive sensors provide isolation, reduced complexity, and lowered maintenance.

• Evaluate Mounting Options

  Check the mounting styles and configurations to find an appropriate match for the machine. Many types are available, such as threaded, flanged, or welded mounting.

• Explore Additional Features

  Many sight glasses have extra features, such as blow-off valves and temperature rating, which business buyers can explore. Others have alarms and remote monitoring capabilities, but these are usually more advanced and may raise the prices. Consider the features when choosing an sight glass that matches particular operational requirements.

Aluminum oil level sight glass Q&A

Q1. Is it OK to look at the oil level while the engine is running?

A1. It is not recommended to check the oil level when the engine is running. In some cases, the sight gauge may have to be inspected while the engine is running. If this is unavoidable, the operator should ensure that the equipment is designed for this and take all necessary precautions.

Q2. Does oil evaporate from the engine?

A2. It is normal for a small amount of engine oil to evaporate. This happens due to the oil being exposed to high temperatures in the engine. Extreme heat can cause it to become thinner and allow some of it to evaporate.

Q3. Can the oil level in the engine go down while driving?

A3. It is normal for the engine oil level to drop slightly when driving due to evaporation. However, a significant drop in oil levels indicates a possible leak or excessive oil consumption that needs to be addressed.

Q4. Why is there a need to check oil levels in the sight glass?

A4. It is crucial to check the levels in the sight glass because it helps to see if there is any degradation in the oil. As lubrication happens, some constant breakdown of the engine oil occurs, which needs to be replenished.