🔍 Key Concepts

• Effect of fuel oil temperature on viscosity entering a centrifuge • Purpose of fuel oil heaters upstream of a purifier/clarifier • Why separators are adjusted to a target viscosity at the inlet, not a single universal temperature

💭 Think About

• Look at the fuel oil heater and inlet passages in the illustration: what is the operator really trying to control before the oil reaches the bowl? • Would the same absolute temperature work equally well for light diesel oil and for very heavy fuel oil, or does something else about the oil have to be considered? • If the oil were heated above its boiling point, what would that do to separation in a high‑speed rotating bowl?

✅ Before You Answer

• Distinguish between temperature and viscosity and which one the separator manufacturer normally specifies at the inlet • Think about whether there is a single best temperature range for all kinds of fuel oils, or whether it changes with oil grade • Consider what happens if temperature approaches or exceeds water’s boiling point (212°F) inside the bowl