When should the cooling water to the oil cooler be turned on during the startup of a large condensing turbine?

The correct answer involves turning on the cooling water to the oil cooler once the oil has reached normal operating temperatures. This approach is vital because the purpose of the oil cooler is to maintain the temperature of the oil at an optimal level during operation.

If the cooling water is turned on too early, before the oil has warmed up, it can lead to a situation where the oil does not reach its ideal operating temperature efficiently. Oil that is too cold may not properly lubricate the machinery, leading to increased wear and potential damage during startup. Conversely, once the oil has attained normal operating temperatures, activating the cooling water helps to regulate the oil temperature and prevents it from overheating during extended operation, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the turbine system.

Turning on the cooling water at this stage also aligns with standard operating procedures and manufacturers’ recommendations, ensuring that all components function correctly together during startup, providing a smoother transition to operating conditions.