Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Practice Exam

Is the operating oil pressure of a lubrication oil cooler usually lower than the operating water pressure of the cooler?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: False

The operating oil pressure of a lubrication oil cooler is typically higher than the operating water pressure of the cooler. This is due to the need for effective oil circulation in the lubrication system, which requires maintaining a higher pressure to ensure that the oil reaches all necessary components under appropriate conditions. The oil must be pumped at a sufficient pressure to overcome any frictional losses and to ensure adequate flow rates in the lubrication system. On the other hand, the operating water pressure in the cooler is generally lower because water systems are designed to operate at lower pressures. The function of the cooler is primarily to remove excess heat from the oil rather than to pump it under high pressure. Therefore, the scenario where the oil pressure is lower than the water pressure does not align with typical operating conditions in lubrication systems.