What are the three phases of water in oil?

The three phases of water in oil are indeed categorized as dissolved, free, and emulsified. This classification describes how water can exist in a lubricating oil.

Dissolved water refers to moisture that is completely soluble in oil, which occurs in very small quantities and is not visible. Free water is present as larger droplets that are not mixed with oil and can separate out if the oil were to settle. Emulsified water is when water is dispersed throughout the oil, forming a stable mixture that appears cloudy. This state can occur when water and oil are mixed vigorously, leading to the formation of an emulsion where tiny water droplets are suspended in the oil.

Understanding these phases is crucial for lubrication technicians, as each phase can affect the lubricating properties of the oil and impact equipment performance. For example, free water can lead to corrosion and rust if not managed, while emulsified water can lead to greater wear due to reduced lubrication effectiveness.