What is a common method for removing oil contamination?

Kidney loop filtration is a common method for removing oil contamination due to its effectiveness in circulating and cleaning fluid systems. This process involves setting up a secondary circuit that includes a filtration system to continuously filter out contaminants from the oil. The term "kidney loop" signifies the way the filtration unit is integrated into the main system, similar to how kidneys filter blood in the body.

This method allows for the online removal of particulates and water without having to drain the entire system, thus maintaining the integrity of the lubricant while improving its cleanliness. As the oil is circulated through the filter, contaminants are trapped, ensuring that only clean oil returns to the system. This not only extends the life of the lubricant but also enhances the efficiency and longevity of the machinery being lubricated.

In contrast, the other methods such as manual pumping, gravity filtration, and mechanical agitation may not offer the same level of continuous and effective cleaning. Manual pumping may require significant effort and may not filter contaminants as thoroughly or consistently. Gravity filtration relies on the natural flow of liquid, which can be slow and less effective for fine particles. Mechanical agitation can help in dispersing contaminants but does not necessarily remove them from the oil, potentially leading to an ineffective cleanup of the lubricating fluid.