MXPA00006860A - Lubricating oil reconditioning system - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for improved in-line contaminant removal from engine lubricating oil are provided which employ gravity to achieve a desired flow rate of oil. The invention is adapted for use with an existing engine oil lubrication system and continuously processes a side stream that, after processing, is returned to the engine oil. During processing the oil is first filtered in filter assembly structure (121) and then drained and deposited upon the upper central surface portion of a heated dome platen (165) whereon the oil forms a thin film from which relatively lowboiling volatile impurities are rapidly separated in a gaseous state. The gas is vented through upper outlet (169) and conduit (171) while the recovered reconditioned oil is collected on bottom platform (163) and recycled through return conduit (164).

Description

LUBRICATION OIL REHABILITATION SYSTEM Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an improved apparatus and methods for the continuous removal of contaminants from the lubrication oil of a combustion engine that operates with fuel.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION It is known that in fuel combustion engines, particularly those of an internal combustion type that use a liquid fuel such as gasoline or diesel oil, the filtration of the lubricating oil in circulation does not remove the liquid contaminants from the oil. These liquid contaminants comprise substantially relatively low gaseous condensates, especially water, whose presence in the oil causes corrosion and engine wear. Lubrication oil rehabilitation systems have previously been proposed that remove said liquid contaminants from the lubricating oil circulating in the engine, to be used in association with combustion engines that operate with fuel. Said prior art systems have several disadvantages since they are usually not efficient in terms of energy and are not highly effective. For example, in the prior art, a filter assembly is usually located under a vaporization chamber in an oil heating apparatus, thus depending on the pressure, for oil to enter the chamber. Therefore, the prior art apparatuses inject oil under pressure into the chamber, making it difficult if not impossible to achieve a thin film held for the purposes of vaporization of impurities. Additionally, variations in air pressure due to changes in engine rpm vary the amount of oil that enters the chamber as well as reducing the effectiveness of the device. US Patent No. 5, 198, 104 to Menyhert, describes for example, an apparatus for removing volatile components from the oil, in which the oil is filtered before it is subjected to a volatilization process using a heated plate with multiple protuberances. . However, in said apparatus the filter is placed under the volatilization chamber, so that oil accumulates in the filter and is discarded during a filter change. In the Menyjert patent, the cartridge-type heater is used, which characteristically does not distribute heat uniformly to the vaporization surfaces. Also, said heater must be partially exposed to the outer elements, thereby increasing the probability that the heater will fail due to short and corrosion. Also, although Menyhert alleges that his "walls" maintain a thin film together with a rotating mount, since the oil is fed under pressure in his chamber, it will be sprayed and the rotating mount is not effective for heavy tasks, since It requires strong stationary mounts. Also its rotating mount places excessive stresses on the inlet hoses and inlet and outlet fittings. The only vaporization surface in the Menyhert patent is the wall closest to the center. The oil gathers (gathers) in the valleys of the members of the concentric wall and does not travel in a thin film. As the oil enters under pressure, the oil, under increased pressure, is sprayed into the chamber and lost in the first surface of the vaporization wall. The Menyhert patent can not maintain a uniform thin oil layer during the volatilization process. In addition, for Menyhert to achieve a correct seal between its oil and filter inlet, the filter and the evaporator plate, and the lid and the outer can, a great effort must be made to adjust and readjust the tension in the fasteners and in the central post screwed in adjustable shape. This leads to the generally unacceptable result of filtration of oil through the seals and that said oil is not completely processed. As another example, in the North American Patent No. 4,289,583 of Engel, a heating post must make contact with the evaporating plate and transmit heat to the surfaces of the wall. This is a highly inefficient arrangement. Likewise, Engel'583 has the same problems of introduction of dew and uniform oil volatilization of Menyhert and other systems of pressure feeding by heated platen. The techniques taught to connect and seal the cap to the outer canister with the screws, cause the screw fins and castings to break under excessive stresses, thus causing significant leaks. So far it is known that no one has previously developed a lubrication oil rehabilitation system, where the oil is first filtered and then passed as a thin film on a heated stage configured generally as a dome, which uses gravity as a primary means to control the flow of oil on the platen.

Summary of the Invention The present invention relates in one aspect to a new and very useful improved process for carrying out the removal of contaminants in line, especially the continuous removal of filterable particulates and relatively low gaseous liquids, such as water. and hydrocarbons of an oil, particularly a lubrication oil that is used in an internal operation combustion engine. By this process, a lateral stream comprising a smaller fraction of the total volume of lubrication oil is pumped and circulated in an internal combustion engine of a collection area, so that the oil sump of the engine for the bearing surfaces of the engine, is separated and continuously charged to a pollutant removal area. In the pollutant removal zone, the first side stream is preferably filtered in a relatively low flow range and subsequently discharged in the central region of a surface or heat exchange plate generally configured as a dome, of motorcycle that the filtrate is filtered. spray like a film of thin fluid on that surface. The components of the oil film, particularly the liquid contaminants, which have relatively low bubble points, such as water and hydrocarbons derived from the engine fuel, are vaporized and separated therefrom in this way. The resulting oil that moves continuously downwards, is collected from around the periphery of the dome-shaped surface, and is recirculated and mixed with the engine oil, preferably with the engine oil found in the crankcase of engine oil. The present invention additionally relates in another aspect, to a new and very useful improved oil refurbishing apparatus, to carry out the removal process of contaminants of the present invention. This apparatus employs a filter that contains an assembly and a stage containing an assembly. Each assembly is adapted to be placed and mounted in the engine compartment of a vehicle. Each assembly is supplied with its own associated cover. The subassemblies are connected in the interior by means of conduction. The cover of the platen assembly encloses portions of the upper surface of the platen and defines on said portions of the platen a vapor collecting chamber. A stream of lubrication oil that will be rehabilitated will be charged first into the filter. The filtrate of the filter oil flowing to the central part of the dome-shaped stage moves down on top of it in the form of a thin film, is collected at the periphery of the stage and flows downwards in an inclination from where the collected oil is recirculated. The collection vapors in the chamber can be recirculated to the multiple intake manifold of the engine or released through a release valve when the chamber pressure rises above a pre-set or desired value. The dome-shaped stage is preferably a spherical segment, more preferably a hemispherical shape, although other ascending curved configurations in concave form may be used for the stage, if desired, such as a dome configuration with concentric ridges therein. Optionally, the filtered oil can be sprayed into the steam collection chamber. Preferably, the spray occurs around and above the apex of the stage configured as a dome. Therefore the vaporization of contaminants is more efficient. The filter assembly carries out the preparation of a freshly prepared filtered oil feed to charge it to the platen assembly. A maximized amount of particulates, including sediment and other contaminants that can be separated, are removed from the oil passing through the rehabilitation before the oil is charged to the platen assembly and formed therein in a thin flow film, preferably • starting at the apex of the dome-shaped stage heated in a controllable way. This procedure improves the ability to efficiently remove a maximum amount of volatile contaminants, such as water, with a minimum amount of heat energy. # 10 The apparatus of the present invention allows the use of a gravity force to achieve the flow pattern of the desired process, particularly in the region of the stage. Therefore, the amount of lubricating oil pumping capacity and the pumping pressure required for an oil pump for vehicles of the type that are needed to be used in the use of the rehabilitation system of the present invention, are reduced to a level comparable to that used by an oil pump in a • Conventional motor lubrication oil recirculation system. The process and apparatus of the present invention are functionally associable with an existing engine with a minimum amount of equipment alteration and with a minimum amount of labor and without a new design of the engine lubrication oil system.

'By regulating the flow of oil in a part more to the center of a dome-shaped stage, any brief inclination of the unit or centrifugal or inertial force applied briefly, such as occurs in the normal use of vehicles, is not substantially interrupted the thin film or the residence time of the oil on the evaporation surface of the plates. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other and additional objects, objects, features, purposes, advantages, modalities and the like, from the teachings of the present specification, taken together with the accompanying drawings and with the Claims attached.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In the drawings: Figure 1 is a fragmented view of the environment in the form of a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an oil rehabilitation system of the present invention, in functional association with the lubrication system of an engine. of fuel combustion. - Figure 2 is an elongated plan view of the oil rehabilitation apparatus employed in the rehabilitation system of Figure 1, with the filter assembly shown in translucent view; Figure 3 is a vertical sectional view of the apparatus shown in Figure 2 generally taken axially, but shows the oil filter assembly in translucent view and shows the steam release valve in a location circumferentially displaced relative to the oil entry location for purposes of representation and convenient description; Figure 4 is a horizontal sectional view taken generally along line IV-IV of the apparatus shown in Figure 3; Figure 5 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, but showing an alternative embodiment of an oil rehabilitation system of the present invention, shown in fragmented functional association with the lubrication system of a fuel combustion engine . Figure 6 is a vertical sectional view similar to that of the Figure 3, but showing the dome stage and its associated cover in additional association with an alternative head stage, the combination of the resulting apparatus being adapted for use in the embodiment of the system of Figure 5; Figure 7 is a side elevational view of an alternative filter assembly for associating it with the embodiment of Figure 5, and the apparatus of Figure 6; Figure 8 is an elevation view of the end of the alternative filter assembly shown in Figure 7; Figure 9 is a view similar to that of Figure 7 but with both can-type filters removed; and Figure 10 is a view similar to that of Figure 7 but with both can-type filters removed; and Figure 11 is a top plan view of the structure shown in Figure 9; Figure 12 is an axial sectional view through the preferred embodiment of an alternative filter assembly adapted for use in the present invention, a portion of the outer bottom portion of the refillable filter element or cartridge being shown; Figure 13 is a fragmentary side elevational view of the upper part of the exterior of the filter assembly of Figure 12, 10 including the mounting bracket, the filter assembly being rotated 90 ° in a clockwise direction. relative to the orientation shown in Figure 12; Figure 14 is a sectional view in the form of diameter and diagram taken through a middle region of the filter assembly of Figure 12; Figure 15 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the oil rehabilitation apparatus (or platen assembly) employed in the oil rehabilitation system of Figure 1, the present apparatus being used alternatively in place of the apparatus of Figures 2 to 4, and in combination with the oil filter assembly of Figures 12 to 14, this oil filter assembly being shown in a translucent view; Figure 16 is a vertical sectional view of the apparatus 25 shown in Figure 15, generally taken axially through the plate assembly, but with the oil filter assembly being shown in a translucent view; and Figure 17 is a top plan view of the platen assembly cover with the platen and the cover plate removed.

Detailed Description of the Invention With reference to Figure 1, an embodiment of a lubrication oil rehabilitation system for motor of the present invention is shown, said system being generally designated with the number 20. In system 20, the lubrication oil which has been drained and collected in an oil sump of the engine 21, is extracted by means of a conventional oil pump 22, by means of an interconnection conduit 23 through a conventional oil mesh structure 24, located in the oil pan housing. oil 21. The oil is passed successively from the pump 22, as a main lubricating oil stream through the respective conduits 26 and 27 in a conventional replaceable oil filter 28 or the like. In the filter 28, the oil under pressure of the partial pump 22 from the conduit 27 is filtered in a conventional manner to remove contaminants that can be filtered, such as particulates including sediment; and the filtered oil passes in a conduit system 33 through which, it is transported to the motor bearings 34 ^ for conventional lubrication purposes. The oil drains down from the bearings 34 (not detailed in Figure 1), and is collected again in the oil sump 21, to recycle it through the pump 22. The conduits 26 and 27, are connected together through of a bypass valve or a proportional flow divider 29, which divides the oil entering from the duct 26 into two streams, a main oil stream in the duct 27 comprising more than 50 percent of the volume of the oil that enters and flows through conduit 26, and a lateral oil stream in conduit 31, which comprises the percentage of the volume of oil remaining. The lateral stream that enters and flows through the conduit 31, feeds an oil rehabilitation apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention, said embodiment being generally designated with the number 32. From the conduit 31, the lateral oil stream under partial pressure generated by the pump 22, enters the oil recovery apparatus 32 and is processed as described herein, to separate contaminants that can be filtered, as well as low-bubble contaminants from the oil. The resulting processed and rehabilitated oil leaves the apparatus 32, through the interconnecting conduit 36 and preferably passes (path not specifically detailed in Figure 1) in the oil sump 21 or the like, to be recycled and reused in the lubrication of the engine. Volatiles separated from the oil in the apparatus 32 are discharged from the apparatus 32 in the conduit 37, and are preferably transported to the engine intake manifold (not detailed) or the like. The system 20 is well adapted to be installed in combination with a previously manufactured vehicle engine or similar, using a computer or the equivalent. Said equipment may comprise, for example, the proportional flow splitter 29, the lubrication oil rehabilitation apparatus 32 and the components of the interconnecting conduit, such as the conduit 31. It should be noted that, in the system 20 there are essentially two lubrication oil rehabilitation systems, wherein a system comprises the main oil stream that is charged to the conduit 27 in which the filter 28 is used for the processing of the oil. oil, and wherein the second system comprises the lateral oil stream that is charged to the conduit 31 in which the apparatus 32 is used for oil processing. It is a characteristic of system 20, which may be associated fl | functionally with a vehicle engine without redesigning the already installed lubrication oil system. Therefore, even the originally installed lubrication oil pump (which is usually located in the oil pan), you can usually use it in the system 20,. Those skilled in the art will also readily appreciate that, particularly in the case of engines for relatively small vehicles, the apparatus 32 may be employed as a replacement or alternative to a conventional oil filter assembly, such as the replaceable oil filter 28 or Similary. Referring to Figures 2 to 4, the structure and operation of the apparatus 32 is shown. The conduit 31 is connected to a circular flat lid plate or block (see, for example, Figure 3), which is integrated conveniently by a casting body and machined metal. The connection with the conduit 31 is carried out by means of a conventional compression fitting screwed together or the like. In block 38, oil entering from conduit 31 generally passes radially in a channel 41 and enters an axial passage or bore 52 which is defined in a pin 43, which is threadably connected to block 8. , the pin 43 having opposite ends in the chamber here. The straight circumferential outer surfaces 43A of the pin 43 are threaded and adapted to be engaged in a coiled manner coincident with the threaded axial inlet hole 47 (not detailed but shown in translucent view) of a replaceable oil filter type canister 44 (not detailed but shown in translucent view). In this filter, the oil that flows from the outside is conventional. (Most standard auto filters have a "check valve" that will not allow inward and outward flow).

In addition, the face plate 48 of the filter 44 is provided with a packing retaining shoulder 46 which remains circumferentially in the face plate 48 in a radially spaced relation to the hole 47 and a packing ring of the square section 49 or similar, which is seated inwardly adjacent the shoulder 46 in the face plate 48. The upper surface of the block 38 is provided with a straight circular shoulder 51 that extends in a radially spaced relation to the passage 42 and whose outer surface is flat. When the filter 44 is threadably connected to the pin 43, the packing ring 49 is placed in a sealed manner against the shoulder 51. The axial bore 52 which is located in the pin 43, its outer end (oil inlet) is optionally but preferably adjusted with an inserted metering nozzle 53. Therefore, the pressurized oil in the passage 42, enters the bore 52 in a pressure and regulated flow range, and is discharged (preferably sprayed) into the filter 44. After it passes through the filter medium 54 (not detailed, but shown in translucent view) in the filter 44, the filtered oil comes out of the filter 44 through its outlet holes 56, passes through a cavity 55 and is deposited above and inside a well of the flat and shallow bottom part 57 defined in the upper part of the block 38 between the pin 43 and the shoulder 51. A plurality of channels that extend diagonally downwardly and inwardly, circumferentially spaced 58 (four are shown for illustrative purposes), extend from the bottom part of the well 57 through the block 38. Thus, the channels 58 are adapted for the passage of the oil from the well 57. The peripheral regions of the face surface of the bottom of the block 38 are flat and are adapted to face the coupling with the edge of the hoop of the upper part that extends circumferentially 61 of a cover 59 that is conveniently integrated by a casting body and machined metal. The cover 59 is preferably shown as a structure of a plate having in an axial vertical section, a generally W-shaped configuration. The outer wall 62 of the cover 59 extends upward in a circumferential fashion and terminates at the rim edge. 61 Between, and attached to, the regions of the bottom portion of the wall 62 in a transverse region 63, is a spherically formed thickened dome 64. Within the dome 64 is a casting, a conductor or heater similar to a cable heated by electrically energized, electrically energizing, spiral-shaped resistor of conventional type 66. A flat cover plate 67 is mounted through the opening nozzle of bottom 71 of dome 64, by means of head screws of button 72 or the like, which are threadably received in the adjacent portions of dome 64. A central hole 73 in plate 67 is conveniently provided with a conventional navy-type 68 rubber protective ring. Through the central hole of the protective ring 68, the lead wires 66 are connected in the interior with the opposite ends of the heater extending in spiral form 66. When the apparatus 32 is being used with a vehicle engine, the heater 66 can be selected to be operated by a 12 volt power source (such as a vehicle battery) * conventional) the watage being determined by such variables as the type of heater used 66, the type of control of temperature used and the like, various types of conventional temperature control means can be used, with a temperature switch being preferable. attached to the bottom surface of the dome 64. The switch cuts the current to the heater at a previously determined upper limit and then the cycles of on and off the heater maintains the desired heat of vaporization. The operating temperature for heater 66 can be as desired. However, a preferred temperature for use with an apparatus 32 when associated with a conventional internal combustion engine is approximately 180-190 ° F. To connect the cover 59 with the block 38, a plurality of (for example four) transverse perforations spaced circumferentially (not detailed) around the perimeter of the plate 59 are provided, which are each aligned with a plurality of corresponding circumferentially spaced walled wall portions 74 in the wall of the cover 62. A head screw 76 with an associated safety wheel 77 or the like, extends through each bore of the plate 38 and is receives in a threaded form in a equalizing perforation (not detailed) in each thickened wall portion 74. To achieve a *. a seal between the block 38 and the cover 59, a flat package 78 is interposed between them. To mount the apparatus 32 to a surface, such as a fire wall or the like (not detailed), the wall of the cover 62 is supplied with a lateral projection 79 to which is fixed a mounting bracket 81 which is fastened to the projection 79, by means of hexagonal head screws 82 or the like. In operation, freshly filtered oil (not shown) from the filter 44 passes down through the channels 58, is deposited above the region of the central upper outer surface of the heated dome 64, is sprayed and forms a thin film above the heated surface of the dome 64. Volatile components such as water are rapidly consumed and released from the oil film and enter the gas space of the chamber 83 which is defined as the walls 62, the dome 64 and the plate 38. When the gas (vapor) pressure in a chamber 83 reaches some predetermined value, a normally closed pressure release valve 84 or the like opens automatically, thereby releasing the pressure in the chamber 83. When the pressure inside the chamber 83 drops to some determined lower value, the release valve 84 automatically closes, thus returning the chamber 83 to its c normally isolated. The release valve 84 is functionally connected to the conduit 37, using a compression fitting 86 or the like, which, as indicated above, is in turn connected to the engine intake manifold (not shown). Therefore, vapors released from chamber 83 are not released directly into the atmosphere, but are Injected into the heated manifold where combustion (oxidation) of the fuel components (which can be oxidized) may occur in the released vapors. (as desired for control purposes and pollution reduction). The oil in and on the surface of the dome 64, flows downward by gravity and is collected in a flat sump of the bottom part 87 that lies between the bottom regions of the wall 62 and the dome 64 over the transverse region 63. The oil in the sump 87 is extracted through the conduit 36, which is threadedly connected through an aperture defined in a thickened portion 88 of the wall 62, whose opening is connected to the conduit 36 by means of a threaded compression fitting 89. The cover 59 is also preferably provided (see Figure 4) with another thickened portion 91, which is provided with a threaded opening (not detailed), which is fixed with a screwable coupling plug 92, for purposes of optional change of the location of the fitting 89 and of the duct 36, for attain a direct route back to the oil pan 21 in a particular application of the apparatus 32. Although the dome 64 (not shown) is preferably of generally hemispherical configuration, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other segment configurations may be employed. spherical for the dome 64 (such as parabolic shapes, elliptical shapes, conical shapes and the like), and also that, f 10 pu Widely use any upper centrally raised surface in a vertical or curved shape convexly in the dome 64. The filtered oil is preferably deposited in the region of maximum upward projection of the upper surface of the dome 64, so that the path of the downward flow (by gravity) of the oil comprising the thin film on the upper surface of the dome, is of maximum length to achieve f the preferred heat exposure for a thin film. Both heating of the dome as the flow rate of the oil film on the surface of the dome should be 20 relatively uniform preferably relatively "hot" or "cold" spots in the dome being avoided and being avoided the irregularities of the localized surface of the dome, which could cause localized variations in the oil film flow range (and oil exposure time).

Although some of the residual pressurization of the oil that is being processed in the apparatus 32 is maintained during the residence of the oil in the apparatus 32, the force of gravity in compliance with • the desired oil flow characteristics, play a role important in the operation of the apparatus 32. In normal operation, the existing oil pressure is predictable, for example, in conduits 33 and 31 of the system 20 and has a safe value (over an adjustment range), since the pump of oil 22 of a given engine operates in approximately one • 10 constant pressure through engineering design. Also, in the normal operation of a particular motor, the pressure existing in the manifold falls within a predictable range, the exact pressure being dependent at any given moment, of said operating variables such as, engine rpm (revolutions per minute), engine load, range and extent of fuel consumption, engine operating temperature and the like. Normally, the average temperature of the oil volume in an internally operated combustion engine is less than 212 ° F (100 ° C) under atmospheric ambient conditions. Therefore, the range of flow of oil through the apparatus 32, can be adjusted by a proportional flow divider 29, so that, during normal operating conditions, the oil level in the sump 87 is sufficient to cover the opening in the thickened portion 89 leading to conduit 36. Therefore, an operation condition is avoided in the This oil level is below the upper opening, so that the gas in the chamber 83 can be vented through the conduit 36. Normally, in normal operation, the gas pressure released by the valve 84, is adjusted to be substantially above the oil fluid pressure that normally exists in the duct 31 Therefore, the liquid oil enters the line 36 from the sump 87 at any given time, by means of a resulting combined pressure comprising the pressure in the duct 31, force of gravity and gas pressure in the chamber 83. The pressure released by the valve 84 is preferably chosen to be above the average pressure of the manifold so that, when the valve 84 is open, the The gas pressure in the chamber 83, therefore, aids in the recirculation of oil from the apparatus 32. For purposes of improving the filtration of the oil before that the oil film is thrown into the dome of the stage, particularly when the lubrication oil of a relatively large size motor is being rehabilitated in accordance with the present invention, sub-assemblies of the filter of great filtering capacity are preferred. For example, in the oil refurbishing apparatus 32, the single oil filter 44 can be replaced by a filter assembly 96 as shown in Figures 7 and 8, which incorporate a pair of oil filters 97 and 98. (both being conveniently of the same structure as the replaceable can-type filter that rotates 44). The assembly 96 that is incorporated in an alternative system, as shown in Figure 5, which is designated with the number 101, and which uses the alternative apparatus as shown in Figure 6, designated with the number 102. The components in Figures 5 and 6 corresponding to the components of Figures 1 to 4, they are numbered in a similar way but with the addition of main marks in them, for convenient identification purposes. In system 101, the lubrication oil that has been drained and collected in a conventional engine oil pan (not shown), as in Figure 1, is extracted by a conventional oil pump (not shown) and, as shown in Figure 1, enters interconnecting conduit 31 '. As shown in Figure 5, the oil in conduit 31 'is provided to apparatus 102. Apparatus 102 of Figure 5 is generally the same as shown in Figure 3, but is additionally associated with an adapter plate. of cooperation 103. The oil in the conduit 31 ', which enters the plate (or block) 38', as shown in Figure 5, passes through the channel 41 'through the perforation 52 and into the channel 104 on the plate 103. The lower face of the plate 103 is threadedly associated with the opening 1 1 1 with outer circumferential threads 43A 'through the pin 43'. A compression fitting 1 12 meshes with the plate 103 in the nozzle of the channel or perforation 104, so that an associated duct 106 receives the oil entering from the duct 31 'and transports this oil to the filter assembly 96. The base of the assembly 96, comprises a structure of the manifold 99, which is preferably comprised of casting and machined metal. In the structure of the manifold 99, the channel means is provided, by which the inlet oil from the conduit 106 is fed in separate streams to the filters 97 and 98. One of said streams is fed through each of the two vertical threaded pins 107 and 108 from the structure of the manifold 99 in the filters 97 and 98 that are associated therewith. The oil entering each filter 97 and 98 is filtered and subsequently drains down from each of the filters, first in a collection sump 1 13 that is similar in function to the sump 87. From each of said sumps, the filtered oil is collected and enters the return duct 109, through which the filtered oil is returned to the nozzle of the inlet bore 1 1 1 of the plate 103. Here the duct 109 is threadedly connected to the nozzle of the opening or drilling 1 1 1, by means of a compression fitting 1 14. In the drilling 1 1 1, the filtered inlet oil drains downwards, through the channels 58 'in the central region of the heated dome 64' , thereby forming a thin oil film from which volatile materials are separated.

The structure of the manifold 99, is formed with an integral bracket structure 12, which makes it possible for the assembly of the assembled oil filter 96 to be mounted to a counterfire wall of the like, in a vehicle (not shown) adjacent to the apparatus 102. For ease of use, each opposite end of the manifold 99, is supplied with an inlet 1 16 and an outlet 1 17 (see Figure 10), to facilitate use in connecting the manifold 99 to the conduits 106. and 109. Only a pair of holes 116 and 1 17 are used, in a given installation with each of f 10 the unused orifices being closed by means of a screwed plug (not detailed). In the practice of the process of the present invention, it is found that it is desirable and preferable for the oil, which is rehabilitated to be filtered sufficiently to separate from it, substantially all particulates above a particle size within the range of from about 1 to f) about 5 microns. Since typical full-flow oil filters are conventional, they are considered to remove particulate above about 40 microns, and since conventional typical deviation oil filters are considered to remove particulates above from about 10 to about 15 microns, oil filters for conventional vehicles are not used to achieve said preferred filtration. Likewise, the oil flow ranges conventionally used through oil filters, are * normally considered to be up to approximately 20 gallons per hour, which is believed to be excessive for purposes of achieving particulate filtration to decrease to a particle size within the range from about 1 to • 5 approximately 5 microns. For each of said preferred purposes, oil flow ranges are currently preferred through an oil rehabilitation system of the present invention in the range of from about 4 to about 10 gallons per hour. The flow ranges • 10 higher, do not result in the desired filtration of all larger particles of about 5 microns, while the lower flow ranges apparently do not appear to be practical, but also seem to interfere with the achievement of desirable residence times for let the oil flow like a film thin to the parts of the surface of a dome-shaped stage that is in the stage assembly. It is believed that the oil flow ranges within the range of from about 4 to about 10 gallons per hour, will be better when associated with the pressures of The average oil is preferably in the range of from about 20 to about 10 psi, and more preferably in the range of from about 25 to about 100 psi. It is believed that higher oil pressures will generally be undesirable, since normally require the use of a valve that reduces the pressure and can lead to pressure problems in the platen assembly, such as in the chamber above the platen. Lower oil pressures are generally not practical for use in a system of the present invention. As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, various filter structures that are commercially available are known, which will function as a filter of the engine oil to remove therefrom particles smaller than the desired particle size of from about 1 to about approximately 5 microns. A currently preferred filter structure is commercially available from Parker Hannifin Corp., Raycore Div., Modesto, CA, as its filter assembly Model No. LFS-801 or LFS-802. As shown in illustration form, for example, in Figures 12 to 14, said filter assembly structure 121 incorporates a relatively large cover body 122 with elongated, generally cylindrical shaped sides 123 and an integrally formed closed end end 124. The body 122 is comprised of a cast metal, such as an aluminum alloy or the like. The opposite or open end 124 of the body 122 is widened and is threaded circumferentially on the inside to mate coincidentally with a cap cranked on the outside 126. The locations on the opposite sides in the form of a diameter of the cap 126, each having a different pair of projection legs 127 of a U-shaped flat bracket 128, mounted by means of adjustable screw assemblies 129. Bracket 128 has a flat base that connects internally with a leg 121, which "provides a surface that is suitable for mounting the filter assembly 121 to a fire wall or the like, in a vehicle engine compartment, the cover 126, is additionally provided with an oil inlet orifice. 132 and with an oil outlet hole 133, as illustrated in Figure 12. The inlet hole 132, is connected directly and exterior to a south dosing device 134, which is threadedly associated with the oil inlet port 132. The outlet orifice 133, is connected in a threaded manner with a bend 136 which is associated with a duct 137 (which corresponds to the duct 31 of Figure 1), which transports the filtered oil from the filter assembly structure 121, to the vaporizer or stage assembly 102 (see, for example, Figure 6). Therefore, the assembly structure of the filter 121 is adapted to replace the two assemblies of the two-component filter 96, as shown in Figure 5 and Figures 9 through 1 1. The filter element 138 of the filter assembly structure 121 is generally cylindrically shaped with a channel 139 extending therethrough. The filter element 138 is preferably comprised of a winding controlled by a cotton or twisted yarn coffer or similar. Due to the computer-directed and progressive changes in the fabric and the overlap tension of the twisted yarn, the wound layers of the twisted yarn become progressively more porous with the increase in radial distance from the axial channel of the center 139 of the yarn element. filter 138. Therefore, the twisted yarn in a region similar to a layer 141 that is adjacent the axially extending channel 139 of the filter element 138, is characterized by the ability to pass through the particles which have a particle size that is less than about 5 microns. From one to four or even more regions or stages similar to adjacent layers in additional radial form, they are formed successively and adjacently on the innermost adjacent layer in axial form, such as the layer-like regions 142, 143, 144 and 145 of the element of the filter 138, as illustrated in the cross-sectional diagrammatic view of Figure 14. Since the distance from the center channel of the filter element 139 increases, each of the successive regions of the regions similar to layers 142, 143, 144 and 145, is wound to remove particles that are larger than those that can pass through the radially adjacent inner layer. For example, the four and five elements of the appropriate polished and progressive layer filter, such as the filter element 138, which comes from larger filterable particles, which lie radially inwardly to the axial channel 139, They can be used to remove particles. The progressive reductions that are illustrated in the sizes of particles removed from the oil, they flow inward radially from the outer surface or filter element 138, into the axial channel 139 for several representative filter elements 138 which are shown in Table 1 below.

The filter element 138 is inserted into the body 122. The lower end of the axial channel 139 is placed on a dimple 147 formed centrally at the closed end 124. Once placed, there is a circumferential space 148 between the portions of the circumferential surface of the filter element 138 and within the surface portions of the cylindrical sides 123. The upper end of the filter element 138 is received in a rested and matching fashion in the inner portions of the cover 126, so that, when the cap 125 is completely screwed in with enlarged top end portions of the cylindrical sides 123, the upper end of this filter element 138 is seated in a sealed manner and supported with the portions of the adjacent surface of the cap 126 The inlet hole in the cover 126 is connected to the circumferential space 148 and the outlet orifice is connected to the axial channel 139. As indicated by the arrows in Figure 12, the • oil entering through the inlet hole 132, entering the circumferential space 148, flowing radially through the filter element 138, entering the axial channel 139 and exiting through the. : outlet hole 133. The preferred oil flow ranges and oil pressures (indicated above), can be achieved for the oil • 10 which is being charged to a suitable oil filter element which is found in the filter assembly structure 121, by means of the threaded connection (or otherwise) of a dosing orifice (or also referred to as an "orifice"). Dosing spout ") 134, with the inlet 132 of the cover 126 and associating in threadably forms the outer end portion of the dispenser 134 with the coriductp 137 that supplies the oil to the dispensing nozzle 134. The size of the orifice of said dosing nozzle 134 can . vary, depending on variables such as the oil pressure associated with the output current from the oil pump of the associated engine and / or the total volume or oil flow range of the > engine that is being pumped by the associated engine oil pump. For typical motor sizes, a diameter size of . ... hole of the measuring spout 134 within the range of from about 0.025 to about 0.04 inches, appears to be adequate with a metering orifice diameter size of approximately 0.031 inches, apparently being a generally useful size and therefore currently preferred. One of the desirable characteristics of said progressively graduated filter element 138 is that the effect known as "plugging" or "loading" is eliminated, such as occurs with a "Filter element of the corresponding prior art, which only has a simple range of particle filtration capacity.

I soon as the outer porous portions of said type of filter element become contaminated or filled with particles, the filter element becomes ineffective for filtering additional particles. Another of the desirable characteristics of said progressively graduated filter element 138 is that it eliminates the effect known as "channeling" wherein the oil under pressure in a , filter tends to search and follow trajectories of less resistance.

These trajectories are associated with little or no filtration. It is believed that by loading the filler assembly with a filtered oil feedstock, where the particle size is not more than about 5 microns, a surprisingly better removal of volatile particles from the oil being rehabilitated is obtained. the system of the present invention, "compared to a comparable feedstock that is filtered with conventional oil filters of the types indicated above.

An assembly structure of the filter 121, which has a relatively high volume and a relatively large filter element 138, is preferable. Therefore, the range and pressure of oil flow measured in each of the respective inlet and outlet locations of the filter , may fall within the respective ranges indicated above. However, in the assembly structure of the filter 121, the oil flow rate and the oil pressure are reduced, because the volume of the structure 121 and the size of the filter element 138, thus improve the effectiveness of the oil filtration and the desired particulate removal is carried out. Due to the size and performance characteristics of said filter structure 121, the respective covers located separately but preferably adjacent to the filter assembly and to the plate assembly, as illustrated for example in Figs. 15, are currently desired. and 16. As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, the variables of the platen assembly apparatus, such as, for example, the size or configuration of the dome-shaped platen, or the size of the dome, are somewhat limited. the camera on the stage, for the practical considerations of space available in an engine compartment. It is currently convenient and preferred to use a plate which is configured symmetrically and relative to an axis that extends vertically. Preferably, the platen has a diameter that is within the range of from about 3 to about 9 inches, although various configurations and platen sizes may be employed. In Figures 15 and 16, an alternative embodiment of a plate assembly 149 is illustrated, which is now believed to be suitable for use with a functional combination with a filter assembly structure 121 in the practice of the present invention. A translucent view of an assembly structure of the filter 121 is shown in Figures 15 and 16. The plate assembly 149 incorporates a generally cylindrically shaped shell 151, which includes an outer side wall configured in cylindrical form 162 and an integrally formed bottom part platform 153, ri extending in the shape of a diameter to through the lower end of the side wall 152. An inner shoulder 154 extends circumferentially around the interior of the side wall 152 and defines an interior rim surface to which adjacent portions of the perimeter of a dome-shaped stage 165 can be placed and thereby support stage 165 in an upwardly spaced relation relative to the platform of the part of 153. The screws of the machine or similar (not detailed) are mount to the edge portions of the plate 154 for the edge of the shoulder 154. Here the dome-shaped plate 154 is in the form of illustration but is preferably comprised of a formed steel plate, the formation being carried out by a process of pressed by die or a similar process. The bottom surface of this plate 154, has been fixed thereto by means of an adhesive or the like (not detailed), by means of a conventional thermostatic controlled electric element 155. The thermostatic control can be located in varied form; for example it may be located in the chamber 161 B adjacent the side wall 152. In effect, the plate 154 divides the cover 151 in an upper chamber 161A and in a lower chamber 161 B. A covering plate tilted in a circular shape 156, extends transversely and rests against the upper end portions of the side wall 152. A plurality of hexagonal head machine screws 157 spaced circumferentially or the like, extend through the portions of the perimeter of the plate. 56 and fit co-incidentally and threaded into the threaded sockets formed in the upper end portions of the side wall 152. A sealing gasket (not shown) can be positioned between the upper end portions of the side wall 152 and the platen 156. Here a central (preferably axial) bore through the plate 156, is threadedly fitted with a dispensing nozzle 158. A conduit 159, connects inside the dosing jet 158 with the elbow 136 associated with the filter assembly structure 121, so that the oil filtered from the orifice outlet 133 of the filter assembly structure 121, is transported and enters the upper center portion of the plate assembly 149. The dosing jet 158 is preferably adapted to exit all of the oil fed therein and through it. of the same as an aerosol, which is discharged into the chamber 161 which is located on the cover 151, preferably on the apex of the plate 165. The oil entering is fed down into the upper chamber 161 preferably in axial form (in form relative to the assembly of the plate 149), from the end or terminal nozzle of the dosing supply 158. The oil mist does not need to have, but preferably it has a conical pattern that is aligned with the region of the central apex (preferably axially) of the dome-shaped stage 165. It is believed that the dew is charged in a conical-shaped pattern, as shown in the Figure 16, improves and maximizes the surface area of the filtered oil in the chamber of the stage 161 A. At present, it is convenient and preferred that the diameter of the conical base of the aerosol in the place where the conical base reaches the surface from plate 165 is less than about 3 inches, but other diameters can be used if desired. The input chamber 161 from the dosing supply 158, is preferably deposited on the top surface of the apex region of the dome-shaped stage 154 and forms a thin film (not shown) on the stage 154, which flows by gravity downwards and outwards on the portions of the upper surface of the top surfaces of the plate 165, to the lower outer peripheral side regions of the plate 165. From there, the oil flows through a plurality of circumferentially spaced apertures 166 • in the peripheral side regions of the plate 165, in shape 5 adjacent to the shoulder 154 and moving towards the lower chamber 161 B. In the chamber 161 B, the oil flows downwards by gravity on the upper inner surfaces of the platform the bottom part 153, whose surfaces are conically tapered so that the oil flows towards a central outlet orifice • 10 (preferably axial) 167. A similar connection sleeve 168 is associated in a threaded manner with the hole 167 and with the external portions of the sleeve 168 that are connected in a threaded manner to a conduit 164. As the experts will appreciate it eh the art, you can use several distributions to join the hole exit 167 with the duct 164. The duct 164 conveys the returned oil to the associated engine; it is currently preferred to load this oil in the crankcase of the engine oil (not detailed). Although during operation the plate 165 which is in When the plate 149 assembly is preferably uniformly heated to a selected temperature within the range of from about 180 ° to about 190 ° F, the platen temperatures are generally believed to be within the range of from about 160 ° to about 200 ° F, are effective and useful in the separation of volatile particles from the oil entering contaminated. The chamber 161 A on the plate 165, which for convenience can be called in the present description as the stage of the stage, is heated by itself by the adjacent stage 165. However, if As desired, the side wall 152 and the platform of the bottom part 153 can be heated, preferably in electrical form (not shown). A preferred configuration of the dome-shaped stage 165, as indicated above, is spherical, more preferably hemispherical. However, as described above, in the practice of the presently preferred process of the present invention, and particularly when a graduated filter assembly for oil filtration is being employed, the dome-shaped stage 165 may include certain modifications. For example, the dome-shaped stage 165 may conveniently incorporate a plurality of concentric, radially spaced, apex-like elevations 162 and portions of its upper surface. Each elevation 162 has a small weight relative to the portions of the upper surface adjacent radially. Therefore, a thin film of oil flowing radially downwardly on the upper surfaces of the plate 165, preferably undergoes at least two alternating cycles, being thickened and thinned before reaching the perimeter bottom outside of plate 165. It is believed that summit-like elevations improve oil rehabilitation, by operating to increase the opportunities for volatile particles that will be separated from the oil that is rehabilitated, while the oil is in a relationship of contact with the plate 165 in the form of a thin film. Under the normal range of operating conditions of an associated internal combustion material, it is desirable to continuously return the volatile particles from the stage chamber 161 A to the associated engine manifold, from a volatile particle outlet 169 which is preferably located in a upper middle portion of the stage chamber 161 A, here preferably in a cover plate 156. Illustratively, a perforation through a cover plate 156 is provided adjacent but in a spaced relationship to the dosing supplier 158; this perforation is associated in a coiled manner with an elbow 163. In turn, the elbow 163 is connected to a conduit 171, which preferably conveys volatilized vapors from the oil being rehabilitated to the associated engine manifold. In order to improve the separation of the processed (for example, rehabilitated) oil from the volatilized vapors found in the chamber 161 A, it is now preferable to have the processed oil reaching the region of the lower outer perimeter of the disc 154, flowing downwards and diagonally to the central collection area or sump located at the center below the platen 165 (as described above), to the return conduit 164. Said oil collection procedure minimizes the time of oil collection and the exposure to high temperatures. During the operation of the plate 149 assembly under a normal range of motor operating conditions, the pressures in the stage chamber normally remain within a range and at a level, which prevent the vapourized vapors from entering the conduit. return of the oil 164. However, the gas pressure in the gas in the stage chamber 161 a, must rise above a set point pressure, and then a conventional vent valve (not shown in the Figures) is provided. 15 and 16) which may be associated with the bend 163 and which opens to release the pressure in the chamber of the platen 161 A. When the gas pressure falls below a set point pressure, the vent valve is closed . Particularly under starting conditions and initial operation (cold engine), and under certain other conditions and operating situations, when the volatile particles tend to collect in the engine oil, the chamber of stage 161 A, can, if desired, to be regulated so that it is ventilated continuously and so that it is maintained in atmospheric atmospheric pressures by means of process controls (conventional, not detailed), which are associated with the ventilation valve, to maintain in this way the chamber of the stage 161 A at ambient (atmospheric) pressure under said operating conditions. By maintaining the atmospheric pressure in the chamber of the stage 161 A, a maximum pressure difference between the pressure of the oil entering the chamber of the stage 161 A and the pressure of the chamber of the stage 161 A is achieved. said difference in maximum pressure improves and maximizes the removal of volatile particles from the oil that is being processed in the platen assembly. The filtered oil that enters the plate 149 assembly from the filter assembly 121 is first loaded into the stage 161 A chamber. The location of the oil or oil charge that • 10 enters the chamber 161 A, is preferably above and in a vertical space ratio with the region of the top central apex surface of the dome-shaped stage 165. Since, as indicated above, the filtered oil which enters is preferential and normally pressurized to a pressure that is within of the range from about 25 to about 100 psig, as charged to the stage 161 A chamber, this oil • already charged also experiences an immediate pressure drop when entering chamber 161 A. As a result, it is believed that at least some of the volatile particles in the filtered oil entering, will be evaporated or vaporized immediately therein in the chamber of the stage 161 A. Therefore, the vaporization occurs both before and during the contraction of the filtered oil as a thin film with the regions of the surface of the stage 165 in the chamber 161 TO.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the assembly of the plate 149 can be configured in various ways. The total volume of the chamber of the stage 161A and the space in the chamber of the stage 161 A between the closest entrance place (s) of the filtered oil in the chamber 161 a, which is located on the surface region of the top central vertex of plate 165, can be fixed and selected before or during the manufacture of the plate 149 assembly. Currently, in the plate chamber 161 A, a space distance between the filtrate and the filtered oil and the region of the upper central surface of the plate 165, is preferably and conveniently within the range of from about 0.5 to about 1 inch, but if desired, other space distances may be used. As indicated above, to improve the removal of volatile particles from the filtered oil found in the stage chamber, it is now preferable to charge the filtered oil to the stage chamber in the form of an aerosol. Other modalities and equivalent and additional variations will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims (20)

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S Having described the present invention, it is considered as a novelty and, therefore, the content of the following CLAIMS is claimed as property:

1 . A process for the rehabilitation of oil that includes the steps of: (a) loading continuously and sequentially contaminated oil in a range of flow within the range of < approximately 4 to approximately 10 gallons per hour and in a pressure within the range of , approximately 20 to approximately 100 psi a : a zone of the filter; (b) continuously and sequentially filtering said contaminated oil in said filter zone to separate therefrom, particulates having particle sizes above from about 1 to about - approximately 5 microns; (c) deposit continuously and sequentially said filtered oil on a region of the upper central surface '- of a plate generally configured in a dome shape, so that a thin film of said filtered oil is formed in said plate and flows generally outwards and downwards radially on the surfaces of said plate, while said plate is heated to a temperature within the range - from about 160 to about • 200 ° F, so that the volatile particles are separated from said thin film; and (d) continuously and sequentially collecting said separate volatile particles in a chamber that exists on said surfaces of the stage, but below said area of the filter, while oil is collected in said chamber. • 10 concurrent form of said thin film from the lower peripheral regions of said plate.

2. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said plate is symmetric in shape relative to the axis that extends vertically therethrough, and wherein said plate has a diameter of the dome within the range from about 3 to 9 inches;

3. "The process as described in Claim 1, 20 further characterized in that said collected oil is continuously returned to an internally operating combustion engine to be used again in the lubrication of the engine.

4. The process as described in Claim 1, 25 further characterized in that said collected volatile particles are vented from said chamber, provided that the gas pressure in said chamber exceeds a previously set value.

5. The process as described in claim 1, further characterized in that said collected volatile particles are transported from said chamber to the intake manifold of an internal operation combustion engine.

6. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said chamber is vented to the atmosphere and said filtered oil, before being deposited in said region of the upper central surface, is charged in said chamber in a location that generally it is above and in a vertical space relation to said region of the upper central surface, and said chamber is maintained concurrently at said temperature, so that said filtered oil upon being charged, experiences an immediate pressure drop, whereby at less some volatile particles in said filtered oil are evaporated therefrom in said chamber, both before and during the contact of said filtered oil with said regions of the surface of the stage.

7. The process as described in Claim 6, further characterized in that said filtered oil has a pressure within the range of from about 25 to about 100 psig, at the moment of being loaded into said chamber.

8. The process as described in Claim 6, further characterized in that the distance between said location and said region of the upper central surface is within the range of from about 0.5 to 1 inch.

9. The process as described in claim 6, further characterized in that said filtered oil is loaded in said chamber as an aerosol configured in a conical shape, wherein the axis of said conical configuration generally coincides with the apex of said region of the upper central surface, wherein the surface area of said filtered oil loaded in said chamber, is maximized before said oil is deposited in said region of the upper central surface.

10. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that the diameter of said conical configuration in said region of the upper central surface of said plate is less than about 13 inches.

11. The process as described in Claim 9, further characterized in that said dome shaped plate generally has a spherical configuration.

12. The process as described in claim 1, further characterized in that said stage configured as a dome, generally has defined therein, a plurality of elevations similar to concentric summits of small weight relative to the radially adjacent adjacent portions of said configured stage. in the form of a dome, wherein said oil film, when flowing on said dome-shaped stage, undergoes at least two cycles of alternation, being thickened and thinned before it reaches the perimeter of said stage configured in the form of a dome , thus increasing the opportunities for the volatile particles to be separated from said oil during the residence of said oil in said dome-shaped stage.

13. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said oil which is collected along said peripheral regions of said thin film, is directed in a preliminary manner to flow diagonally downward from said perimeter of the stage to a central location that is generally below and is generally located relative to said plate, to thereby minimize the time of oil collection.

14. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said filtration is carried out in a filter medium that provides three adjacent and successive stages of filtration, eliminating filtration in the first stage, particles of said oil less than one. range of size from approximately 15 to 30 microns, eliminating the filtration in the second stage, particles of said oil smaller than a size range from approximately 8 to 12 microns, and eliminating the filtration in the third stage, particles of said oil Minor to a size range of from about 1 to 3 microns.

15. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said filtration is carried out in a filter medium which provides five adjacent and successive filtration stages, eliminating the filtration in the first stage, particles of said oil less than one. range of size from approximately 35 to 40 microns, eliminating the filtration in the second stage, particles of said oil smaller than a size range from approximately 20 to 35 microns, eliminating filtration in the third stage, particles of said oil minor to a size range of from about 10 to 20 microns, eliminating filtration in the fourth stage, particles of said oil less than a size range of from about 5 to 10 hours, and eliminating filtration in the fifth stage, particles of said oil less than a size range of from about 1 to 5 microns.

16. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said dome-shaped stage is comprised of a cast aluminum body, wherein a conductive means similar to a cable that can be heated is incorporated in said body. electrically isolated resistance, which is electrically energetic and extends in a spiral.

17. The process as described in claim 1, further characterized in that said plate shaped dome-shaped, is comprised of a steel plate formed, on whose portions of the surface of the bottom part, a similar conductive medium is fixed to a cable that can be heated based on electrically isolated resistance, which is electrically energized and extends in a spiral.

18. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said platen temperature is maintained at from about 180 ° F to 190 ° F.

19. The process as described in Claim 1, further characterized in that said flow range is maintained at approximately 6 gallons per hour.

20. An apparatus for removing volatile particles from motor oil, which comprises in combination: (a) a cover having generally cylindrical side wall portions a bottom part plate and a top plate which together define an interior cavity; (b) a generally symmetrical dome-shaped stage mounted transversely in said cavity, for splitting said cavity in an upper chamber and a lower chamber with said generally symmetrical dome-shaped stage oriented upward centrally in said chamber. upper chamber, including mounting means therein, said stage having a generally symmetrical dome shaped apertures defined peripherally therein, so that the oil can flow from said upper surface of the dome-shaped stage generally symmetric down to said lower chamber; said top plate having an oil inlet orifice means for the oil to enter said plate in a generally symmetrical dome shape; said plate being configured in the form of a dome • generally symmetrical, heating means ^ Electrical controlled thermostatically associated in it; said plate of the bottom part having an inner surface tapering progressively outward in said * lower chamber and, having an outlet orifice means of central oil defined therein; and a steam outlet orifice means in said top plate, wherein the oil charged in said oil outlet orifice means, forms a thin film in said generally shaped dome-shaped stage, which flows over said oil orifice. portions of the upper surface of the plate configured in a generally symmetrical dome shape, passes through said peripheral openings, enters said lower chamber and flows on said portions of the conical tapered surface to said means of the oil outlet . SUMMARY The apparatus and methods for the removal of the improved lubricant oil contaminant from 5 engines, which employ gravity to achieve a desired range of oil flow, are provided. The present invention is adapted for use with the existing engine oil lubrication system and continuously processes a side stream which, after processing, is returned to the engine oil. During the • G 10 processing, the oil is first filtered in the structure of the filter assembly (121) and then drained and deposited on the upper portion of the central surface of a hot dome plate (165) on which, the oil forms a thin film from which the volatile impurities that are quickly separated are 15 bubbles relatively slowly in a gaseous state. The gas is vented through the upper outlet (169) and the dst duct (171) while the recovered rehabilitated oil is collected on the bottom platform (163) and recycled through the return duct (164).