| abstract |
A process and an apparatus for lubricating with multiple phases of lubricants and a multiphase lubricant, are described. Lubricants of different phases (10 and 12) are used in a process of lubricating one or more operating components (22a or 22b) which areexposed to an operating condition change. Under a condition at which the lubricants are at least partially miscible, the phases combine (18a or 18b) to provide a lubricant (17a or 17b) of an improved physical property, such as viscosity. Typically the lubricants are miscible at an elevated temperature and immiscible at lower temperatures. A density difference between the phases is preferred for ease of separation. A combination of a hydrocarbon oil and a polyalkylene glycol such as polypropylene glycol is preferred. |