On the marine gas turbine lube oil system shown in the illustration, air and oil are separated in the air/oil separator mainly by the use of __________. Illustration GT-0024

Correct Answer: Option B — centrifugal force

Air/oil separators utilize centrifugal force to separate oil droplets from the air stream. The mixture enters a spinning chamber where the heavier oil particles are thrown against the outer walls, coalescing and draining back to the sump, while the cleaned air is vented overboard or to the inlet.