What is the purpose of the air/oil separator?

The primary function of the air/oil separator is to prevent excessive oil loss by managing the oil vapor within the system. It plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the oil lubrication system by separating the oil from the air's vapor, ensuring that only the necessary airflow is released and that the oil is retained for proper lubrication within the gas turbine system. This separation helps maintain optimal oil levels, essential for effective lubrication, cooling, and system efficiency. By effectively preventing oil from venting overboard, the separator contributes to reducing both operational costs and environmental impact by minimizing the loss of lubricating oil. This function is vital in ensuring that the engine operates efficiently and reliably without oil contamination or loss affecting performance.