Question 385Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is B) inspect the purifier for separated foreign matter. The key to determining the extent of lube oil system contamination is to inspect the purifier, as this is where any separated foreign matter would collect. By observing the purifier, you can assess the level of contamination in the lube oil system. The other options, while potentially useful, do not directly evaluate the level of contamination in the same way as inspecting the purifier. Observing the oil flow in sight glasses (A) or monitoring bearing temperatures (C) and pump discharge pressure (D) can provide indications of issues, but they do not specifically address the extent of contamination. Inspecting the purifier is the most direct way to assess the level of lube oil system contamination.