Abstract: Improved oil reconditioning systems and methods are disclosed. One preferred system provides an oil purifier for an internal combustion engine for separating contaminants in an oil stream from the oil. The system may include a housing, an oil distributor, and a heating element. The housing may enclose a platen having an evaporation surface. The oil distributor may also be located in the housing and may be configured to receive an incoming oil stream. The oil distributor may have a discharge manifold for transforming the oil stream into a mist. The mist may be directed toward, and distributed over, at least a portion of the evaporation surface. The heating element may be in thermal communication with the platen. The evaporation surface may be heated to a temperature sufficient to volatilize the contaminants, resulting in a purified liquid oil which may be collected and reused with the engine.

Abstract: Apparatus and process for improved contaminant removal from engine lubricating oil are provided. 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 and then is deposited to form a thin film upon upper internal surface regions of a heated, generally conically configured platen whose average transverse internal diameter generally decreases with increasing downward distance from said upper internal surface regions. The platen internal surface regions preferably have a plurality of slope changes. Oil so deposited on the platen internal surface regions forms a thin film that flows downwards and preferably experiences a variable flow rate and variable film thickness.

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 and then drained and deposited upon the upper central surface portions of a heated dome whereon the oil forms a thin film from which relatively low boiling volatile impurities (especially water) are rapidly separated in a gaseous state. The gas is vented through a pressure relief valve to the manifold while the recovered reconditioned oil is collected and recycled.