Using oil sight glass level indicators
Understanding Oil Sight Glasses in Industrial Applications
Oil sight glasses are an essential tool for safely monitoring lubrication levels and conditions in industrial systems. Rather than opening tanks or vessels—which can be hazardous—an oil sight glass provides a clear, real-time view of the fluid inside. This makes them invaluable across industries such as manufacturing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and chemical processing.
In this blog, BM Engineering explores the types of oil sight glasses available, how they work, and why they are a vital part of efficient and safe operations.
What is an Oil Sight Glass?
A sight glass is a transparent device that allows operators to visually monitor the liquid level within a tank, pipe, or reservoir. Specifically, oil sight glasses make it possible to track both the quantity and quality of lubricants in real time.
Key things an oil sight glass can show you:
-
Oil levels – ensuring machinery is running with sufficient lubrication.
-
Oil condition – including colour, clarity, and contamination.
-
Water accumulation – helping detect moisture ingress before it causes damage.
This quick, non-invasive monitoring tool is a vital safety feature that prevents unnecessary exposure to hazardous substances.
Types of Oil Sight Glasses
Oil sight glasses are available in different materials such as plastic, acrylic, and glass, designed to suit various pressures and fluids. The two most common types are:
Columnar Sight Glasses
Columnar sight glasses are elongated tubes, often mounted vertically on an oil-bathed component. They clearly show fluctuations in oil levels and are recommended where significant changes in fluid volume are expected.
Bullseye Sight Glasses
Bullseye sight glasses are circular windows, installed into ports just above the oil level inside a reservoir. They allow operators to instantly see the lubricant condition. Advanced 3D bullseye sight glasses provide even greater visibility for critical applications.
How Does an Oil Sight Glass Work?
Once installed, a sight glass functions as a window into the process. It provides a direct view of the lubricant inside tanks, vessels, or pipes without disturbing the system. For precise measurements, oil level indicators can also be used in combination with sight glasses.
This simple but effective technology helps ensure systems remain safe, efficient, and reliable.
BM Engineering – Trusted UK Sight Glass Suppliers
At BM Engineering, we supply a wide range of industrial sight glasses from leading manufacturers, including INOXPA and Valsteam ADCA.
With over 20 years of experience, our family-run business is a trusted partner for process industries across the UK. Alongside sight glasses, we also stock industrial valves, actuated valve packages, and process instrumentation to support safe and efficient operations.
Order Oil Sight Glasses Today
Sight glasses may be a small component, but they play a big role in protecting your equipment and ensuring smooth operations. BM Engineering makes it easy to source high-quality oil sight glasses for your industry.
🛒 Browse our range of sight glasses and process equipment
📞 Contact us for personalised advice and support
Stay Connected
