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[derekwarner]

The image below is some of the range of quartz tube lens model steam lubricators by Winfried Niggle from Germany

I have purchased an example with a fixed venturi orifice which is the unit on the far left [yet to be commissioned], however as can be seen.....on the far right, different models have a needle valve to regulate the orifice size & hence the amount of steam oil injected into the steam path

How do you come to a first setting point?.....fill the lubricator....open the needle valve fully........watch the level of steam oil drop down ....then think.....that is a waste of oil........the reduce the setting?

From memory kno3 has the identical unit to me....not sure if Bernhard or KBIO have any comment to make here

The last thing we want is to starve the engine of the optimal amount of steam oil, conversely steam oil is expensive... any thoughts appreciated  ....Derek

[kno3]

Derek, I have the Niggel lubricator with regulating valve. I usually open it 1-2 turns. I've tested the oil output once by watching the engine discharde with the condenser removed.
The oil contents of the glass lubricator is enough for several runs.
Of course the valve position and oil consumption also depends of the steam oil's viscosity. I use the rather viscous Regner steam oil.

[KBIO]

Hello Derek!  
We could write a book on our engine lubrication! Everybody having his own idea or experience!I have seen lubricators w/ more cc's than the engine itself.
I personally use the minimum of oil. Thick oil will lubricate at high temp (our +/- 100°C) and will not emulsify during the run. I agree w/ KNO, 1/2 turn is plenty enough for two runs or more depending of the valve . Too much oil will make a "mayonaise"in the drawers. I'd rather run w/ no oil than having too much ; Oil does not vaporize and finally make a mess if too much!
I have a friend who opens his top'engine and drop a couple of drops of oil and run like this for 40 min. I never seen him having any problem.
When finished sailing, I pour some thin oil (sewing machine) in, the inlet and run the engine with air untill clean oil comes out. I, then, can store my engine for the winter.
I like Nigel's or Stuart or any lubricator which can be adjusted.
But some people will do differently!
Regards!