|
|
 |
 |
Checking such things as viscosity, viscosity index, acid or base number, and presence of the correct additives tests the condition of the lubricant. This tells us whether the lubricant can continue to meet the requirements of the machine or should be changed.
Cleanliness checks look at the number and size of particles in the lubricant, and the presence of water, fuel or other contaminates. Particles in the oil can contribute to accelerated wear while water and other contaminates may cause corrosion, foaming and other problems.
The machine's condition is assessed by wear particle analysis. Looking at the wear particles under a microscope, the size, shape and color of the particle indicate the type of metal and what mechanism produced it. Knowing this combined with knowledge of the machine allows the analyst to tell where in the machine the particle originated and how it was produced. This knowledge can then be used to plan actions to resolve the problem. |
|
 |
|
|
