Particle Count - Lubricating Oil Analysis
Fluid cleanliness is critical in hydraulic and other systems where high fluid pressure and velocity are involved. Excessive fluid particulate contamination is a major cause of failure of hydraulic pumps, motors, valves, pressure regulators, and fluid controls. Failure due to excessive particulate contamination is normally segregated into three areas:
• Performance degradation
• Intermittent failure
• Catastrophic failure
Particle count measurements allow the user to monitor hydraulic system contamination levels on a scheduled basis. Scheduled analysis of hydraulic fluid to include particle count is recommended by most equipment and hydraulic component manufacturers.
Cause
Water contamination
Machining burrs
Filling techniques
Oil oxidation
Contaminated new oil
Worn wiper seals
System generated debris
Built in contamination
Defective breather
Effect
Performance degradation
Intermittent failure
Wear
Plugging
Leakage
Pressure overshoot
Momentary hesitation
System failure
Solution
Filter new oil
Change hydraulic fluid
Inspect/replace filters
Check particle sizes
System flushing at high pressure
Check air breather
Evaluate equipment vs. design
Evaluate operating conditions
Evaluate for proper service techniques
