![]() ![]() The Light Blockage Method is the most commonly used particle counting test. Furthermore, human error and variability can contribute to inaccurate readings and low test precision. It also is important to note that this test is extremely laborintensive and expensive. In addition, agglomerated particles, particle coincidence (excessively high particle counts that prevent accurate detection by the instrument), sometimes emulsified water and even air bubbles can contribute to false readings. There is, however, no precision statement for the test, so the accuracy of the measurements is unknown. ![]() The Filter & Count Method is considered to be the most accurate method of particle counting because the test is not normally affected by fluid color, air or water. After the sample has passed through the filter, the particles on the filter patch are counted and measured under a microscope. Oil samples pass through a fine-patch filter that captures particles that are greater than four microns (> 4μ) in size. Particle counting using the Filter & Count Method is conducted exactly how it sounds. Thus, the results of these tests were used as the foundation for the discoveries detailed in this article. The Filter & Count (ISO 4407) and Light Blockage or Extinction (ISO 11500) tests are the most widely used methods of particle counting. Oil cleanliness is typically determined by particle counting. To this end, maintenance professionals are implementing oil analysis programs with the desire to gain accurate readings on the cleanliness of their oil to support oil suitability decisions. ![]() There are a number of factors that can impact a lubricant’s cleanliness, most notably contamination and harsh operating conditions, such as extremely high temperatures, pressures and operating speeds. Oil cleanliness can be defined as a measure of the level of dirt, other insoluble or hard particles in fresh or in-service oil. Maintenance professionals can then make better oil suitability decisions, garner a stronger return on their lubricant investment and enhance their equipment performance. But, by incorporating innovative methods to address sources of errors- including air entrainment, water content, and additive effects-particle counting precision and accuracy can be greatly improved. Today’s most commonly used particle counting tests for determining oil cleanliness-Filter & Count Method Light Blockage Method-too often yield inaccurate and inconsistent results.Īs detailed in this article, the inconsistency and lack of precision with these current practices can lead companies to waste considerable amounts of money and time developing maintenance plans based on inaccurate and unreliable information. There is, however, something that many of them do not know. It’s no mystery to Maintenance professionals that clean oil promotes enhanced equipment performance and reliability. That can cost your company considerably in tearms of time and money. Inaccurate, unreliable partical counting can hamper your ability to make smart oil suitability decisions. ![]()
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