Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/431954
For systems without permanently mounted filters or even those that are peri- odically decontaminated with a filter cart, the particle count can help monitor the size of the contaminants found in the machine. This test can ensure that the seals and breathers are doing their jobs. If the particle counts are increasing and the metal amounts are relatively unchanged, you can be fairly confident that dirt is the contami- nant causing the increase. One of the most common mistakes when using a particle counter is failing to properly agitate the sample prior to intro- ducing it to the machine. Remember, particles settle to the bottom of the sample bottle and must be agitated to resuspend them. Otherwise, you cannot ensure that you are getting representative information. The ASTM D7647 standard outlines some of the criteria for agitation with the use of optical particle counters. Depending on the sample volume and the viscosity of the fluid, the agitation time may range from only a couple of minutes to as much as 10 minutes. This is why it is important to leave headspace or ullage in the sample bottle. While it is possible to agitate or shake a sample by hand, if you have a number of samples to run through the machine, this could take a long time. A paint shaker can make the process easier. Simply mount a sample bottle to the paint shaker, throw the switch and walk away for a couple of minutes. The shaker will resuspend the particles so you can be sure that you are getting accurate results from which to draw conclusions. It no longer is uncommon to see a particle counter in a lube room. Decades ago, this technology was reserved only for laboratories. Of course, using a lab to run a particle count test is perfectly acceptable, but you can improve your turnaround time by performing this test onsite. The benefits of particle counters are truly limitless as long as you are conscious of what you are doing and understand the results. These devices have come a long way over the past decade in both their accuracy and affordability. There are now many makes and models available that can work well, provided they are handled with care. A particle counter can be a great tool in any lube technician's arsenal. If you haven't explored the possibility of purchasing one, you should. About the Author Wes Cash is a senior technical consultant with Noria Corporation. He is a mechanical engineer who holds a Machine Lubrication Technician (MLT) Level II certification and a Machine Lubricant Analyst (ML A) Level III certification through the International Council for Machinery Lubrication (ICML). Contact Wes at wcash@noria.com. ML www.machinerylubrication.com | November - December 2014 | 45 SGS Herguth leads the industry in high quality innovative condition monitoring analysis for industrial users. If a machine contains oil, grease or operates with fuel SGS Herguth is involved with condition monitoring somewhere on the globe. With 28 condition monitoring laboratories around the world we are the leaders in industry. SGS Herguth provides custom or tailored testing packages and special analytical services designed for your plant or application. 1-800-OIL-LABS www.sgsherguth.com ContaCt us today for all your testing needs! ContaCt us today for all your testing needs! 52% of lubrication professionals say their plant utilizes a particle counter, based on a recent survey at MachineryLubrication.com 8 Proactive Maintenance Uses for Particle Counting 1. Routinely verify that in-service oils are within targeted cleanliness levels. 2. Check the cleanliness of new oil deliveries. 3. Quickly identify failed or defective filters. 4. Confirm that seals and breathers are effectively excluding contaminants. 5. Confirm that systems are properly cleaned and flushed after repair. 6. Confirm that new hydraulic system are cleaned and flushed before use (roll-off cleanliness). 7. Identify the improper use of dirty top-up containers and poor maintenance practices. 8. Identify the need and timing for portable filtration systems.