In this issue of Logging-on, we examine the testing of engine, transmission and hydraulic oils.
In this first issue of October, Case gave us an overview of the importance of machine fluid testing. In this issue we focus on engine oil and hydraulic/transmission oils.
- Engine oil: Engine oil samples are analysed for materials that indicate a variety of problems. Some of the main aspects looked for is coolant or fuel leaking into the system. A high level of silica in a sample could indicate the failure of an air filter or one of the intake components. The testing procedure can also identify types of metals found in the oil. Component wear will always be evident in the testing results due to the nature of combustion engines, but identifying what type of metal is found helps to identify the area and/or component where any potential issues may be occurring. Trend analysis is the best indicator when it comes to oil analysis. A fleet manager can see that a machine is typically tracking at a certain level. If there is all of a sudden a spike in fuel ingestion or some other irregularity in the data, that is a clear indicator that there’s a problem.
- Transmission and hydraulic oil: Oil sample analysis primarily looks for the presence of wear metals—namely copper, bronze and other soft metals—as well as dirt in the drive lines. Identifying certain types of metals can help identify damaged components within the system. If dirt is found it is a clear indication of a leak in a hydraulic cylinder. If this is not addressed, it can lead to problems such as filter plugging, valve plugging and reduced hydraulic response. Analysing the hydraulic oil can determine whether the issue is being caused by a relatively cheap component, like a seal on a cylinder, or by a more expensive component like a hydraulic pump. Moisture presence is critical because when a machine is shut down; as it cools it can draw in condensation. A typical transmission doesn't get hot enough to burn that moisture off; therefore corrosion can be an issue inside the transmission if the proper fluid is not used. Source: http://casece.com/en_us/News/Pages/Fluid-Analysis-Trends-Upward-in-Construction-Fleet-Management.aspx