Particle Count - Oil Analysis

Light Scattering Particle Quantification. The cleanliness of oil and hydraulic systems is critical; particles interact with moving surfaces and accelerate wear. If the level of these particles are not monitored, loss of operating efficiency and eventual breakdown is more likely. The normal range of particle sizing is from 4 to 100 µm. Sizing and counting of particulate contamination can be measured by using light obscuration method or on a filter using an optical microscope with specialised software for the analysis.  There is also the possibility of diluting the samples prior to their analysis and with the usage of specific solvents, minimise the interference of soft particles and low levels of water on the final results. The instrumentation is calibrated following ISO 11171 and the results are reported according to cleanliness codes ISO 4406, NAS 1638 and SAE 4059.