Molecular Condition Monitoring in the Commercial World: Objectives and Applications of FT-IR Analysis,

Abstract : Chemical and physical analysis of lubricants and hydraulic fluids is a common tool employed in equipment condition monitoring programs. Periodically checking these fluids for common contaminants and breakdown products allows a fast diagnosis of the general "health" of a machine or component, and thus permits maintenance activities effectively directed or deferred as necessary. A variety of different wet chemical and spectroscopic tests have been developed and applied to meet these needs. Condition monitoring of engine oils is perhaps the most common, with spectroscopic wear metal analysis complimented by molecular analysis by Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR). Much information has been presented in the past towards applying FT-IR analysis to engine lubricant condition monitoring. However, analysis of engine lubricants may only be a part of or entirely unrelated to, other condition monitoring operations. Here, we will present additional information, examples, and statistical analysis of non-engine lubricants and machinery enrolled in commercial condition monitoring programs.