I am trying to track wear particles in two large open gear sets that are lubed with Lubriplate spray. They have repetitive cast off and replenishment of the lubricant, so I don't think I will be able to rely on counts.

What I am wondering is, will I be able to get a decent trend of wear from the particle size alone?

Thanks,

Danny,
Here's a report I use. This will trend wear particle size but 'alone' or using this as a 'stand-alone' or suppliment; as a suppliment it is good. Doug Holmes of PredictUSA.com may be able to help. My file size is too large; send me an E-mail.

Or:
Have a look at a section cut from a report. Need more?

DanWearPar.doc (84 Kb, 35 downloads) Ware Par Trend

Sam,

Thanks for the information.

I'm not sure I understand your thoughts on the value of trending wear particle size alone. The concentration of wear particles is not valid in this case because of periodic cast-off and replinishment of the lubricant.

Thanks again,

Danny

Danny,
Here is a good description of what I think you are looking for.
http://www.noria.com/learning_center/category_article.a...ookgroup=OilAnalysis

Danny,

If they are open gear sets that are spray lubed, then would not a visual inspection of tooth profile and contact wear along with some backlash measurements work? This is basically what we have to do on a paper machine with many gears and a central lube system. When we have a spike in the iron count, it is impossible to tell which on of the 100+ gears is the biggest contributor. We rely on vibration analysis then.

Gary B

As stated by another, physical measurements are a more accurate measure of residual life. If you wish to persue oil analysis techniques, I can think of two methods.
The ratio of small to large particles is a good indicator of abnormal wear (more large particles is more severe wear). You could use Direct read ferrography do this, but it is expensive equipment. Perhaps try a manual method to see if it works for you.
The other method is to use a ferrous particle quantifier (PQ for example) these typically are more sensitive to large particles.
Good luck
Paul Rand