Understanding Particle Counting in High Viscosity Fluids
In industries where high performance machinery and lubricants are critical, fluid cleanliness is not just a preference, it’s a necessity. Contamination by solid particles in hydraulic and lubricating fluids can lead to equipment wear, system inefficiencies, and even failure. When working with high viscosity fluids, such as heavy-duty hydraulic oils, the challenge of detecting contamination becomes even more complex. That’s where advanced technology, like the AvCount High Viscosity (HV) Particle Counter, becomes essential.
What is Particle Contamination?
Particle contamination refers to the presence of unwanted solid particles in a fluid system. These can originate from various sources: metal wear, external dirt ingress, seal degradation, or even as by products of fluid degradation. In hydraulic systems, even microscopic particles can damage sensitive components such as valves and pumps, leading to reduced performance and costly downtime.
Why Particle Counting Matters
Routine particle counting is a vital part of condition monitoring in maintenance regimes. By identifying and quantifying contamination, operators can take corrective actions before damage occurs. This is especially critical in systems using high viscosity lubricants or oils, where traditional detection methods may struggle to provide accurate results.
The Challenge with High Viscosity Fluids
High viscosity fluids, such as those with viscosities up to 1500 mm²/s, pose specific challenges for particle counting:
- Slower flow rates affect sampling efficiency
- Increased resistance can interfere with sensor accuracy
- Air bubbles are harder to separate, leading to false readings
Introducing the AvCountHV Particle Counter
The AvCountHV Particle Counter is purpose built to overcome the limitations of traditional laser particle counters when working with thick oils and fluids. It uses a laser obscuration method to deliver rapid, accurate, and repeatable results.
Key features include:
- Accurate analysis of fluids up to 1500 mm²/s at 20°C
- Compliant with international cleanliness codes (ISO 4406, SAE AS4059, NAS 1638)
- User friendly touchscreen interface
- Easy sample introduction for high viscosity fluids
- Ideal for hydraulic fluid and hydraulic oil particle counting
Who is the AvCountHV for?
This cutting edge hydraulic fluid particle counter is ideal for:
- Oil analysis laboratories
- Maintenance teams managing heavy equipment
- Manufacturers of high viscosity lubricants
- Aerospace and defence industries
- Hydraulic system OEMs and service providers
Stay Ahead of Contamination
By investing in reliable particle counting technology, you’re not just protecting your machinery, you’re enhancing operational uptime, reducing costs and ensuring product quality. The AvCountHV Particle Counter is your trusted solution for precise particle counting in even the most demanding high viscosity applications.