New Generation of Smart Sensors Available to Purchase

Advanced warning from arrays of on-line sensors to trigger more in-depth laboratory testing is now possible because the development phase of “smart” sensors has matured. There has been a need to develop reliable, affordable on-line instrumentation (sensors) that provides information on both lubricant and machinery condition (wear) supports critical systems requirements, addresses remote applications that are difficult to physically sample routinely, and that reduces manpower needs. The monitoring of specific oil related parameters like, alkalinity, acidity, and contaminants such as ferrous and non-ferrous debris, water, coolant and soot, with no human involvement, will be reviewed in this paper. Sensor technology includes Magnetometry and TAN Delta. They have been evaluated on test rig and on-engine trials to assess the improvement of sensitivity, insulation, electronics, connectors, and specialised software with interpretive algorithms to suit specific applications. Sensors will supplant some, but not all routine testing, thereby changing the Oil Analysis landscape.