ALS Tribology strives to ensure the reliability services offered to clients are at the highest possible standard. Recently there have been a number of improvements made to the particle count in-service condition monitoring program. Laboratories have purchased updated particle count analysis equipment that offers improved precision and accuracy compared to traditional instruments. Particle count testing has been historically associated with an increased uncertainty due to interferences from water, varnish, and suspended liquid additives. Particles may also quickly settle when not continuously mixed. The updated technology addresses all these concerns and also includes increased monitoring of results to ensure the improved accuracy and precision is maintained.
There have also been improvements to the reporting of results to clients. Previously, ALS Tribology reported ≥23 µm and ≥50 µm bin sizes. A year ago, ALS Tribology made the decision to change these bin sizes to the ≥21 µm and ≥38 µm as required by ASTM D7647 for client reporting. To ensure that clients had sufficient time to update in-service trend monitoring programs, all 7 bins were reported simultaneously for one year. Clients were informed of the change at the beginning and end of the year.
These examples demonstrate how ALS Tribology understands that in order to provide a high degree of confidence in the services provided, we must stay current with both technology and regulatory requirements that directly impact our clients. We remain committed to being recognized as the leading asset reliability testing service. Contact ALS Tribology for more information.
Written By:
David Doyle, CLS, OMA I, OMA II
Key Accounts and Special Projects
ALS Tribology