ISO Particle Count

Overview

Widely regarded as an important advanced test for oil analysis, it is undeniable that a wide array of historical and potential problems can be quickly be determined by monitoring the number and size-distribution of wear particles and contaminants in a used oil sample. This test cannot be preformed on engine oils or other dark lubricants that do not pass transmitted light.

Fluid cleanliness is critical to a lubricating system’s success. When setting goals for keeping your industrial fluids clean, routine particle counting is a crucial step in achieving the cleanest fluid possible. The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) particle count reports size ranges and concentrations of particulate found in industrial fluids. Fluid Life reports the ISO Code cleanliness in the latest >4/>6/>14 micron format.

A particle count can be an early indicator of an array of potential problems that may exist and so is often an essential part of a proactive extra testing program. Detailed scale photographs are available which can assist the maintenance expert in determining the nature and quantity of particulate matter within the system.

The ISO Particle Count is an excellent tool for “flowchart diagnosis” of many maintenance problems. It can also be an indicator or when positive things are happening within a system, such as successful corrective maintenance.

Applications

The ISO Particle Count can be used to monitor:

• Filter Type Effectiveness
• Seal Performance
• Breather Condition
• Lubricant Storage Cleanliness
• Atmospheric Contamination
• Defective Filtering Devices
• System Flushing
• Target Cleanliness Levels
• Filter Cart Usage
• Correct Drain Interval

Benefits

The ISO Particle Count can also provide:

• An excellent general indicator of component condition
• A trigger for other advanced testing, such as SEM-EDS or Analytical Ferrography
• A powerful diagnostic tool for your maintenance program
• An essential addition to your conventional sampling program
• Excellent return on your oil analysis investment

Maintenance Solutions

Once a maintenance technician has the results from the lab to determine the ISO Particle Count within a component, a course of action can be taken such as:

• Adjusting or optimizing oil change intervals
• Modifying their maintenance schedule
• Doing further testing to determine root cause of contamination

Additional Resources

PDF: Understanding ISO Particle Counts