Gearboxes undergo high stress operations from torque and intermittent operation. On average, gear oil is more viscous, the oil additives specifically protect from a high load environment, water contamination is common, and wear particles are often greater in number than in other equipment. Lastly, oil samples from gearboxes are often taken from a drain, therefore we work with our customers on optimal sampling procedure to produce oil samples that are representative of the lubricant contacting the gears.
Routine Testing for Gearboxes
Emission Spectroscopy Elemental Oil Analysis
- MRT uses the Rotrode Spectrometer
- We closely track changes in unwanted
particles over time - Particle size detection down to 3 microns
Viscosity
- We measure viscosity and viscosity index
- At 40° C for industrial oils and 100° C for engine oils
- Quantify severity of oil degradation and contamination
Neutralization Number
- We measure Total Acid Number (TAN) and Total Base Number (TBN)
- TAN detects oxidation and degradation and TBN
detects remaining additives
Karl Fischer Water Titration
- Water is the most common and arguably the most damaging oil contaminant
- We detect water down to 4 ppm in any state
Direct Read Ferrography
- Measure cleanliness by counting large and small
magnetic particles - Total amount and relationship of small to large
particles can indicate issues with machinery