Sensing the future

摘要

The analysis of machinery lubricants is considered an effective way of gathering engineering intelligence, but the delay between sampling and reporting needs to be addressed. The core philosophy behind condition monitoring is the ability to detect a point of potential failure as early as possible and then take steps to either control the rogue variable or plan a cost-effective repair before failure occurs; any delay between sampling and action reduces effectiveness. In contrast to the brisk pace of development seen in vibration analysis, where sensors with built-in accelerometers are now available or where manual readings can be assessed via onboard diagnostics software, advances in sensor technology for monitoring oil condition have been more gradual.