Fuel and oil come under the scope: Houston METRO fluids analysis program saves USD1 million a year

摘要

In Houston, TX, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) has worked for over 20 years proving an ounce of prevention is worth far more than a pound of cure. As it turns out, its careful inspection of every fluid running through its vehicles is good for nearly USD1 million a year in savings. METRO'S operations and maintenance department developed its fluids analysis system (FAS) to monitor and correct vehicle equipment defects caused by excessive wear and fluid contamination. Early identification and corrective action are key elements in preventing catastrophic failures and costly repairs. The analysis system also provides for the testing of bulk fluid deliveries to ensure product quality and contract compliance. The program also troubleshoots the authority recover about USD130,000 in warranty settlements due to defective air filters, as well as avoid almost 30 major engine failures, which could have cost nearly USD300,000.