Ölzustandprüfung

Ölzustandprüfung, also known as oil condition monitoring, is a diagnostic process used to assess the health and performance of lubricating oils and the equipment they lubricate. This proactive maintenance strategy involves regularly sampling and analyzing oil to detect early signs of degradation or contamination. By understanding the condition of the oil, potential mechanical issues within machinery can be identified before they lead to catastrophic failures, costly downtime, and extensive repairs.

The analysis typically examines various parameters. These include viscosity, which indicates the oil's resistance to flow and can change due to temperature, shear, or contamination. Oxidation and degradation products are measured to assess the oil's remaining useful life. Water content is crucial as excess moisture can lead to corrosion and reduced lubrication effectiveness. Particulate contamination, from wear debris or external sources, is also identified. Wear metals analysis can pinpoint specific components experiencing abnormal wear.

Common testing methods include spectroscopy, chromatography, and various physical tests. The results of these tests are compared against baseline data or established limits. Deviations suggest the need for oil changes, filter replacements, or investigations into the machinery itself. Ölzustandprüfung is widely applied in industries such as manufacturing, power generation, transportation, and mining, contributing significantly to operational efficiency and asset longevity.