Fluid Analysis

Superior Sampling Tools & Analysis Parameters

With MTS Fluid Analysis you get the right analysis for servohydraulic test systems and the freedom to conduct the sampling yourself or have it done by an MTS field service engineer.

 

For the best sampling results if you are taking the sample, we recommend following the guidelines found in the sample packaging and using the patented MTS fluid sampling tool. You can then submit your sample, and we’ll register your site information, analyze the sample and email a results report to you.

 

Parameters Designed for Servohydraulic Test Equipment

ISO CLEANLINESS TRENDS

ISO cleanliness measurement provides a summation of contaminant by size, but not by composition or mass. The MTS control limits for ISO cleanliness are specific to servohydraulic test equipment that operates at much higher pressures, and in harsher environments than typical commercial-grade hydraulic systems.

 

CONTAMINANT & WEAR METAL MEASUREMENT

This parameter identifies existence of contaminant by mass and composition, but not by size. The rate and stability of shedding metals is diagnostic and predictive to the health of system subcomponents, such as servovalves. This measurement provides the data necessary to intervene in a purposeful and planned manner.

 

ADDITIVE DEPLETION LEVELS

Additives are protectors that inhibit undesirable changes in the precision hydraulic fluid and the test machine. High-pressure, close-tolerance servovalves operating at higher frequencies can “slice” base oil and additive molecules apart during operation. When additives are depleted, your system has less protection against fluid breakdown and abrupt system failure.

 

WATER CONTENT PERCENTAGE

Water can cause emulsions to form and it can lead to corrosion. More than a trace of water may indicate early warning of a failing heat exchanger or ingestion of water through air breathers. The water volume measurement, when combined with the data gained from other tests, provides an indication of fluid condition.

 

FLUID VISCOSITY & AGE TRENDING

Viscosity is the most important property of the lubricant itself. Changes in viscosity affect the ability to form the essential lubricating film for the test machine and indicate poor fluid condition due to aging. Fluid aging is accelerated by operating at higher temperatures, presence of even trace water, fluid contaminants and additive depletions.

 

VARNISH / SILT / SLUDGE / OXIDATION MEASUREMENT

Operating at persistent elevated temperatures and in the presence of trace water contributes to accelerated fluid breakdown reflected in high oxidation, nitration or suspended silt particulate. MTS Fluid Analysis measures all these elements. The nitration test, which predicts varnish deposit potential, is rarely found in other fluid analysis solutions. The UC (ultracentrifuge) test detects contaminants less than 0.5 microns that can cause premature filter plugging and erratic valve operation. These tests will alert you to the potential formation of sludge, silt, lacquers, and various other hard and soft gummy surface deposits.

MTS Fluid Analysis MTS Hydraulic Fluid Care Guide