Analysis of Ferrographic Engine Wear Data Using Quality Control Techniques
Abstract
It is generally accepted that wear is the leading factor in engine and gear failure. There are many types of wear, some of which are: adhesion, abrasion, corrosion, erosion, fretting, cavitation, fatigue, melting, ablution and delamination. Each of these results in its characteristic form of wear particle, the identification of which is sometimes difficult. There are many methods for identifying these particles and for monitoring their development over time. One such method is ferrography. Ferrography is a technique developed by Seifert and Wescott for separating wear particles from the lubricant matrix and depositing these on a glass slide, arranged or sorted by particle size. This slide is then examined microscopically. An indirect measure of wear is obtained by measuring the amount of light which is transmitted through the glass slide, subject to the amount of particles which have been deposited. The transmittance is reported as the percentage of the area within the field of view which is covered by the deposited particles. Measurements are made in areas on the slide corresponding to the large particles and to the small particles. The two measurements are called by workers in the field, A sub L and A sub S respectively. The particles are deposited by dripping the engine or transmission oil onto an inclined glass slide which is immersed in a magnetic field. The larger particles are thus deposited first and the smallest particles, last.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADP001591
Entities
People
- Edward A. Saibel
- Robert L. Launer
Organizations
- Army Research Office