The information gained from Oil Analysis trending is similar to a music sheet, they both tell a story. Music may give you words and tunes but oil analysis trends provide insight information into the wellbeing of equipment.
Trend Analysis is the most common method used to establish patterns within data, these patterns can be of significant importance by identify problems early, if left undetected could later lead to catastrophic failures. The trended data also provides us with the ability to apply mathematical techniques to determine future outcomes (Predictions), we are able do this by using the historical data and applying estimations based on previous data and findings, we can even use simular equipment or components to establish predictions.
The importance of trend analysis is often forgotten by many including the oil analysis laboratories, they are so busy analysing data and reporting the results that they simply forget about the music sheets. Techenomics ensure that their major clients receive music sheets by providing specific monthly reports that outline patterns and behaviours of equipment and their internal componentry.
The graph above indicates recent findings of Fine Iron and PQ trending in an upward motion. Three samples back, the oil sample had been flagged as a warning with the PQ rising just above the monitor limit, however with the servicing of the equipment the compartments are filtered, this removes the wear debris held in suspension allowing for the oil to be brought back to a satisfactory and reusable condition. This compartment will need to be monitored closely as the filtration allows for lowered results that interrupt the trending history, we would now expect to see a pattern similar to this.
The graph below demonstrates why limits need to be evaluated time and time again, especially when it comes to changes in locations. Different atmospheric pressures, temperatures, elevation and surroundings will impact equipments performance, it will also impact the conditions and nature of the analysis and the effects on the oil. If you were using limits established in Western Australia where the conditions are hot, dry, humid, dusty and has seasonal rain, then these would not work so well in a country like Germany. Coal mining is different to mineral mining, these changes also need to be taken into account when establishing limits.
-
- So when did you last take a good look at your limits or the limits you have been supplied?
- Can you be sure that they are correct?
(There are a number of ways to establish limits)
- Have you trended your data to see if you can find patterns or similarities in the data?
- Have you got spikes in your results?
- Are you filtering your oil at the service intervals?
- Need more info or require help?
Trending data is crucial in predicting failures, without these trends than data becomes almost useless, yes you can compare the result against the set limits but this only identifies results as an individual number and not patterns of data. Trending is highly recommended especially if you are already experiencing issues with certain machines or compartments.
For further information on trending or establishing new limits, contact Techenomics for assistance.