Contamination Control 2 – Particulates

Particulate contamination is one of the most significant causes of lubricant degradation and equipment failure in industrial applications. Solid particles introduced into lubrication systems—whether from wear debris, external contaminants, or improper maintenance—can accelerate component wear, reduce oil performance, and lead to costly downtime. Effective contamination control requires a thorough understanding of the sources, types, and effects of particulates, as well as best practices for filtration and monitoring strategies.

This course provides a comprehensive approach to identifying, managing, and mitigating particulate contamination in lubrication systems. Participants will learn how particulate contamination affects machine reliability, where particles originate, the different types of particulates, and how to design effective filtration systems. Additionally, the course covers modern particle count monitoring systems and how they are used to assess oil cleanliness.

Designed for lubrication engineers, reliability professionals, and maintenance personnel, this course equips participants with the knowledge to develop proactive contamination control programs, optimize filtration systems, and extend the life of both lubricants and machinery.

Course Modules:
Contamination Control 02 01 – Effects of Particulates
Understand how solid contaminants affect lubrication systems, leading to increased friction, component wear, blocked filters, reduced oil life, and system inefficiencies.

Contamination Control 02 02 – Sources of Particles
Identify the primary sources of particle contamination, including wear debris, external contaminants, inadequate storage practices, and poor maintenance procedures.

Contamination Control 02 03 – Particle Types
Explore the different types of particulates that affect lubrication systems, including metallic wear debris, dust, dirt, oxidation byproducts, and soft contaminants such as fibers and gel-like residues.

Contamination Control 02 04 – Filtration Philosophy
Learn about filtration strategies and best practices for selecting appropriate filters, including full-flow vs. bypass filtration, depth vs. surface filters, and considerations for filter placement within a system.

Contamination Control 02 05 – Particle Count Systems
Discover how automated particle counting technologies, such as ISO 4406 and NAS 1638 standards, are used to measure and monitor oil cleanliness, helping to track contamination trends and improve maintenance strategies.

• Key Learning Outcomes:
• Understand the impact of particulate contamination on lubricant performance and machine reliability.
• Identify the sources of particulate contamination and implement proactive prevention strategies.
• Learn about different types of solid contaminants and their effects on lubrication systems.
• Develop an effective filtration philosophy to optimize lubricant cleanliness and extend oil and component life.
• Gain insights into modern particle count systems and how they are used for oil condition monitoring and proactive maintenance.

This course is ideal for maintenance professionals, lubrication engineers, and reliability specialists who want to enhance their understanding of contamination control in lubrication systems. By implementing best practices for particulate removal and oil cleanliness monitoring, participants will be able to improve equipment reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and extend oil change intervals.