Contamination Control 2A – Particulate Measurement

Particulate contamination is one of the leading causes of lubricant degradation and equipment failure in industrial machinery. Even microscopic particles can accelerate wear, damage bearings and gears, and compromise system performance. To maintain lubricant cleanliness and ensure optimal equipment reliability, it is essential to implement effective contamination control strategies that include detection, monitoring, and removal of particulate contaminants.

This course provides a structured approach to understanding and managing particulate contamination in oil systems. Participants will explore different contamination detection techniques, from simple visual inspections to advanced analytical methods such as particle counting, membrane patch colorimetry (MPC), and ferrography. The course covers the principles behind each method, how to interpret results, and best practices for integrating contamination monitoring into a proactive maintenance program.

Designed for reliability engineers, maintenance professionals, and lubrication specialists, this course equips participants with the knowledge to identify contamination risks, implement effective monitoring techniques, and develop strategies to minimize particle-related failures in lubrication systems.

Course Modules:
Contamination Control 02A 01 – Visual Inspection
Learn how to perform basic visual inspections of lubricants to detect early signs of contamination, discoloration, and sediment buildup. Understand the limitations of visual analysis and when further testing is necessary.

Contamination Control 02A 02 – Patch Testing
Explore membrane patch testing as a method for identifying solid contaminants in oil. Learn how to collect, filter, and analyze samples to assess the level and nature of contamination.

Contamination Control 02A 03 – Particle Count
Understand how automatic particle counting works, its role in monitoring lubricant cleanliness, and how to interpret ISO 4406, NAS 1638, and other industry cleanliness codes.

Contamination Control 02A 04 – MPC (Membrane Patch Colorimetry)
Learn about membrane patch colorimetry (MPC), a critical test for detecting varnish and oxidative byproducts in lubricating oils. Understand how oxidation-related contamination differs from solid particle contamination.

Contamination Control 02A 05 – Direct Reading Ferrography
Examine how direct reading ferrography is used to detect and quantify wear particles in oil, providing valuable insights into equipment health and potential failure modes.

Contamination Control 02A 06 – PQI (Particle Quantifier Index)
Explore the Particle Quantifier Index (PQI) test, which measures the total concentration of ferrous debris in oil, helping to identify abnormal wear conditions in rotating and reciprocating machinery.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize the impact of particulate contamination on lubricant performance and equipment reliability.
• Learn how to conduct visual inspections and patch testing to identify early signs of contamination.
• Understand particle counting methods and how to interpret cleanliness standards.
• Use advanced oil analysis techniques such as ferrography, MPC, and PQI to monitor and diagnose lubrication system health.
• Develop proactive contamination control strategies to reduce wear, extend oil life, and improve system efficiency.

This course is ideal for maintenance engineers, lubrication technicians, and reliability professionals who want to enhance their contamination control practices. By mastering oil cleanliness monitoring techniques, participants will be better equipped to prevent failures, optimize maintenance schedules, and extend the life of critical lubrication systems.