Point of Use Oil Quality Analysis

The current laboratory-based Army Oil Analysis Program (AOAP) demands significant resources to collect samples and perform laboratory analysis, both in terms of soldier effort and operating costs. The Army Materiel Command has directed the Tank Automotive Research and Engineering Center (TARDEC) explore the feasibility of a “point of use oil quality analyzer”. ASTI proposes to integrate the best sensor device concepts into on-board and/or portable oil condition analyzer systems and communicate results with Army logistics and maintenance personnel. ASTI expects that the same or very similar system can be used for a variety of additional fluid characterization and condition sensing applications such as fuel type determination, hydraulic oil diagnostics, and monitoring of transmission fluids. Proposed sensors include a MEMS-based mechanical resonator that provides viscosity and fluid density measurements. Optical sensors are also proposed.