Sensors for condition monitoring of hydraulic fluids

A novel, miniaturized optical multi-sensor for in-situ condition monitoring of hydraulic fluids in air vehicles and ground support equipment is proposed. This device combines several detection modalities including light absorption spectroscopy and lightscattering techniques developed by Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) into a compact, powerful tool for acquiring quantitative information on the condition of hydraulic fluid. The multi-sensor detection modalities are designed to correlate with measurementscurrently performed in Navy laboratories to assess the condition of hydraulic fluid. PSI proposes to innovatively use array detectors to complete these measurements and extend the functionality of proven laboratory methods. These detection modalitieswill be able to sense: chemical composition of the fluid, particulates and dissolved contaminants (including water and solvents). Based on these detection modalities the multi-sensor will output real-time data and alarms based on the status of thehydraulic fluid including fluid degradation. When the proposed project succeeds through Phases I, II, and III, then a robust new technology will be available to the military for the determining the condition of hydraulic fluid. While the current proposalis aimed at the expressed Navy need in reference to hydraulic fluid for air vehicles and ground support equipment, it is likely that this technology will find widespread application to non-military mechanical systems as well. Currently, PSI is working onsimilar sensors for air vehicle fuel condition assessment and hydraulic fluid condition assessment on submarines. Further, Industrial producers may utilize the techniques described to automate fluid remediation processes of all kinds. Other applicationscould include virtually any liquid process where contamination-induced failure constitutes a serious problem.