Novel Methods for Real-time in situ Analysis of Lubricants, Coolants, Hydraulic Fluids, and Fuels for Condition Based Maintenance

"A novel three-stage optical multi-sensor for condition monitoring of working fluids is proposed. This device combines several detection modalities developed by Physical Sciences Inc. into a compact, powerful tool for acquiring quantitative information onthe status of a fluid. The proposed device will measure particulate contamination concentration and morphology, including information on the particulate size, shape and iron content. Simultaneously, spectral features of the fluids, contaminants, andadditives will be measured using proven laser absorption spectroscopy techniques. The resulting multi-sensor will provide a robust and reliable monitoring system to be installed in-line with fluid flow systems to provide a detailed look into the "bloodchemistry" of machines. This system will allow real-time monitoring and alarm based on each species of contaminant as well as a combined diagnosis of the probability of failure and performance degradation. If the proposed project succeeds through PhasesI, II, and III, then a robust new technology will be available to the military for facilitating the detection of particulate and dissolved chemicals in working fluids. While the current proposal is aimed at the expressed Navy need in reference tocondition-based maintenance, it is likely that this technology will find widespread application to non-military mechanical systems as well. Industrial producers may utilize the techniques described