SpectroLNF Q200 particle counter and wear shape classifier
Now includes dynamic viscosity measurement at 25ºC ! |
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The New Generation LaserNet Fines®C Q200 is a bench-top analytical tool that combines the oil analysis techniques of particle shape analysis, particle counting and dynamic viscosity in one instrument. The SpectroLNF Q200 analyzes hydraulic and lubricating oil samples from various types of equipment and machinery that are part of a machine condition-monitoring program. In stead of estimating the size of a particle as conventional particle counters do, the Q200 actually takes pictures of the particles inside the lubricant to accurately determine shape and size, using a high resolution CCD. |
Wear particles can be classified automatically based on shape and size according ot various methods such as ISO 4406. The operator is presented with an assessment of particles found in the fluid sample and a trend history of previous results for the same equipment. The latest edition of the LNF, the Q200, now also includes a dynamic viscosity measurement at 40ºC.
Together with its particle recognition features, this instrument provides enough information to be used as the core of any advanced oil analysis program. |
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| Demonstration video |
Click the "Play" button below to watch a demonstration video of the Spectro LNF Q200
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| Downloads |
 LNF Brochure
Many application papers are available. Please contact us for further info.
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| Background |
As a particle size analyzer, the SpectroLNF Q200 provides the user with shape recognition of all particles greater than 20 µm by using a neural network. An algorithm sorts particles into the following categories: cutting, fatigue, severe sliding, nonmetallic and fibers. The shape recognition software also does a test for circularity so that bubbles and water droplets greater than 20 µm are eliminated from the particle counting results.
As a particle counter, the SpectroLNF Q200 processes and stores thousands of images to obtain good counting statistics. Particles are sized directly and results can be displayed by ISO 4406 Code (>4µm, >6µm, and >14µm), or several military codes. The direct imaging capability of this instrument eliminates the need for calibration with a test dust. |
Air bubbles greater than 20µm are ignored and the laser is powerful enough to process heavily sooted (black) oils.
As a viscometer, it provides dynamic viscosity of the sample, if desired, at the same time as it performs particle count and particle classification. Dynamic viscosity measurements are reported in Centipoise (cP) at ambient temperatures. Typical processing time is 2 - 6 minutes per sample for a viscosity range from 10 to 300cP at 25 C. The viscosity capability is measured using flow rates and pressure drop across the unique flow cell. This measurement does not require calibration, but the SpectroLNF Q200 performance can be periodically verified with SRM 2806 particle count check fluid that is supplied with the instrument. |
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| Advantages |
- Particle count is an indication of a fluid’s cleanliness.
- Data outputs include particle type identification, image maps, size trends and ISO, NAS, and NAVAIR cleanliness codes.
- Algorithms to perform shape analysis, wear particle identification and machine condition assessment.
- Large particles are classed by a neural network as “cutting, fatigue, severe sliding, nonmetallic, free water droplets or fibers”.
- Provides image maps of all particles greater than 20 µm.
- Automatic adjustment for fluid darkness; sees through black diesel lubricating oils.
- Built-in data-base for machine condition trending.
- Automatic sample processor available
- Magnification is set at factory. Recalibration is never required.
- Reports dynamic viscosity
- Reports soot (%) and free water (ppm)
- Provides automatic alarms
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