ASTM International recently approved Test Method D7889, "Standard Test Method for Field Determination of In-Service Fluid Properties Using IR Spectroscopy."
The new approved test method details the use of a grating spectrometer to analyze properties of an in-service fluid sample, confirming that spectrometers such as Spectro Inc.'s FluidScan Q1000 and Q1100 portable condition monitors meet ASTM guidelines.
"FluidScan is a powerful, easy-to-use tool for field personnel seeking immediate onsite oil condition information," said Spectro Inc. president and CEO Brian Mitchell. "With the ASTM's approval of Test Method D7889, users of FluidScan analysis around the world can be confident that the method meets established ASTM standards."
Test Method D7889 specifically describes the way soot, anti-wear additives, oxidation, nitration and sulfation are measured. Performance levels published in D7889 for those in-service fluid properties (measured by repeatability tests) show this type of analysis provides measurements at levels comparable to established FTIR methods. In essence, the test method covers six existing FTIR in-service test methods for lubricant analysis.
Additionally, D7889 discusses the use of the spectrometers to provide acid/base data, water content and other relevant parameters, and also establishes ASTM guidelines for creating infrared calibrations.
For more information, visit www.spectroinc.com.
