Page 222 - Intro Predictive Maintenance

Tribology 213

Sampling

A sampling method will be supplied to extract a sample for the equipment that will be
repetitive and representative of the health of the equipment and the lubricant. Improper
sampling methods or locations are the primary reason that many oil analysis programs
fail to generate measurable benefits. Extreme care must be take to ensure that the correct
location and best sampling practices are universally applied and followed.

Testing

Equipment-specific testing assigned during the audit stage will supply the required
data to effectively report the health of the lubricant and equipment. This testing must
be performed without delay.

Exception Testing
Sample data that report an abnormal condition or an alarm or target that has been
exceeded requires exception testing. This will help pinpoint the root-cause of the
anomaly. The oil analysis technician should authorize these tests, which are not to be
considered as routine testing.

Data Entry

The recorded data should be installed into a system that allows for trending and future
reference, along with report-generation opportunities.

Baseline Signature Review
After all tests are performed, the data are systematically reviewed. Combining the hard
data gathered in the system audit with experience, the root-causes of potential failures
can be pinpointed. A report should then be generated containing all test results, along
with a list of recommendations. This report should include testing frequencies and any
required improvements necessary to bring the present condition of the lubricant and/or
the operating conditions to within the acceptable targets.

9.2.4 Monitoring

These activities are performed to collect and trend any early signs of deteriorating
lubricant and equipment condition and/or any changes in the operating environment.
This information should be used as a guide for the direction of any required mainte-
nance activities, which will ensure safe, reliable, and cost-effective operation of the
plant equipment.

Routine Monitoring
Routine monitoring is designed to collect the required data to competently inform the
predictive maintenance analysts or maintenance group of the present condition of its