FieldLab 58 - Portable Oil Analyzer

FieldLab 58 is an integrated oil analysis system that runs on batteries and offers quick and thorough oil analysis in the field. 

Highlights

Commercial professionals who oversee high-value asset fleets need portable, light devices that can produce oil analysis results as quickly as oil analysis labs and with comparable quality. The FieldLab C Series represents cutting-edge military technology that is now accessible for commercial use. It was initially funded by the US Department of Defense (DoD) and subsequently developed and commercialized by Spectro Scientific.

The FieldLab C Series integrated system only requires a few milliliters of oil to conduct four comprehensive tests to maintain critical assets' readiness while effectively managing maintenance expenses.

Easy to Use

• Low sample volumes without the need for reagents or solvents
• A straightforward workflow and intuitive interface reduce human error
• Integrated video tutorial for novice users

Key Features

Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

• Rugged design with battery power for on-site field use
• Complete oil analysis lab with four technologies integrated into a small case
  • X-Ray Florescence (XRF) spectrometer for elemental analysis
  • Filter Particle Quantifier (FPQ) pore blockage particle counter
  • Infrared (IR) spectrometer
  • Kinematic viscometer (40 °C)
• ASTM compliant
• Four tests generate more than 20 oil analysis parameters in less than 10 minutes.
• Built-in controller for measurement, data, and assets with touch screen interface
• No solvents or chemicals required
• Uses only 12 mL of oil

Smart Diagnostics, Flexible Alarm Setting

Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

• User-customizable alarm limits and diagnostic sets for continuous improvement over time
• Easy to read oil analysis report with clear Observations, Diagnostics, and Recommended Actions.
• Factory alarm limit tables for common components

Optional Interface with TruVu 360 Fluid Intelligence Software

• Dashboards that provide a summary of asset condition and fleet readiness
• Key performance indicators and cost-savings views are displayed on the CBM oil-analysis program management dashboard (KPIs).

Key Parameters

Machine Wear

Up to 16 elements for particles: Si, Al, Cr, Ti, Fe, Ni, Pb, Cu, Sn, Mo, Ag, Zn, V, Mg, W, Co

Contamination

• Particle count >4 micron (measured), ISO codes
• Water, glycol, soot

Chemistry and Viscosity

• Oxidation, nitration, sulfation, TAN, TBN
• Viscosity @40 °C, calculated viscosity @100 °C

Principles of Operation

Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

Particle Count and Elemental Analysis — ASTM D812 

Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

The patented FPQ pore blockage particle counter (ISO 21018-3) generates particle counts. It records the relevant particles onto a distinct filtergram to detect severe wear. Now, this debris can be measured for up to 16 elements in ppm with the companion XRF spectrometer, providing instantaneous results.

An X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer examines wear and contamination particles larger than 4 µ that deposit on the filtergram. It reports the concentration (in parts per million) of up to 16 distinct elements. 

The filtergram coupon can be stored for later analysis, such as microscopic wear debris analysis of particle colors and shapes.

Fluid Chemistry and Contamination — ASTM D7889 

Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

Without chemicals or solvents, the IR spectrometer can determine the contamination and lubricant chemistry in just one minute with a single oil drop. It is a small package perfect for field use and combines ease of use, ruggedness, and laboratory precision.

For engine oil, the parameters that FluidScan measures are oxidation, nitration, sulfation, anti-wear additive, Total Base Number (TBN), glycol, soot, and water; for rotating machine lubricants, such as gear oil, transmission oil, and hydraulic oil, the parameters are oxidation, Total Acid Number (TAN), and water.

Viscosity — ASTM D8092 

Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

A kinematic viscometer with a patented, temperature-controlled split-cell design is used to measure viscosity.

The center of the cell forms a funnel with a gap of 100 µ. Gravity causes the oil to flow, and the cell's optical sensors detect it. The oil's viscosity determines how long it takes to pass through the cell. After being opened, the cells can be cleaned with a non-abrasive wipe. Solvents are not required in this case.

FieldLab C Series Models

Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

Videos

New FieldLab Series Portable Oil Lab for Commercial Use. Video Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific

Dimensions

487.68 mm (L) × 386.08 (W) × 228.6 (H); 19.2” × 15.2 × 9