Technical Cleanliness in Hydraulics
The cleanliness of technical components is frequently determined by means of a gravimetric analysis , which uses a fluid to extract the particles that are adhered to the component . The fluid is filtered and the filter paper is then weighed. The result corresponds to the weight of the residual contamination in mg. If the analysis is extended by means of a microscopic inspection, it is also possible to provide data on the particle size distribution and the particle material. Methods for extraction, analysis and documentation are regulated by guidelines such as the VDA guideline 19.
The permissible particle exposure is determined based on the complexity of the hydraulic system and the components used. In addition, there are often works standards that define the maximum quantity, size and the permissible particle weight.
The cleaning performance depends on a number of factors, such as the size of the lines and the level of contamination present. Residual contamination analysis can be performed in case of doubt. It can be said that the following rule applies for requirements regarding technical cleanliness: As clean as necessary, not as clean as possible.
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