The abraded material in the oil is an early warning system and quality characteristic
Months before an industrial gearbox or production machine fails, there are abraded particles in its oil circuit that can be clearly identified and indicate that there is a threat of damage. The FAG Wear Debris Check monitors the number of particles as it increases and evaluates them based on their size and material. The sensor can easily be installed in front of the filter in the partial flow of the gearbox's oil circuit. It is also possible to create a separate circuit in which to install the oil sensor. The sensor can also be quickly and easily integrated into existing condition monitoring and control systems via its interfaces, such as Ethernet. This makes the FAG Wear Debris Check an integral part of any holistic system view and provides support in gathering and evaluating process and condition parameters in line with Industry 4.0. The direct integration of the sensor into the process control system allows the performance of the machine and the quality of the products to be optimized, and combing it with a vibration measuring device delivers the optimum solution for reliably monitoring machines and equipment. The precise inspection of the material properties of the abraded particles in the oil and a simultaneous frequency-selective vibration analysis make it possible to determine exactly which components are defective in the gearbox.
Additional services
After the damage has been detected, a professional damage analysis is then required in order to determine what caused it. Schaeffler offers numerous methods of doing this, which can be employed as needed. For example, endoscopy can be used to inspect the inside of the machine and visibly show the extent of the damage using photographs and video recordings, on the basis of which Schaeffler's experts then make a recommendation of actions that should be taken to rectify the damage quickly. Vast sums of money in downtime costs are often saved even here, such as those that would occur if a ship has to make an unplanned stop in the dockyard. Just as important are the measures that can be derived, as these can be used to help prevent the same kind of damage occurring again in the future. These can be technical adjustments or a professional mounting service, which is also offered by Schaeffler. Irrespective of whether the FAG Wear Debris Check is used on its own or in combination with other systems or additional services, it always makes a contribution towards increasing machine availability and reducing maintenance costs.
Schaeffler Industrial Aftermarket
Schaeffler Industrial Aftermarket (IAM) is responsible for the replacement parts and service business for end customers and sales partners in all major industrial sectors. IAM reduces maintenance and operating costs, increases machine availability, and thus boosts its customers' business success through comprehensive, innovative solutions, products, and services for rolling and plain bearings, as well as by consistently applying the total cost of ownership philosophy (TCO). Schaeffler has more than 80,000 employees at 170 locations worldwide, generates group sales of around 11.2 billion euros (FY 2013), and ranks among the world's leading rolling bearing manufacturers and suppliers to the automotive industry.
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