PODS measures three oil parameters:

1. Particle Concentration (from which cleanliness classes based on several standards are derived)

2. Oil Temperature

3. Oil Viscosity

1. Analysis from bottle samples

2. Online measurement at the pressure of the hydraulic system up to 420 bar or 6000 psi

3. Online measurements in combination with ECOLINE UMP 045 by ARGO ECOTEC e.g. during filling or off-line filtration of a hydraulic system

PODS is the key element to Fluid Controlling. Regular measurement of the oil condition of mobile and stationary hydraulic systems can be quickly conducted by the user at any time. The comparison of the results with preset oil quality and cleanliness guidelines will trigger oil service measures tailored to the needs of the system. The exchange of filter elements, the replacement of the oil or the cleaning and drying of the pressure fluid is now determined when accepted limit values are surpassed. Machine operating times are prolonged and the oil change intervals are extended, saving costs in maintenance and repair.

The heart of PODS is a new sensor for particle counting. Based on the concept of Light Extinction, it detects particles of >2µm ( c ) ISO-MTD (Medium Test Dust). The pressure of the hydraulic system moves the oil sample through the sensor during online operation. In bottle sampling mode, the necessary pressure to induce sample flow is produced by CO2 stored in a small refillable pressure bottle (in the field) or compressed are (in the lab). Other sensors measure oil temperature and viscosity. The sample flow rate is measured and automatically regulated depending on oil viscosity. Each sample has one run for flushing (programmable) and three measurement runs of either 5, 10 or 20 ml. The analysis time depends on the oil viscosity and is as fast as 1 minute up to 2.5 minutes.