Why Particle Shape Matters in Oil and Fuel Analysis
Monitoring particle contamination in lubrication and fuel systems is critical for preventing equipment wear and failure. Traditional particle size analysis methods, such as light obscuration, assume particles are spherical and only provide size distribution data. However, ASTM D7596-14 introduces a more advanced approach—Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA)—which characterizes both particle size and shape, offering a more accurate assessment of contamination and wear debris.
Limitations of Traditional Particle Size Analyzers
- Size-Only Data: Standard techniques like those guided by calibration using ISO 11171 Light Obscuration measure particle size but do not account for shape variations.
- False Readings: Irregular-shaped particles are often misclassified, leading to inaccurate contamination levels.
- Limited Root Cause Analysis: Without shape data, distinguishing between wear debris, contaminants, and air bubbles becomes challenging.
ASTM D7596-14: The Solution for Comprehensive Particle Analysis
The ASTM D7596-14 standard defines a methodology for Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA), which captures high-resolution images of particles in real time. This method provides:
✅ Precise Size & Shape Analysis – Identifies particle morphology for better classification.
✅ Enhanced Contaminant Differentiation – Distinguishes metal wear particles from fibers, silica, and soft contaminants.
✅ Reliable Fuel & Lubrication Monitoring – Helps ensure compliance with industry cleanliness standards.
The Particle Insight Raptor: A Next-Generation Solution
Vision Analytical’s Particle Insight Raptor is a state-of-the-art Dynamic Image Analyzer designed to meet and exceed ASTM D7596-14 requirements. Unlike traditional size-only methods, the Raptor delivers:
- Real-Time Particle Imaging & Analysis – Instantly identifies contamination sources.
- Automated Particle Classification – Differentiates between metallic debris, sand, fibers, and other contaminants from 1micron to 300 microns in size.
- Advanced Reporting & Compliance – Provides in-depth reports for ASTM and ISO cleanliness standards.
- High Resolution Thumbnail Images – Objective evidence with particle thumbnails for all measured particles 1-300um.
Applications of ASTM D7596-14 Analysis
🔹 Hydraulic Fluid Monitoring – Prevent premature equipment failure and identify problems without the need of an expert. Thumbnail images for all particles.
🔹 Diesel & Aviation Fuel Testing – Ensure fuel quality meets industry regulations.
🔹 Lubrication Oil Condition Monitoring – Detect early signs of wear and contamination.
Why Choose Dynamic Image Analysis Over Light Obscuration?
| Feature | Light Obscuration (ISO 11171) | Dynamic Image Analysis (ASTM D7596-14) |
|---|---|---|
| Measures Particle Size | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Measures Particle Shape | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Differentiates Wear Debris | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Identifies Contaminant Type | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Provides Image of Particles | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Optimize Your Oil & Fuel Analysis with the Raptor
Accurate particle size and shape analysis ensures better contamination control, leading to reduced maintenance costs and improved system efficiency.
📢 Ready to upgrade your contamination monitoring? Contact us today to schedule a demo and see how the Particle Insight Raptor can transform your oil and fuel analysis.
Click here to see the White Paper
View our Blog post on Particulates in Fuel and Lubricating Oils here.
Fuel and Lubrication
debris in fuel and oil
Particle shape, count, and size with dynamic image analysis
Also be sure to view our previous presentation made at the Reliable Plant conference.
