Tribo-diagnostics as an indicator and input for the optimization of vehicles preventive maintenance

Abstract

The importance of using proper oil analysis is not always entirely clear to all users. There is a strategy that shows when it is necessary to change the oil. The oil might be used to indicate when and where the failure occurs in a vehicle. In other words, an oil analysis can reduce the severity of failures. Most often, oil analysis program combines the continuous attention to oil and the vehicles condition. By combining the instrumental methods of tribotechnical diagnostics (FTIR spectrometry, atomic emission spectrometry, particles analysis with the use of a laser analyzer) it was found that engine oil change intervals should be optimized to maximize the efficiency of engines and extend their lifetime. Changing the engine oil specified by the manufacturer of the buses is relatively conservative, does not reflect the operating motor conditions, fuel quality and individual driving habits and ambient conditions.