What equipment is preferred for analyzing hydraulic fluid contamination?

The preferred equipment for analyzing hydraulic fluid contamination is an electronic particle counter. This device is specifically designed to detect and quantify particulate contamination in hydraulic fluids. It works by passing a sample of fluid through a laser or optical sensor, allowing for precise measurement of the size and number of particles present in the fluid. This level of detail is crucial because even small particles can lead to significant wear and tear on hydraulic systems, potentially causing failures or malfunctions.

Electronic particle counters provide a more accurate and consistent analysis compared to manual filters, which may not collect all contaminants effectively or might require subjective interpretation. Visual inspections are often limited to detecting visible contamination, which may miss smaller particulates that can still negatively impact system performance. Standard gauges are typically used to measure pressure, temperature, or fluid levels, but they are not effective for assessing the cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid itself. Therefore, the electronic particle counter is the most reliable and comprehensive choice for ensuring the integrity of hydraulic systems.