How are IOS cleanliness targets for a hydraulic system verified?

Verification of IOS cleanliness targets for a hydraulic system primarily involves quantifying the particulate contamination level within the hydraulic fluid. Using a portable particle counter is the most effective method for achieving this, as it provides a precise measurement of the size and number of particles present in the fluid.

Portable particle counters operate by sampling the hydraulic fluid and analyzing it in real-time, allowing for an accurate assessment of cleanliness against established ISO cleanliness codes. This enables technicians to determine whether the fluid meets specific cleanliness requirements and helps identify any potential issues that could lead to system malfunctions or decreased efficiency.

In contrast, while regular oil changes, proper filter systems, and visual inspections contribute to maintaining the overall health of a hydraulic system, they do not quantitatively assess the cleanliness level of the hydraulic fluid itself, which is crucial for adhering to ISO cleanliness standards. Oil changes can help reduce contamination over time, and filter systems work to remove particulates, but they do not directly measure the contamination level. Visual inspections offer subjective observations but lack the precision required for thorough cleanliness verification.