Field Particle Counting on a Caterpillar Haul Truck Using a Portable Optical Counter

The trend in contamination levels of the hydraulic fluid with two kinds of filters was studied and the quality of the fluid at the end of the test period was assessed by using on-line particle counting in the field. The quality of the fluid with finer filtration was found to be much better and well suited for extended use of the machinery[10]. This analysis resulted in an informed data-based decision about extending the oil change intervals on a Caterpillar 190 Ton Haul Truck, up to two times the normal change intervals, by using finer filters in place of coarse standard filters.