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Environmental concerns over the use and service of traditional disposable oil filters are becoming important in filter selection for off-road equipment. This is particularly true on job sites where “zero” equipment oil leakage is demanded. However, many alternatives to traditional filters do not meet original equipment manufacturers specifications for particle removal efficiency and contaminant holding capacity. This paper discusses the operating features and performance of a new line of oil filters that can be cleaned in-place, on equipment. These new filters meet or exceed the capacity and contaminant removal efficiency of typical high performance synthetic or cellulose disposable filters. Laboratory test results of filtration performance and long term structural integrity are presented. Results of extensive, successful field testing on several types of off-road equipment will also be presented.

Oil analysis programs are used to monitor the condition of diesel engines. From the standpoint of engine protection, the size and concentration of oil contaminants are as important as their chemical composition. Wear rates are related to the contaminant size distribution in the oil and degree of filtration. Spectroscopic analysis does not provide particle size information and is incapable of measuring the particularly damaging particles larger than 10 μm. Particle size analysis, when used to complement the spectroscopic analysis, provides a better description of the condition of lubricating and transmission oil. Particle size data can be obtained by particle counters, though in the past it was difficult to obtain reliable data. Recent developments overcome many of these difficulties and permit reliable interpretations of particle size data. This allows better decisions to be made concerning the engine and oil conditions and the filtration requirements of the system.