Method for on-line fuel-dilution monitoring of engine lubricant
US7259575B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 8, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 21, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF01M2011/14
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for determining a fuel-dilution condition of a lubricant used in transportation and industrial equipment. The method uses apparatus that applies a high frequency and optionally a low frequency oscillating signal to electrodes immersed in the fluid and quantifies fluid response to the signals. Apparatus can further include means to control the lubricant temperature, or a temperature sensor to monitor the lubricant temperature at the electrodes. The method monitors response of the lubricant to the applied electrical signals and determines ratios of lubricant properties. The high-frequency lubricant property ratio or change of high frequency lubricant property as a function of a lubricant use-measure is compared to a predicted ratio based on lubricant use and an estimate of the lubricant's fuel dilution determined. The optional low-frequency lubricant property ratio is compared to thresholds to determine when the lubricant loses the ability to control fuel dilution. The method outputs information relevant to the fuel-dilution condition of the lubricant.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.