Particle Quantifier (Ferrous Density)

Definition

Particle Quantifier (Ferrous Density) exposes a lubricant to a magnetic field. The presence of any ferrous metal causes a distortion in the field, which is represented as the PQ Index, an arbitrary unit of measurement that correlates well with DR ferro large. Although PQ does not provide a ratio of small to large ferrous particles, if the PQ Index is smaller than iron parts per million (ppm) by ICP, it’s unlikely there are any particles larger than 10 microns present. If the PQ Index increases dramatically while the ICPs iron parts per million (ppm) remains consistent or goes down, larger ferrous particles are being generated. Analytical Ferrography should then be used to qualify the type of wear occurring.

Standard Test Method Used

Manufacturer Method

Reporting Measurement

MFR units

Amount of Sample Needed

4 mL

Test Limitation

Detects only ferrous (iron) particles. Will not detect non-ferrous wear or contamination particles.

(click on image for larger version)