Chevron programs tools to gauge, log lubricant cleanliness

Chevron Products and Noria, a global provider of lubrication consulting services and training, characterize Isoclean Calculator as a first of its kind tool that helps companies gauge prospective equipment life based on lubricant cleanliness. Developed by Chevron and powered by Noria Life Extension tables, it helps calculate particle contamination levels typical of each user’s fleet.



Mixer trucks are among Mobile Equipment applications under the Isoclean Calculator’s Construction category. Developers have populated the tool with benchmarks reflecting typical and optimal lubricant characteristics for mixer truck engines and hydraulic systems, plus a host of other mainline construction vehicles.
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“We have worked with Chevron to create a tool that will leverage the comprehensive cleanliness data base of our Life Extension tables, but in an easy to use format that is very intuitive and simple,” says Noria President Mike Ramsey. “Most users have no idea how contaminated their lubricants really are, and how harmful that can be to their equipment. This resource is a great way to easily calculate cleanliness levels so customers can take action to help maximize equipment life.”

Considering that the number one cause of lubricant-related failures in equipment is contaminant particles, he adds, the Isoclean Calculator is crucial in helping users understand their specific challenges and how to overcome unique obstacles for maximum efficiency. Noria’s Life Extension tables summarize the effect of contaminant particles on the expected service life of hydraulics, gears plus rolling element and journal bearings.

CALCULATOR FUNCTION

A three-step process collects all the relevant information of a user’s industry or sector, equipment type and components, and conditions pertaining to the lubricant used in their operations. Based on data selected, the Isoclean Calculator customizes a results report for each user, providing the target ISO Cleanliness Code compared to the current one; visuals of the magnified patch samples of each; and, current equipment lifespan versus what could be realized with Chevron Isoclean Certified Lubricants.

“By utilizing the powerful data from Noria, the calculator is the latest addition to our ongoing efforts to help customers understand the effects of particle contamination and prevent premature equipment wear and failure,” notes Chevron Products Vice President Americas, Lubricants Doug Hinzie. “This tool provides actionable information that helps our customers improve their bottom line by reducing unscheduled downtime, and increasing equipment life.”

The Isoclean program includes lubricants that have been certified to meet OEM fluid cleanliness requirements, plus in-plant services designed to clean up and manage contamination of in-service lubricants and operating systems. Isoclean Certified Lubricants meet a specific ISO Cleanliness code at the point of delivery, which represents the most stringent standards and specifications for lubricants placed in equipment per requirements of leading OEMs. An important first step in controlling lubricant contamination is starting with a certified lubricant, Chevron Products contends. Isoclean products help reduce the expense and manpower required by end customers to pre-filter non-certified lubricants to meet OEM requirements.

Chevron offers more than 60 Isoclean Certified Lubricants for critical equipment components from hydraulics to gear oils to synthetics for a variety of industries. The formulations give customers the opportunity to significantly extend equipment component life by two to four times in most cases, company engineers note. Chevron Products Co., San Ramon, Calif., www.chevronisoclean.com; Noria Corp., www.noria.com