ENGINE CONDITION DIAGNOSING METHOD Russian patent published in 2003 - IPC

FIELD: mechanical engineering; internal combustion engines. SUBSTANCE: according to proposed method preliminarily prepared oil sample is introduced into spectral light source at velocity providing, at preset probability time-separated recording of signals from each wear particle in sample. Said sample is introduced in form of aerosol into plasma generator, optical radiation signals are recorded simultaneously by two or more measuring channels each tuned to analytical line of radiation of its chemical element, optical signals are transformed into electric signals which are measured and, by value of impulse and equilibrium signals and calibrating characteristics, content of element is sample in form of metal particles and in form of solution are determined separately. For particles whose impulse signals are recorded by two or more channels, their elementary composition is determined, and results obtained are used to evaluate state of engine and its units. By results of previous tests of said engine, time trends of parameters of particles (concentration of elements, number and content of particles, size indices) are plotted. If trend reveals maximum, deposit is washed off from oil filter and washed-off material is analyzed. Mean size of metal particles washed-off from filter is compared with size of particles in oil, relative content of metals in oil and in washed-off are compared, and mount and content of complex particles in oil and washed-off material are compared. Basing of results of comparing of parameters of wear particles in oil and filter washed-off material and with due account of comparing of parameters of wear particles in average statistical engine in good repair, conclusion is made on state of engine under checking. EFFECT: improved efficiency at evaluation of wear of engine units and its after-service life. 1 tbl, 2 dwg