Food plant compressor and hydraulic oil monitoring
We monitor the oil's viscosity and water content in compressors, hydraulic units and gearboxes. You see the changes that could stop production early.
- 1Vibration · Motor bearing
- 2Temperature · Motor bearing
- 3Vibration · Compressor bearing
- 4Temperature · Compressor bearing
- 5Oil sensor · Oil return line
Monitored equipment
Screw and piston compressor, hydraulic unit (press, filling), conveyor and mixer gearbox, vacuum pump.
| Topic | In this industry |
|---|---|
| Main oil risk | Oxidation, oil vapour, contamination |
| Monitoring goal | Early sign of oil degradation |
| Benefit | Fewer unplanned production stops. |
The right product and monitoring level are defined at the quote stage.
What we measure
In the oil, viscosity, water and moisture, oil ageing, particle contamination (ISO 4406 code) and the wear-metal trend are measured. On the machine, vibration level and temperature are monitored. When a reading moves away from the machine's normal range, the screen changes from green to amber or red. Warning signs and what they mean
What we do not measure: metal identification (which metal a particle is), acid and base number (TAN/TBN) and vibration spectrum analysis (FFT). These tests need a laboratory and a specialist. DataMonitor does not replace them. It works alongside them. The system watches for warning signs and gives early warning. It does not diagnose faults.
Food & beverage FAQ
When should compressor oil be changed?
The compressor manufacturer's recommendation is the starting point. The decision should then follow the measured condition of the oil. In a screw compressor, oxidation thickens the oil, and this shows up as a rise in viscosity. The dielectric trend shows ageing. Planning the change from that trend helps you change the oil at the right time, neither too early nor too late.
Can oil monitoring help spot a leak early in a food plant?
The oil sensor does not measure leaks directly. It can show early signs of a sealing problem, such as water entering the oil through worn seals. A leak from a hydraulic press or filling unit can create product and hygiene risks, so that warning matters. When the alarm comes, you can check the seals and connections and deal with the issue before it grows.
How does water in oil affect food production?
Water degrades lubrication and increases corrosion (US DOE FEMP Guide). This can shorten the life of bearings and components in compressors, gearboxes and hydraulic units. It also raises the risk of unplanned production stops. In conveyor and mixer gearboxes, water in the oil can also point to a sealing problem. The sensor shows water early, which gives you time to check.
A quote for your machine
The machine, the oil in use and the problem are discussed by phone. The right product and monitoring level are defined. The price is sent as a written quote.
- Product recommendation for your machine
- Written quote
- Installation and alarm set-up included