The oil humidity sensor LDH112 from ifm, continuously monitors and measures the relative humidity and temperature of oil in use in a plant. This enables plant operators to carry out condition-based changes and maintenance. It allows for the medium to be used with maximum efficiency and thus plant damage, due to reduced cooling or lubricating action, can be avoided. Corrosion and cavitation caused by free water can also be effectively prevented.
With its standardised process connection and M12 connector, the LDH1xx can be put into operation easily and correctly, and with the IO-Link technology the data can be used for IT-based condition monitoring. The stainless steel housing withstands the harshest conditions of the operating environment permanently.
Enabling condition-based maintenance
To ensure the efficiency of hydraulic systems, oil samples are usually analysed at regular intervals. This involves specific effort and costs. By contrast, the continuous measurement of oil humidity allows for condition-based maintenance to be conducted as required, enabling reduced costs and less system downtime.
Early steps against corrosion and cavitation
Moisture in the hydraulic oil can cause component corrosion and cavitation, which can damage the pumps, resulting in complete component failure, unplanned downtime and repair costs. The LDH1xx provides information about the current humidity content of the oil, which means the plant operator can initiate countermeasures in good time to prevent water from penetrating the system. Possible points of entry, such as damaged seals or open oil tanks, can also be detected.
Consistent system efficiency
The quality of oil decreases with increasing oil humidity and this reduces the efficiency of the filter and lubrication and has a negative effect on the ageing of the oil. By measuring the oil humidity consistently, the quality of the oil can be determined and measures can be taken to prevent the oil from losing its properties and its effective lubrication.
Added value with IO-Link
The added value of IO-Link enables convenient set-up: the sensor can be configured quickly and easily. If the device is replaced, the parameter sets are written directly to the new device.
IO-Link also supports transparent processes: oil humidity and temperature can be checked digitally at any time. And using digital communication, the risk of conversion losses in data transmission is excluded.
The sensor is also available with two analogue outputs.
For more information visit: www.ifm.com