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Is real time engine oil analysis
possible?
John E. Lees
Space Research Centre,
University of Leicester
How to successfully adopt new technologies
Wednesday 12 January 2011
Real Time Oil Analysis
 Is it important?
 Does anyone really want it?
 Is it possible with current technology?
 Is the cost too high?
 Are the devices too bulky?
 Is there a viable solution?
Space Research Centre
Formula 1
 No real time oil analysis
 Track side analysis
 Over 500 sensors on each car
 Oil from car tested using X-ray
fluorescence spectroscopy
 “That’s the holy grail” Mike Copton, 2004
Space Research Centre
Economics
 Change the lubricant too early and you will waste
money:
• Replacing oil prematurely
• Taking vehicles off the road too often
 Change the oil too late and you will waste money:
• Higher fuel bills
• Risk higher maintenance costs
Space Research Centre
Economics
 Estimated direct and consequential
annual loss to industries in the USA due to
wear is approximately 1-2% of GDP.
(Heinz, 1987)
Space Research Centre
Silicon detectors
 Silicon X-ray Detectors
 Good spectral response
 Operate cooled < -20°C
Comparison of X-ray
fluorescence spectra of old
(solid line) and new (circles)
motor oil.
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Compound semiconductor devices
• High efficiency
• High temperature operation (>100°C)
• Robust
• Photon counting
• Energy resolution
• Fast response
Space Research Centre
Oil Analysis - 1
E-type Jaguar
After 2000 miles
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Oil Analysis - 1
500 miles – “flushing oil”
Space Research Centre
Summary
 Real-time oil analysis would provide monitoring of
key contaminants
 In-situ robust device operating reliably at high
temperatures
 Accurate measurement would ensure optimum oil
change
 Economic and environmental benefit
 Contact: Dr. John Lees – 0116 252 5519
[email protected]
Space Research Centre