Importance

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Abstract

A method for determining a fuel-dilution condition of a lubricant used in transportation and industrial equipment. The method uses apparatus that applies a high frequency and optionally a low frequency oscillating signal to electrodes immersed in the fluid and quantifies fluid response to the signals. Apparatus can further include means to control the lubricant temperature, or a temperature sensor to monitor the lubricant temperature at the electrodes. The method monitors response of the lubricant to the applied electrical signals and determines ratios of lubricant properties. The high-frequency lubricant property ratio or change of high frequency lubricant property as a function of a lubricant use-measure is compared to a predicted ratio based on lubricant use and an estimate of the lubricant's fuel dilution determined. The optional low-frequency lubricant property ratio is compared to thresholds to determine when the lubricant loses the ability to control fuel dilution. The method outputs information relevant to the fuel-dilution condition of the lubricant.

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First Claim