Abstract

A fluid monitoring arrangement 1 for an engine is operated in accordance with a method whereby nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) interrogation of the fluid flow 3 it is possible to determine whether appropriate fluids and additives are being utilised as well as whether potential detrimental actions occur such as engine wear and carbonisation through particulate components within the flow 3. Generally, an expected signal response from the fluid flow 3 is determined and the actual signal response compared in a comparator 8 with that expected signal response. Divergence in the actual signal response and in particular with regard to its profile is identified and an indication provided in a display 10 with regard to the potential coolant of such divergence. Normally, a reference library 11 is provided of expected signal responses for comparison in the comparator with the actual signal responses. The library 11 stores reference responses for known causes of deviation in the signal response from the NMR interrogation. Thus, by a best fit comparison a prediction as to the cause of divergence as a result of erroneous use of fluids or additives within the fluid flow 3 can be highlighted.

Other References

• Miller, J., “In-Line Oil Debris Monitor for Aircraft Engine Condition Assessment”, 2000 IEEE Aerospace Conference, Mar. 18, 2000, entire document.
• Powrie, H., “Use of Electrostatic Technology for Aero Engine Oil System Monitoring”, 2000 IEEE Aerospace Conference, Mar. 18, 2000, entire document.