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Rotrode Filter Spectroscopy (RFS)

Rotrode Filter Spectroscopy (RFS) is an analytical technique that enables rotating disc electrode (RDE) spectroscopy to also detect and analyze large wear and contaminant particles in fluids. RFS supplements standard spectroscopy by providing additional information that can be used to determine the mechanical condition of machinery.

The RFS technique concentrates particles from an oil sample on special electrodes for subsequent analysis with a Spectroil M/C or Spectroil M/N Oil Analysis Spectrometer. The filtration process captures large particles and increases sensitivity because the sample is prepared from a larger volume of oil as compared to routine spectrometric analysis.

RFS makes use of the fact the carbon disc electrodes are porous. Specially designed graphite discs are mounted on an electrode clamp assembly for installation in one of the five stations on the Automated RFS Preparation System. An oil sample is poured into the funnel and the funnel is clamped shut. With the start of the automated process, a vacuum/pressure pump pulls and pushes the sample through the disc electrode and the filtration process concentrates large wear particles on the surface of the electrode. A sensor determines when most of the sample has been filtered through the electrode and automatically starts the electrode cleaning and drying process. The RFS preparation process is complete when all the oil has passed through the disc electrode, residual oil has been washed away, and the electrode is dried. The operator then removes the electrode clamp assembly and uses it as a tool to install the electrode in the Spectroil spectrometer for analysis.

RFS is an important enhancement to standard RDE analysis. It provides new information on the condition of the machine being monitored by expanding the particle detection capability of the RDE technique. It is sometimes also used to screen samples for more time consuming analyses such as ferrography.

Features of the RFS System:
· Complements normal spectrometric analysis with analytical results for large particles.
· Separates and concentrates particles on a disc electrode for analysis.
· Automatic and simultaneous preparation of up to five samples at one time.
· Economical and simple to use.
· Only consumables are RFS discs, rod electrodes and environmentally friendly solvent.
· Samples can be prepared and stored until ready for analysis