Purpose -The dependency on human expertise for analysis and interpretation is the main reason for wear debris analysis not being used in industry to its full potential and becoming one of the most powerful machine condition monitoring strategies. The dependency on human expertise makes the interpretation and result subjective in nature, costly and time consuming. The purpose of this paper is to review work being done to develop an automatic, reliable and objective wear particle classification system as a solution to the above problem. At the same time it also aims to discuss some common off line test methods being practiced for wear debris analysis. Design/methodology/approach -Computer image analysis is a solution for some of the problems associated with the conventional techniques. First it is tried to efficiently describe the characteristics of computer images of different types of wear debris using a few numerical parameters. Then using some Artificial Intelligence tools, the wear particle classification system can be developed. Findings -Many shape, size and surface parameters are discussed in the paper. Out of these, nine numerical parameters are selected to describe and distinguish six common type of wear debris. Once the type of debris is identified, the mode of wear and hence the machine condition can be assessed. Practical implications -The present process of fault and condition monitoring of an equipment by wear debris analysis involves human judgment of debris formations. A set-up standard for comparison of debris will enable the maintenance team to diagnose faults in a comparatively better way. Originality/value -The aim of this paper is to discuss the difficulties in identifying wear particles and finding out the exact health of equipment, which, due to its subjective nature, is influenced by human errors. An objective method with certain standards for classification of wear particles compatible with an artificial intelligence system will yield some flawless results of wear debris analysis, which has not been attempted in the past as per available literature.

Purpose -Engine oil degrades in quality during its use and after certain period of time the oil needs to be changed depending upon its condition. The purpose of this paper is to design and develop an online condition monitoring device for engine oil. Design/methodology/approach -Based on the previous works in this line and some testing of used oils in the laboratory, the correlation of change in colour with other properties were identified. An optical colour sensor was then designed and developed which can transform the darkness of oil colour into electrical resistance. A series of tests were undertaken to calibrate the system for its correctness. Findings -This type of sensor provides the information about the condition of the oil and also can inform about the probable time for drain-off of the oil. Practical implications -Engine oil changes are normally done by schedules which are highly conservative and cost the user as the oil is changed when it could be still used for some time. Use of an online sensor will minimize the cost on lubricants to some extent. Originality/value -The device is of great value to the users of IC engines as it not only reduces the cost on lubricants but also informs the user about the present condition of the oil.

Recently, the design of a theranostics system has involved increasing attention in the area of biomedical applications. In many cases, the intricate synthesis process of upconversion nanoparticle-based composite materials limits the use of theranostics applications. To address this challenge, a nanocomposite has been successfully fabricated by the conjugation of magnetic NaGdF4:Yb/Er nanoparticles as an imaging agent and MIL-53­(Fe) as a drug carrier through a single step. Simultaneously, folic acid is encapsulated on the surface of the nanocomposite by conjugation chemistry to achieve the targeted drug delivery applications. The synthesized nanocomposite exhibits a sufficient amount of loading ability toward the model anticancer doxorubicin and possesses pH-responsive drug release. The functionalized nanocomposite not only possesses excellent colloidal stability and good magnetic and fluorescence property but also shows superior biocompatibility, strong tumor cell growth inhibitory effect, and cancer-enhanced cellular uptake. It is expected that the synthesized nanocomposite can also serve as a platform for both T1 and T2 MRI contrast agents.

PurposeTo study and estimate changes of various properties upon use of engine oil by different methods.Design/methodology/approach – By viscosity measurement, pH measurement, Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopic analysis and UV‐Visible (Ultraviolet and visible rays) spectroscopic analysis.Findings – Some specific changes in additives of the oil upon use could be traced.Practical implications – Correct choice for additives for a particular use may enhance the oil life and also protect the engine from damage.Originality/value – The findings may be important to the lube oil producers and the users.

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