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Feasibility Study on Shear Horizontal Surface Acoustic Wave Sensors for Engine Oil Evaluation
Saya Kobayashi1, Jun Kondoh1,2
1Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu-shi 432-8561, Japan.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 16, 2020
Summary
Monitoring engine oil is crucial. A shear horizontal surface acoustic wave (SH-SAW) sensor revealed that water content is the main factor degrading motorbike engine oil, more so than particles or heating effects.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Tribology
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- On-site engine oil monitoring is essential for mechanical health.
- Shear horizontal surface acoustic wave (SH-SAW) sensors offer simultaneous measurement of liquid properties and mass.
- Understanding engine oil degradation is key to preventing equipment failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the degradation factors of used motorbike engine oil.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of SH-SAW sensors for engine oil analysis.
- To identify the primary cause of engine oil degradation.
Main Methods:
- Engine oil samples (new and used) were analyzed using a SH-SAW sensor.
- The sensor measured mechanical and electrical properties, including viscosity, relative permittivity, and conductivity.
- Degradation factors such as particles, heating, and water content were experimentally assessed.
Main Results:
- The SH-SAW sensor successfully detected changes in used engine oil properties.
- Water content was identified as the most significant factor contributing to engine oil degradation.
- The study compared the effects of particles, heating, and water on oil quality.
Conclusions:
- Water contamination is the primary cause of engine oil degradation in motorbikes.
- SH-SAW sensors are a viable tool for real-time engine oil condition monitoring.
- Further research can optimize sensor application for predictive maintenance.
