I spent 15 years working with on track plant before starting work with Brush Traction. Within their test and commissioning department I worked on various locomotive projects from class 60 through to the Channel Tunnel locomotives and class 57 plus a number of other locomotive class's.

The failure of an engine, gearbox or final drive component can lead to both logistical and resource problems, with the train needing to be returned to the depot for investigation or repair, the outcome of this would be loss of service, reliability and revenue. Read More.

An increasingly popular solution to ensuring vehicle performance and thus improved reliability and reduced costs for both passenger and freight operators is fluid analysis; this is an important preventative maintenance tool.

Fluid and Condition Monitoring offers rail engineers and maintenance teams an insight into what's really going on in the propulsion unit and subsequently provides information and recommendations for any actions that might be required. This is an 'all makes' service, offering oil and coolant analysis from any engine, transmission final drive or hydraulic system.

The sooner a problem or abnormality is highlighted by oil analysis the quicker an action can be put in place and could mean the difference between a minor repair and a major failure; creating both financial and time saving benefits for all rail engineers.

There are a number of engine problems that are associated with cooling systems, by analysing the coolant sample looking for the effects of corrosion, erosion and the general coolant condition, long-term neglect will cause engine damage and result in higher repair costs.

Fluid analysis will highlight changes in component wear trends and the cause, for example is it the correct lubricant, is the maintenance periodicity right for you, and would a Conditioned Base Maintenance regime work for you and your fleet.

The whole process of fluid analysis is very simple. A small amount of fluid is extracted from the required compartment, which is then sent away to be analysed. With regular fluid analysis and proper monitoring, the life cycle of the engine, transmissions and hydraulics can be extended, by carrying out minor repairs before they become a major failure. Avoiding unnecessary oil changes, reducing the risk of component failure and preventing downtime.