Condition monitoring for security and defence systems

Condition Monitoring – mobile and stationary solutions for the security and defence industry

In the security and defence industry, technical availability is not a luxury – it is a prerequisite. Whether mobile combat vehicles, maritime systems, aviation units or stationary power and hydraulic systems: the condition of fluids plays a decisive role in determining the functionality, safety and service life of complex systems. Condition monitoring provides transparency in this area – both in the field and in stationary applications during continuous operation.

Transparency in the oil cycle – identifying risks at an early stage

Hydraulic and lubricating oils are operating fluids subjected to high stresses. Particles, water, oxidation and additive degradation have a gradual, insidious effect – often without any visible symptoms. The consequences range from a loss of performance to unplanned system failure. Over 80 per cent of hydraulic failures are attributable to particle contamination.
Through targeted condition monitoring, critical parameters are monitored continuously or periodically:

  • Purity classes in accordance with ISO 4406 / NAS 1638
  • Water content and relative humidity
  • Particle count and size
  • Viscosity and oil ageing
  • Wear indicators

Benefits for military systems engineering

Improved system availability

Extended service life of oil and components

Reduced maintenance and repair costs

Minimised risks of failure during operation

Sustainable use of operating materials

A contribution to modern lifecycle strategies in the defence sector

Measurement Technology – Products for Defence Applications

Optical particle counters – continuous online measurement

Optical particle counters operate on the principle of light obstruction: the fluid is illuminated using LED or laser light; individual particles are measured optically and evaluated numerically. The hydraulic fluid is thus analysed continuously, automatically and almost in real time – including comprehensive documentation of the cleanliness class.

MP Filtri ICM 2.0 – In-line particle counter with LED measurement technology

The ICM 2.0 is an in-line particle counter featuring advanced LED measurement technology for exceptionally fine particle resolution. It continuously measures solid contamination, temperature and relative humidity, and is designed for permanent installation within a hydraulic circuit. The ICM can be operated either manually on the unit itself or via remote control (PC, laptop, tablet) and can be integrated into a higher-level plant control system.
About ICM 2.0

Argo-Hytos OPCOM particle counter

The OPCOM from Argo-Hytos is a tried-and-tested online particle counter designed for permanent installation in hydraulic circuits. It enables automatic monitoring of the oil purity class and can be integrated into plant control systems.
About OPCOM

Oil condition sensors – real-time monitoring of hydraulic fluids

Oil condition sensors provide real-time monitoring of the actual level of contamination and the water content in the oil. The measurement method is based on measuring the dielectric constant.

CML4 – The portable condition monitoring device for field use

The CML4 is a robust, portable contamination monitoring device designed specifically for field use. It operates using the light-blocking method and offers: • Long battery life for all-day outdoor use without recharging • A high-resolution colour touchscreen display suitable for use in sunlight • Storage of up to 4,000 data sets • Data analysis and reporting (PDF) via the “CMP View” software • Rapid decision-making support in the field without the need for external laboratory facilities This means that oil analyses are not only documented but actively integrated into the operational strategy.
About the CML4
LOQS1200 ölzustandssensor

LOQS Oil Quality Sensor

The LOQS sensor (OQS) detects all types of wear and contamination: water, acid, fuel, changes in viscosity, different types of oil, carbon and particles. Changes in oil quality are detected with a sensitivity of 0.01 per cent (10 ppm) and an accuracy of ±0.5 per cent. The sensor reports every two seconds and has a proven track record worldwide for use in extreme industrial environments. Plug-and-play integration is possible.
About LOQS

Argo-Hytos LubCos H2O+ II

The LubCos H2O+ II is a stationary screw-in sensor for the continuous monitoring of oil condition. It measures oil moisture and temperature in hydraulic and lubricating oils – suitable for continuous operation in installed systems.
About LubCos H20

Fixed Condition Monitoring – Continuous System Monitoring

For stationary installations or systems in continuous operation, stationary condition monitoring provides continuous monitoring of critical parameters. Early warning indicators enable:

Trend analyses of oil condition trends

Zustandsorientierte Instandhaltung (Condition-Based Maintenance)

Preventing unplanned downtime

Extending the service life of oil and components

The result is a structured, data-driven fluid management system that optimises maintenance cycles and makes targeted use of resources.

Fluid management as a strategic factor

A holistic fluid management approach combines regular oil analyses, online and offline measurement systems, mobile diagnostic units, and documentation and trend analysis. This provides a robust basis for decision-making regarding maintenance, lifecycle planning and logistical support.