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ZEISS Microscopy Knowledge Base

Introduction to Standards

Common Characteristics

The supported standards have common characteristics.

  • Distribution of particle size classes
    • Definition of particle size classes as cumulative (open size intervals) or differential (closed size intervals) particle counts
    • Core measurement parameter (in general: Feret Max) which is used for particle size classification
  • Translation of particle numbers in cleanliness level (cleanliness codes or levels)
    • Definition of particle numbers as cleanliness classes
  • Normalization and Standardization of particle counting results
    • Normalized particle number (absolute particle number divided by a factor)
    • Standardized particle number (expressing normalized particle numbers in terms of a given standard value of normalized particle numbers to a standard value)

Effective Filter Area

Analysis of the complete flow through area (effective filter area) is mandatory for component cleanliness standards, oil cleanliness allows the analysis of a smaller area and extrapolation of the results to consider the effective filter area.

1

Filter Area

2

Effective Filter Area

The measurement frame which is defined in the Tiles (measurement) workbench by the diameter is the base for the standard specific calculation of: (1) normalized and standardized values; (2) occupancy rate.

Cleanliness testing of components or medical devices: the measurement frame must cover as a minimum the effective filter area. Note that according to VDA 19.1 or ISO 16232 the complete effective filter area must be analyzed.

Cleanliness testing of oils and lubricants: the measurement frame can be smaller as the effective filter area and the particle results are extrapolated to a larger area, usually to the effective filter area (according to common oil standards).

Supported Standards

The TCA module supports the following standards:

Supported standards in TCA module.

Standard

Description

VDA 19.1

Refers to component cleanliness.

For more information, see VDA 19 Part 1; Inspection of Component Cleanliness.

ISO 16232

Refers to component cleanliness.

For more information, see ISO 16232 Road Vehicle. Cleanliness of Components and Systems.

VDA 19.2 (Illig)

Refers to environmental cleanliness. For more information, especially on the Illig Value, see VDA 19.2 Technical Cleanliness in Assembly - Environment, Logistics, Personnel and Assembly Equipment.

VDI 2083, Part 21

Refers to cleanliness of medical products.

For more information, see VDI 2083 Part 21; Cleanroom Technology. Cleanliness of Medical Devices in the Manufacturing Process.

ISO 4406

Refers to oil cleanliness.

For more information, see ISO 4406 Hydraulic Fluid Power. Fluids. Method for Coding the Level of Contamination by Solid Particles.

ISO 4407

Refers to oil cleanliness.

For more information, see ISO 4407 Hydraulic Fluid Power - Fluid Contamination - Determination of Particulate Contamination by the Counting Method Using an Optical Microscope.

GB/T 20082

Refers to oil cleanliness.

For more information, see GB/T 20082 Hydraulic Fluid Power - Fluid Contamination - Determination of Particulate Contamination by the Counting Method using an Optical Microscope.

GB/T 14039

Refers to oil cleanliness.

For more information, see GB/T 14039 Hydraulic Fluid Power. Fluids. Method for Coding the Level of Contamination by Solid Particles.

NAS 1638

Refers to oil cleanliness in the aerospace industry. Cleanliness requirements of fluids used in hydraulic systems.

For more information, see NAS 1638 National Aerospace Standard.

SAE AS 4059

Refers to oil cleanliness in the aerospace industry. Cleanliness requirements of fluids used in hydraulic systems.

For more information, see SAE AS 4059 Revision G Aerospace Fluid Power - Contamination Classification for Hydraulic Fluids.

Particle Test Standard (CC) (2010) Slide D45

Refers to microscope system validation for component cleanliness testing.

For more information, see Particle Test Standard (CC) (2010) Slide D45.

Particle Test Standard (CC with OC) (2010) Slide D45

Refers to system validation with component cleanliness job template with ML object classification.

For more information, see Particle Test Standard (CC with OC) (2010) Slide D45.

For detailed information, check the respective standards.

All supported standards are visible in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor. VDA 19.2 (Illig) is an exception, it is provided as individual job template, see Understanding the Illig Method.

VDA 19 Part 1; Inspection of Component Cleanliness

Particle Size Class

Size x in µm

B

5 ≤ x < 15

C

15 ≤ x < 25

D

25 ≤ x < 50

E

50 ≤ x < 100

F

100 ≤ x < 150

G

150 ≤ x < 200

H

200 ≤ x < 400

I

400 ≤ x < 600

J

600 ≤ x < 1.000

K

1.000 ≤ x < 1.500

L

1.500 ≤ x < 2000

M

2.000 ≤ x < 3.000

N

3.000 ≤ x

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in cleanliness level as shown in the table:

Cleanliness Level

Particle Count
per 1000cm2 or 100cm3
up to including

00

0.00

0

1.00

1

2.00

2

4.00

3

8.00

4

16.00

5

32.00

6

64.00

7

130.00

8

250.00

9

500.00

10

1000.00

11

2000.00

12

4000.00

13

8000.00

14

16000.00

15

32000.00

16

64000.00

17

130000.00

18

250000.00

19

500000.00

20

1000000.00

21

2000000.00

22

4000000.00

23

8000000.00

24

16000000.00

> 24

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by a normalization factor:

  • Number of components N
  • Wetted component area A or
  • Wetted component volume V

Number of Components (N)

absolute number of particles / component number = normalized particle numbers
Result expression: normalized particle numbers

Wetted component area (A) in mm2

absolute number of particles / wetted component surface and normalization to standard area:*1000 cm2
Result expression: normalized cleanliness code

Wetted component volume (V) in cm3

absolute number of particles / wetted component surface and normalization to standard area*100 cm3
Result expression: normalized cleanliness codes

Example:

The cleanliness codes always refer to normalized and standardized particle results.

  • Number of components = 10
  • Wetted component Area = 200 cm2
  • Wetted component Volume = 50 cm3
Table of particle length size classes and counts with categories All without Fibers, Metallic Shiny, Non-Shiny, and Fiber

Method: Standard Analysis

The standard analysis is fully parameterized from component extraction to filter analysis.

Advantages: The standard analysis has a good degree of result compatibility and is system and operator independent. No further agreement between customer and supplier is required.

Parameter

Description

Measurement of
particles

Length and/or width ≥ 50 µm

Length

Feret Max

Width

Feret Min

Relative image brightness

50 - 60%. Default value: 55%

Relative threshold

70%

Particle typification

Metallic shine as option (Multi Channel 90°/135°)

Contrast

Polarized light

Particle type class All does exclude fibers by default.

Specific fiber criterion based on elongated fiber length and maximum inner circle

Calculation on complete measurement area (effective filter diameter)

For more information, see Concept of Relative Image Brightness and Relative Threshold.

Method: Extended Analysis - Free Analysis

The extended analysis - free analysis is applied whenever supplementary particle information is required:

  • Smaller particle size classes
  • Particle height measurement

Any changes from the standard method must be documented in detail. You can use the extended analysis with the scope of the following:

  • Cause study for critical particles
  • Process optimization
  • Cleanliness specification beyond standard analysis, for example smaller size classes or 3rd dimension.

Parameter

Description

Measurement of particles

Length and/or width ≥ 5 µm

Length

Feret Max

Width

Feret Min

Individual relative image brightness

50 - 60%. Default value: 55%. Can be defined individually.

Individual relative threshold

70%. Can be defined individually.

Particle typification

Metallic shine as option (Multi Channel 90°/135°)

Contrast

Polarized light

Particle type class All does exclude fibers by default.

Specific fiber criterion based on elongated fiber length and maximum inner circle

Calculation on complete measurement area (effective filter diameter)

Default Values for Particle Typification

Parameter

Description

Metallic-Shiny

(Mean gray value > 200.0) or (Max. gray value ≥ 240.0)

Non-Shiny

Objects which are not fiber and not metallic-shiny.

Fiber

(Max. Inscribed Circle ≤ 50.0) and (Fiber Length/Max. Inscribed Circle > 20.0)

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

Maximum inscribed circle = The largest circle that can be inscribed inside an area, see Diameter Maximum Inscribed Circle Filled

Fibers, see Fiber Length

VDA 19.2 Technical Cleanliness in Assembly - Environment, Logistics, Personnel and Assembly Equipment

The Illig method, as described in the VDA 19.2 standard, is used to test the cleanliness of a certain location with its environmental conditions, e.g., air or working benches. By means of particle traps the amount of sedimented particles per time unit (Illig Value) can be analyzed.

The detected particle number per size class is multiplied by a weighting factor, see the first table, summed up and normalized to calculate the Illig value, see table Illig weighting factors. The sum value is normalized to an area of ​​1000 cm2 and related to a measuring time of 1 h. The result is the Illig Value. The calculated Illig value creates a comparison basis for the collected particulate contamination at different locations over a certain time periode. With the Illig formular, larger particles are stronger weighted than smaller ones, because it is more likely that the larger ones have a higher damage potential.

Particle Size Class

Size x in µm

Weighting Factor

B

5 ≤ x < 15

0

C

15 ≤ x < 25

0

D

25 ≤ x < 50

0

E

50 ≤ x < 100

1

F

100 ≤ x < 150

4

G

150 ≤ x < 200

9

H

200 ≤ x < 400

16

I

400 ≤ x < 600

64

J

600 ≤ x < 1.000

144

K

1.000 ≤ x

400

Example calculation: Illig weighting factors

Size x in µm

Result

Weighting Factor

Weighted Particle No.

5 ≤ x < 15

--

0

0

15 ≤ x < 25

--

0

0

25 ≤ x < 50

1620

0

0

50 ≤ x < 100

374

1

374

100 ≤ x < 150

57

4

228

150 ≤ x < 200

43

9

387

200 ≤ x < 400

15

16

240

400 ≤ x < 600

7

64

448

600 ≤ x < 1.000

2

144

288

1.000 ≤ x

3

400

1200

Result:

3165

Normalized for 1000 cm2 and 1 h × 0.39 *

1234

Illig Value [1/1000] cm2 h

Applying the Illig formular

1h / measuring time [h] × 1000 cm2/ measuring area [cm2] = 0.39

Time of sedimentation: 1 week = 168 h
Measuring area (лr2) 15.2 cm2

Measuring area: Filter membrane area used for analysis.
Sedimentation time [h]: Defined the time frame of the sample exposure to air.

ISO 16232 Road Vehicle. Cleanliness of Components and Systems

Particle Size Class

Size x in µm

B

5 ≤ x < 15

C

15 ≤ x < 25

D

25 ≤ x < 50

E

50 ≤ x < 100

F

100 ≤ x < 150

G

150 ≤ x < 200

H

200 ≤ x < 400

I

400 ≤ x < 600

J

600 ≤ x < 1.000

K

1.000 ≤ x < 1.500

L

1.500 ≤ x < 2000

M

2.000 ≤ x < 3.000

N

3.000 ≤ x

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in cleanliness level as shown in the table:

Cleanliness Level

Particle Count
per 1000cm2 or 100cm3
up to including

00

0.00

0

1.00

1

2.00

2

4.00

3

8.00

4

16.00

5

32.00

6

64.00

7

130.00

8

250.00

9

500.00

10

1000.00

11

2000.00

12

4000.00

13

8000.00

14

16000.00

15

32000.00

16

64000.00

17

130000.00

18

250000.00

19

500000.00

20

1000000.00

21

2000000.00

22

4000000.00

23

8000000.00

24

16000000.00

> 24

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by a normalization factor:

  • Number of components N
  • Wetted component area A or
  • Wetted component volume V

Number of Components (N)

absolute number of particles / component number = normalized particle numbers
Result expression: normalized particle numbers

Wetted component area (A) in mm2

absolute number of particles / wetted component surface and normalization to standard area:*1000 cm2
Result expression: normalized cleanliness code

Wetted component volume (V) in cm3

absolute number of particles / wetted component surface and normalization to standard area*100 cm3
Result expression: normalized cleanliness codes

Example:

The cleanliness codes always refer to normalized and standardized particle results.

  • Number of components = 10
  • Wetted component Area = 200 cm2
  • Wetted component Volume = 50 cm3
Table of particle length size classes and counts with categories All without Fibers, Metallic Shiny, Non-Shiny, and Fiber

Method: Standard Analysis

The standard analysis is fully parameterized from component extraction to filter analysis.

Advantages: The standard analysis has a good degree of result compatibility and is system and operator independent. No further agreement between customer and supplier is required.

Parameter

Description

Measurement of
particles

Length and/or width ≥ 50 µm

Length

Feret Max

Width

Feret Min

Relative image brightness

50 - 60%. Default value: 55%

Relative threshold

70%

Particle typification

Metallic shine as option (Multi Channel 90°/135°)

Contrast

Polarized light

Particle type class All does exclude fibers by default.

Specific fiber criterion based on elongated fiber length and maximum inner circle

Calculation on complete measurement area (effective filter diameter)

For more information, see Concept of Relative Image Brightness and Relative Threshold.

Method: Extended Analysis - Free Analysis

The extended analysis - free analysis is applied whenever supplementary particle information is required:

  • Smaller particle size classes
  • Particle height measurement

Any changes from the standard method must be documented in detail. You can use the extended analysis with the scope of the following:

  • Cause study for critical particles
  • Process optimization
  • Cleanliness specification beyond standard analysis, for example smaller size classes or 3rd dimension.

Parameter

Description

Measurement of particles

Length and/or width ≥ 5 µm

Length

Feret Max

Width

Feret Min

Individual relative image brightness

50 - 60%. Default value: 55%. Can be defined individually.

Individual relative threshold

70%. Can be defined individually.

Particle typification

Metallic shine as option (Multi Channel 90°/135°)

Contrast

Polarized light

Particle type class All does exclude fibers by default.

Specific fiber criterion based on elongated fiber length and maximum inner circle

Calculation on complete measurement area (effective filter diameter)

Default Values for Particle Typification

Parameter

Description

Metallic-Shiny

(Mean gray value > 200.0) or (Max. gray value ≥ 240.0)

Non-Shiny

Objects which are not fiber and not metallic-shiny.

Fiber

(Max. Inscribed Circle ≤ 50.0) and (Fiber Length/Max. Inscribed Circle > 20.0)

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

Maximum inscribed circle = The largest circle that can be inscribed inside an area, see Diameter Maximum Inscribed Circle Filled

Fibers, see Fiber Length

VDI 2083 Part 21; Cleanroom Technology. Cleanliness of Medical Devices in the Manufacturing Process

Particle Size Class

Size x in µm

B

5 ≤ x < 15

C

15 ≤ x < 25

D

25 ≤ x < 50

E

50 ≤ x < 100

F

100 ≤ x < 150

G

150 ≤ x < 200

H

200 ≤ x < 400

I

400 ≤ x < 600

J

600 ≤ x < 1.000

K

1.000 ≤ x < 1.500

L

1.500 ≤ x < 2000

M

2.000 ≤ x < 3.000

N

3.000 ≤ x

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in cleanliness level as shown in the table:

Cleanliness Level

Particle Count
per 1000cm2 or 100cm3
up to including

00

0.00

0

1.00

1

2.00

2

4.00

3

8.00

4

16.00

5

32.00

6

64.00

7

130.00

8

250.00

9

500.00

10

1000.00

11

2000.00

12

4000.00

13

8000.00

14

16000.00

15

32000.00

16

64000.00

17

130000.00

18

250000.00

19

500000.00

20

1000000.00

21

2000000.00

22

4000000.00

23

8000000.00

24

16000000.00

> 24

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by a normalization factor:

  • Number of components N
  • Wetted component area A or
  • Wetted component volume V

Number of Components (N)

absolute number of particles / component number = normalized particle numbers
Result expression: normalized particle numbers

Wetted component area (A) in mm2

absolute number of particles / wetted component surface and normalization to standard area:*1000 cm2
Result expression: normalized cleanliness code

Wetted component volume (V) in cm3

absolute number of particles / wetted component surface and normalization to standard area*100 cm3
Result expression: normalized cleanliness codes

Example:

The cleanliness codes always refer to normalized and standardized particle results.

  • Number of components = 10
  • Wetted component Area = 200 cm2
  • Wetted component Volume = 50 cm3
Table of particle length size classes and counts with categories All without Fibers, Metallic Shiny, Non-Shiny, and Fiber

Method: Standard Analysis

The standard analysis is fully parameterized from component extraction to filter analysis.

Advantages: The standard analysis has a good degree of result compatibility and is system and operator independent. No further agreement between customer and supplier is required.

Parameter

Description

Measurement of
particles

Length and/or width ≥ 50 µm

Length

Feret Max

Width

Feret Min

Relative image brightness

50 - 60%. Default value: 55%

Relative threshold

70%

Particle typification

Metallic shine as option (Multi Channel 90°/135°)

Contrast

Polarized light

Particle type class All does exclude fibers by default.

Specific fiber criterion based on elongated fiber length and maximum inner circle

Calculation on complete measurement area (effective filter diameter)

For more information, see Concept of Relative Image Brightness and Relative Threshold.

Method: Extended Analysis - Free Analysis

The extended analysis - free analysis is applied whenever supplementary particle information is required:

  • Smaller particle size classes
  • Particle height measurement

Any changes from the standard method must be documented in detail. You can use the extended analysis with the scope of the following:

  • Cause study for critical particles
  • Process optimization
  • Cleanliness specification beyond standard analysis, for example smaller size classes or 3rd dimension.

Parameter

Description

Measurement of particles

Length and/or width ≥ 5 µm

Length

Feret Max

Width

Feret Min

Individual relative image brightness

50 - 60%. Default value: 55%. Can be defined individually.

Individual relative threshold

70%. Can be defined individually.

Particle typification

Metallic shine as option (Multi Channel 90°/135°)

Contrast

Polarized light

Particle type class All does exclude fibers by default.

Specific fiber criterion based on elongated fiber length and maximum inner circle

Calculation on complete measurement area (effective filter diameter)

Default Values for Particle Typification

Parameter

Description

Metallic-Shiny

(Mean gray value > 200.0) or (Max. gray value ≥ 240.0)

Non-Shiny

Objects which are not fiber and not metallic-shiny.

Fiber

(Max. Inscribed Circle ≤ 50.0) and (Fiber Length/Max. Inscribed Circle > 20.0)

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

Fibers, see Fiber Length

ISO 4406 Hydraulic Fluid Power. Fluids. Method for Coding the Level of Contamination by Solid Particles

Particle Size
Class

Size x in µm

Class 1

5 ≤ x < ∞

Class 2

15 ≤ x < ∞

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in contamination level as shown in the table:

Contamination Level

Particle Count
per 100ml
up to including

0

1.00

1

2.00

2

4.00

3

8.00

4

16.00

5

32.00

6

64.00

7

130.00

8

250.00

9

500.00

10

1000.00

11

2000.00

12

4000.00

13

8000.00

14

16000.00

15

3200.000

16

64000.00

17

130000.00

18

250000.00

19

500000.00

20

1000000.00

21

2000000.00

22

4000000.00

23

8000000.00

24

160000000.00

25

320000000.00

26

640000000.00

27

130000000.00

28

250000000.00

>28

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by the applied oil volume and standardized to 100 ml.

Default Values for Particle Typification

Particle Type

Description

Fiber

Length (Feret Max) > 100 µm
and
Length/Width (Feret Max/Feret Min) > 10 µm

Particle

If the particle is not in the range of Fiber, it is a particle.

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

GB/T 14039 Hydraulic Fluid Power. Fluids. Method for Coding the Level of Contamination by Solid Particles

GB/T 14039:2002 is based on ISO 4406:1999.

Particle Size
Class

Size x in µm

Class 1

5 ≤ x < ∞

Class 2

15 ≤ x < ∞

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in contamination level as shown in the table:

Contamination Level

Particle Count
per 100ml
up to including

0

1.00

1

2.00

2

4.00

3

8.00

4

16.00

5

32.00

6

64.00

7

130.00

8

250.00

9

500.00

10

1000.00

11

2000.00

12

4000.00

13

8000.00

14

16000.00

15

3200.000

16

64000.00

17

130000.00

18

250000.00

19

500000.00

20

1000000.00

21

2000000.00

22

4000000.00

23

8000000.00

24

160000000.00

25

320000000.00

26

640000000.00

27

130000000.00

28

250000000.00

>28

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by the applied oil volume and standardized to 100 ml.

Default Values for Particle Typification

Particle Type

Description

Fiber

Length (Feret Max) > 100 µm
and
Length/Width (Feret Max/Feret Min) > 10 µm

Particle

If the particle is not in the range of Fiber, it is a particle.

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

ISO 4407 Hydraulic Fluid Power - Fluid Contamination - Determination of Particulate Contamination by the Counting Method Using an Optical Microscope

Particle Size
Class

Size x in µm

Class 1

2 ≤ x < ∞

Class 2

5 ≤ x < ∞

Class 3

15 ≤ x < ∞

Class 4

25 ≤ x < ∞

Class 5

50 ≤ x ∞

Class 6

100 ≤ x ∞

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in contamination level as shown in the table:

Contamination Level

Particle Count
per 100ml
up to including

0

1.00

1

2.00

2

4.00

3

8.00

4

16.00

5

32.00

6

64.00

7

130.00

8

250.00

9

500.00

10

1000.00

11

2000.00

12

4000.00

13

8000.00

14

16000.00

15

3200.000

16

64000.00

17

130000.00

18

250000.00

19

500000.00

20

1000000.00

21

2000000.00

22

4000000.00

23

8000000.00

24

160000000.00

25

320000000.00

26

640000000.00

27

130000000.00

28

250000000.00

>28

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by the applied oil volume and standardized to 100 ml.

Default Values for Particle Typification

Particle Type

Description

Fiber

Length (Feret Max) > 100 µm
and
Length/Width (Feret Max/Feret Min) > 10 µm

Particle

If the particle is not in the range of Fiber, it is a particle.

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

GB/T 20082 Hydraulic Fluid Power - Fluid Contamination - Determination of Particulate Contamination by the Counting Method using an Optical Microscope

GB/T 20082:2006 is based on ISO 4407:2002.

Particle Size
Class

Size x in µm

Class 1

2 ≤ x < ∞

Class 2

5 ≤ x < ∞

Class 3

15 ≤ x < ∞

Class 4

25 ≤ x < ∞

Class 5

50 ≤ x ∞

Class 6

100 ≤ x ∞

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in cleanliness level as shown in the table:

Cleanliness Level

Particle Count
per 100ml
up to including

0

1.00

1

2.00

2

4.00

3

8.00

4

16.00

5

32.00

6

64.00

7

130.00

8

250.00

9

500.00

10

1000.00

11

2000.00

12

4000.00

13

8000.00

14

16000.00

15

3200.000

16

64000.00

17

130000.00

18

250000.00

19

500000.00

20

1000000.00

21

2000000.00

22

4000000.00

23

8000000.00

24

160000000.00

25

320000000.00

26

640000000.00

27

130000000.00

28

250000000.00

>28

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by the applied oil volume and standardized to 100 ml.

Default Values for Particle Typification

Particle Type

Description

Fiber

Length (Feret Max) > 100 µm
and
Length/Width (Feret Max/Feret Min) > 10 µm

Particle

If the particle is not in the range of Fiber, it is a particle.

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

NAS 1638 National Aerospace Standard

Particle Size Class

Size x in µm

Class 1

5 ≤ x < 15

Class 2

15 ≤ x < 25

Class 3

25 ≤ x < 50

Class 4

50 ≤ x < 100

Class 5

100 ≤ x

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in contamination level as shown in the table:

Particle Count per 100ml up to including.
*These values differ from the standard values (0/0/1/1). With the standard values an automated assignment to a contamination level is not possible.

Contamination Level

5 ≤ x < 15

15 ≤ x < 25

25 ≤ x < 50

50 ≤ x < 100

100 ≤ x

00

125.00

22.00

4.00

1.00

0*

0

250.00

44.00

8.00

2.00

0.50*

1

500.00

89.00

16.00

3.00

1.00*

2

1.000.00

178.00

32.00

6.00

1.50*

3

2000.00

356.00

63.00

11.00

2.00

4

4000.00

712.00

126.00

22.00

4.00

5

8000.00

1425.00

253.00

45.00

8.00

6

16000.00

2850.00

506.00

90.00

16.00

7

32000.00

5700.00

1012.00

180.00

32.00

8

64000.00

11400.00

2025.00

360.00

64.00

9

128000.00

22800.00

4050.00

720.00

128.00

10

256000.00

45600.00

8100.00

1440.00

256.00

11

512000.00

91200.00

16200.00

2880.00

512.00

12

1024000.00

182400.00

32400.00

5760.00

1024.00

>12

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by the applied oil volume and standardized to 100ml.

Default Values for Particle Typification

Particle Type

Description

Fiber

Length (Feret Max) > 100 µm
and
Length/Width (Feret Max/Feret Min) > 10 µm

Particle

If the particle is not in the range of Fiber, it is a particle.

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

SAE AS 4059 Revision G Aerospace Fluid Power - Contamination Classification for Hydraulic Fluids

Particle Size Class
According to SAE AS 4059 Rev. G, Table 1.1

Size x in µm

Class 1

5 ≤ x < 15

Class 2

15 ≤ x < 25

Class 3

25 ≤ x < 50

Class 4

50 ≤ x < 100

Class 5

100 ≤ x

Particle Size Class
According to SAE AS 4059 Rev. G, Table 2.1

Size x in µm

Class 1

1 ≤ x < ∞

Class 2

5 ≤ x < ∞

Class 3

15 ≤ x < ∞

Class 4

25 ≤ x < ∞

Class 5

50 ≤ x < ∞

Class 6

100 ≤ x < ∞

1. Particle Concentration Classification

Depending on the normalization parameter the particle count per size class is expressed in contamination level as shown in the table:

Particle Count per 100ml up to including, according to SAE AS 4059, Table 2.1
*These values differ from the standard values (0/0/1/1). With the standard values an automated assignment to a contamination level is not possible.

Contamination Level

5 ≤ x < 15

15 ≤ x < 25

25 ≤ x < 50

50 ≤ x < 100

100 ≤ x

00

125.00

22.00

4.00

1.00

0*

0

250.00

44.00

8.00

2.00

0.50*

1

500.00

89.00

16.00

3.00

1.00*

2

1.000.00

178.00

32.00

6.00

1.50*

3

2000.00

356.00

63.00

11.00

2.00

4

4000.00

712.00

126.00

22.00

4.00

5

8000.00

1425.00

253.00

45.00

8.00

6

16000.00

2850.00

506.00

90.00

16.00

7

32000.00

5700.00

1012.00

180.00

32.00

8

64000.00

11400.00

2025.00

360.00

64.00

9

128000.00

22800.00

4050.00

720.00

128.00

10

256000.00

45600.00

8100.00

1440.00

256.00

11

512000.00

91200.00

16200.00

2880.00

512.00

12

1024000.00

182400.00

32400.00

5760.00

1024.00

>12

Particle Count per 100ml up to including, according to SAE AS 4059 Rev G, Table 2.1.
*These values differ from the standard values (0/0/1/1). With the standard values an assignment to a contamination level is not possible.

Contamination Level

1 ≤ x < ∞

5 ≤ x < ∞

15 ≤ x < ∞

25 ≤ x < ∞

50 ≤ x < ∞

100 ≤ x < ∞

000

195.00

76.00

14.00

3.00

1.0

0.00*

00

390.00

152.00

27.00

5.00

1.5

0.25*

0

780.00

304.00

54.00

10.00

2.00

0.50*

1

1560.00

609.00

109.00

20.00

4.00

1.00*

2

3120.00

1217.00

217.00

39.00

7.00

1.50

3

6250.00

2432.00

432.00

76.00

13.00

2.00

4

12500.00

4864.00

864.00

152.00

26.00

4.00

5

25000.00

9731.00

1731.00

306.00

53.00

8.00

6

50000.00

19462.00

3462.00

612.00

106.00

16.00

7

100000.00

38924.00

6924.00

1224.00

212.00

32.00

8

200000.00

77849.00

13849.00

2449.00

424.00

64.00

9

400000.00

155698.00

27698.00

4898.00

848.00

128.00

10

800000.00

311396.00

55396.00

9796.00

1696.00

256.00

11

1600000.00

622792.00

110792.00

19592.00

3392.00

512.00

12

3200000.00

1245584.00

221584.00

39184.00

6784.00

1024.00

>12

2. Normalization

The absolute particle number is divided by the applied oil volume and standardized to 100ml.

Default Values for Particle Typification

Particle Type

Description

Fiber

Length (Feret Max) > 100 µm
and
Length/Width (Feret Max/Feret Min) > 10 µm

Particle

If the particle is not in the range of Fiber, it is a particle.

As a Supervisor, you can edit the values in the Standard Template Editor, see Standard Template Editor.

Occupancy Rate

The occupancy rate is a measurement value to describe the quality of the specimen preparation in terms of particle density, and the distribution of particles on the effective filter area. The calculation is performed as follows:

Sum of the particle area of all detected particles in relation to measurement frame area. Value in %.

For more information, see

3. Core parameter for size class distribution

Length = Feret Max (default use case), see Feret Maximum

Width = Feret Min (default use case), see Feret Minimum

Particle Test Standard (CC) (2010) Slide D45

Provides a standard template for microscope system validation.

Particle Test Standard (CC with OC) (2010) Slide D45

Provides a standard template for microscope system validation.

Comparison of Standards

Comparison by

Component Cleanliness

Oil Cleanliness

Relevant standards

  • VDA 19.1
  • VDA 19.2
  • ISO 16232
  • VDI 2083, Part 21 (medical products)
  • Particle Test Standard (CC) Slide D45
  • ISO 4406
  • ISO 4407
  • GB/T 20082
  • GB/T 14039
  • NAS 1638
  • SAE AS 4059

Job templates

Job template Component Cleanliness Testing (Loaded Images) is supplied with the software.

In the TCA Workflow Editor, you can create individual job templates. You have the following options:

  • Component Cleanliness Testing
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with ML Object Classification
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with ML Object Classification (Loaded Image)
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with S&F
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with S&F and ML Object Classification
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with HM
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with S&F and HM
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with ML Object Classification and HM
  • Component Cleanliness Testing with S&F and ML Object Classification and HM
  • Technical Cleanliness (VDA 19.2 Joint Result)

In the TCA Workflow Editor, you can create individual job templates. You have the following options:

  • Oil Cleanliness Testing
  • Oil Cleanliness Testing (Loaded Images)
  • Oil Cleanliness Testing with S&F
  • Oil Cleanliness Testing with HM
  • Oil Cleanliness Testing with S&F and HM

Effective area

Complete flow through area must be analyzed; i.e. extrapolation of results is not allowed

Extrapolation is allowed; e.g. scan D35 and extrapolation to D41

Normalization

  • Component number (N)
  • Wetted component area (A)
  • Wetted component volume (V)

Applied oil volume (V)

Result interpretation

Focus on large particles and often in practice also on metallic-shiny particles.

Focus mainly on particle count

Analysis (in practice)

Particle size distribution and particle type (metallic-shiny, non-shiny, fiber)

Particle size distribution and particle types (particles and fibers)

Average particle size

5 µm up to ≥ 3000 µm

1 µm up to > 100 µm

Particle size distribution

Differential particle counts
Example:
≥ 5 - 15 µm;
≥ 15 - 25 µm

Methods:

  • Standard
    (50 µm and larger objects)
  • Extended
    (5 µm and larger objects)
  • Differential particle counts
  • Cumulative particle counts
    Example:
    ≥ 5 µm
    ≥ 15 µm

No specific methods.

Cleanliness classes (levels or codes)

One cleanliness code table valid for all particle size classes.

Depending on the standard, one cleanliness code table is valid for all particle size classes or individual code tables per particle size class.

Relative image brightness (Luminosity) & Relative threshold

Image brightness adjustment using the luminosity value and image analysis setting with a corresponding relative threshold.

Image brightness adjustment by exposure time or luminosity and image analysis setting via independent definition of a threshold range or relative threshold.

Image acquisition and camera sensor pixel polarization (default setting)

One multichannel image with Pol- 90° and Pol-135°.

For more information, see Polarization Method.

One single-channel image with Pol-90° (with Axiocam 705 pol). With other Axiocams, polarization contrast is required.

Occupancy rate

Results refer to the complete measurement frame area (=effective filter area).

Results refer to the complete measurement frame area (=effective filter area).

For more information, see Common Characteristics.

Correlative Analysis

The EM/EDS analysis of the correlative workflow is based on the same standards like for LM analysis. The definitions for size classification, normalization and cleanliness codes are identical to LM analysis. This includes as well the default measurement parameter.

The guideline for material classification by EM/EDS is described very detailed in the standards for component cleanliness.

For further information on the technical requirements for material characterization with EM/EDS, refer to the SmartSEM and the SmartPI manual.

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