TD 19007-01 

Dear Mr. Chin, 
Laboratory analysis has been completed on the unknown solid particles taken from a filter canister servicing a mixer gearbox, submitted on behalf of Yii-kei trading Co. LTD and your customer, Formosa Chemicals & Fibre Corporation. The purpose of our analysis was to identify the unknown particles taken from the filter housing.  Our results are attached for your review. 

Results 

Infrared analysis of this sample was inconclusive, and we were unable to identify the composition of the particles. Elemental analysis was not able to identify the source or make-up of these chips as they were not soluble and are larger than five microns. Elemental can only detect particles smaller than five microns in size. Elemental analysis was done on the limited amount of oil that coated these particles and the container. Elemental analysis shows elevated levels of aluminum, chromium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, nickel, and titanium. Levels of barium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, silicon, and sodium were also identified. Aluminum, iron and lead are common elements found in paint and may point to the origination of the particles. Note that when an insufficient amount of lubricant is analyzed, results can be suspect. For this reason, we suggest submitting a representative sample of oil for analysis to determine oil condition and identify potential contaminants. When examined under a microscope at 20X magnification, the unknown particles appear to be paint chips from an unknown source, see Figure 1 below. It is not uncommon for the inside of some gearboxes to be painted as an additional barrier for rust and corrosion.  

1919 East Tulsa St. Wichita, KS 67216                        LE PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED UNDER AN  
817-916-3200 • FAX: 800-228-1142                            ISO 9001:2015 CERTIFIED QUALITY SYSTEM  

 

Figure 1: Unknown particles seen at 20X magnification 

Conclusions and Recommendations 

While we were not able to identify the origin, or the composition of the particles delivered for analysis, these particles under 20X magnification appear to be from a protective coating on the inside of the gearbox. The source of the particles should be identified and eliminated. We inspected all available retains for LE 1606 and were able to verify that these particulates were not present. The inside of the gearbox should be inspected for foreign debris and to determine if there is an internal coating that is wearing. We recommend draining, flushing, and refilling this unit and confirming that LE 1606 meets the OEM lubricant requirements. We recommend submitting a representative sample of oil to determine the condition of the oil and identify any potential contaminants. 

We hope this information is useful to you in working with Yii-kei trading Co. LTD and your customer, Formosa Chemicals & Fibre Corporation.  If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to let us know. 

Sincerely,

Patrick Loe, CLS 
Technical Services Engineer 
/bf 

 

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