FoamDDI accurately controls the airflow, temperature and sequence, which is then augmented using a unique VISION algorithm to accurately determine the height of static and dynamic foam heights, while greatly improving the precision and accuracy of ASTM D892.

Foam Digital Detection Imaging

Contamination products with strong surface tension and entrained air can create bubbles and foam. This phenomenon possess adverse effects in machinery and lubricants. Issues such as incomplete oil films, low oil pressures, accelerated oil degradation and additive depletion are all symptoms of high foam tendency, which can produce metal wear, inadequate lubrication, cavitation in pumps and mechanical failures.

Standard Test Method ASTM D892 was developed to determine the foaming characteristics of lubricants oils, by empirically rating their foaming tendency and foam stability. D892 determines a lubricant’s ability to resist foam formation and dissipate foam creation. However, measuring foam heights is a challenge, as it relies on the human “eye” to measure foam heights which introduces significant and biased human errors causing poor repeatability and reproducibility.

The FOAM Digital Detection Imaging (FoamDDI) apparatus is unique in improving the determination of two of the most important performance parameters of lubricants: The Tendency to foam and the Stability of it. FoamDDI accurately controls the airflow, temperature and sequence, which is then augmented using a unique VISION algorithm to accurately determine the height of static and dynamic foam, while greatly improving the precision and accuracy.