What is EN ISO 4407:2017

EN ISO 4407:2017 is a professional technical standard that relates to fluid power systems. It provides guidelines for the determination of the contamination level of hydraulic fluids, which is crucial for assessing system performance and ensuring efficient operation. This article aims to shed light on the key aspects of this standard, including its scope, methodology, and significance in the industry.

The Scope of EN ISO 4407:2017

EN ISO 4407:2017 applies specifically to hydraulic fluids used in fluid power systems. Its primary goal is to define a clear methodology for measuring and classifying the levels of particulate contamination present in hydraulic fluids. The standard outlines specific procedures for sample collection, preparation, and analysis. Additionally, it establishes particle count codes that facilitate consistent reporting of contamination levels across various industries and applications.

Methodology of EN ISO 4407:2017

The methodology described in EN ISO 4407:2017 involves the use of automatic particle counters (APCs) to determine the number and size distribution of particles in hydraulic fluids. The standard provides detailed instructions on sampling methods, including appropriate locations within the hydraulic system and specific sample volumes required. The collected samples are then analyzed using APCs, which count and size particles based on their optical properties. The results are reported as a three-number code, representing the number of particles of different size ranges per milliliter of fluid.

Significance in the Industry

EN ISO 4407:2017 is of great importance in the fluid power industry due to several reasons. Firstly, it allows manufacturers and users to assess the cleanliness of hydraulic fluids and establish quality control measures. Maintaining the recommended contamination levels helps ensure optimal system performance, reduces downtime, and extends the lifespan of equipment. Secondly, the standard enables efficient communication and comparison of contamination data across different suppliers and end-users. This enhances the overall transparency and consistency in fluid power systems.