Particle Count Analysis

Particle count analysis quantifies contamination in hydraulic and lubrication fluids according to the ISO 4406 cleanliness standard. The cleanliness code directly determines whether a fluid is fit for purpose in a given hydraulic circuit. ORDNEX coordinates particle count testing through qualified UAE-based laboratory partners.

PURPOSE & ENGINEERING VALUE

ISO 4406 Cleanliness Standard

The ISO 4406:2021 standard expresses hydraulic cleanliness as a three-digit code representing particle concentrations at three size thresholds. Each digit represents a range code — higher numbers indicate more particles and lower cleanliness.

Component manufacturers specify the required cleanliness code for their equipment. Failure to achieve the required cleanliness level directly reduces component life.

Typical Report Turnaround

24 to 48 hours for standard particle count analysis.

ORDNEX coordinates testing through qualified laboratory partners. Turnaround times are subject to laboratory capacity and sample condition.

ISO CLEANLINESS REFERENCE

Typical ISO 4406 Target Codes by System Type

ISO 14/12/9

Servo valves, high-pressure hydraulicsVery high — small particles cause spool sticking and flow instability

ISO 16/14/11

Proportional valves, vane and piston pumpsHigh — used for precision hydraulic systems on vessels and platforms

ISO 17/15/12

Directional control valves, hydraulic cylindersMedium — general marine deck machinery and crane circuits

ISO 18/16/13

Gear pumps, low-pressure hydraulicsMedium-low — general industrial hydraulics and deck winches

ISO 20/18/15

Lubrication systems, low-sensitivity circuitsLow — general circulation and sump lubrication systems

ISO 22/20/17

Hydraulic return lines, heavily contaminated systemsVery low — indicates need for full system flushing and filter replacement

TEST PARAMETERS

Particle Count ≥4 µm(c)Counts particles in the smallest reported size band. Corresponds to the first ISO code digit. These fine particles affect sensitive valve clearances.

Particle Count ≥6 µm(c)The primary sensitivity size for most hydraulic components. Corresponds to the second ISO code digit.

Particle Count ≥14 µm(c)Larger particles capable of causing visible scoring and rapid wear. Corresponds to the third ISO code digit.

ISO 4406:2021 Cleanliness CodeThe standardised three-digit code derived from particle count results, used to specify and verify hydraulic fluid cleanliness.

Water Content (where applicable)Combined with particle count to provide a complete fluid cleanliness assessment in a single report.

Patch Test / MicroscopyOptional visual examination of collected particles to identify their morphology — angular particles from cutting wear, spherical from fatigue, fibrous from filter media.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

System Categories

·Steering gear hydraulic systems

·CPP propeller hydraulic oil circuits

·Deck crane and davit systems

·Windlass and anchor handling units

·Stabiliser fin hydraulic systems

·Industrial machine tool hydraulics

·Offshore BOP hydraulic systems

·After system maintenance or flushing

INDUSTRIES SERVED

Operational Sectors

·Commercial Shipping

·Offshore Support Vessels

·Ports & Terminals

·Naval & Coast Guard

·Industrial Manufacturing

·Marine Contractors

·Oil & Gas Platforms

·Shipyards

Related Services

Hydraulic Oil Analysis →Wear Metal Analysis →Lubricating Oil Analysis →

LABORATORY INTAKE

Submit a Particle Count Analysis Request

Provide system type, required ISO cleanliness target, fluid specification, and sampling point. ORDNEX will coordinate collection and laboratory routing.