Metal particle detector apparatus for non-conducting fluid systems

Abstract

A metal particle detector apparatus for use with flowing non-conductive fluid such as lubrication oil from an engine or other rotary device wherein the lubricated components include bearings or the like susceptible to failure, thereby placing harmful metal particles in the non-conductive fluid. A circuit grid comprising two electrodes affixed on a perforated electrically non-conductive plate which is disposed in the fluid flow in a manner which will catch the particles being carried by the fluid and when one, or an accumulation of these particles bridges the gap between electrodes completes an electrical circuit passing into the device from outside. In one embodiment, a primary and secondary seal are provided for sealing fluid against leaking into the electrical chamber leading to the electrical circuit or alarm system while still permitting the electrical circuit system to be electrically connected to the detector unit which is disposed in the flowing fluid. Compressible O-ring seals are used. A detector drain is provided for permitting the flow of fluid out of the housing of the detector if the primary seal begins to fail, acting first as a way to prevent oil from entering the chamber containing the electrical wiring for the alarm system and secondly as an indication to the user of when the detector seal is beginning to fail.