Hastings Deering Condition Monitoring Center - Capability
Overview
Hastings Deering has operated a laboratory since 1973. We are the largest Caterpillar Dealer lab in the world. Our primary capability is the analysis of fluids that impact the performance of machinery. The facility operates around the clock, five days a week. Our dedicated team of over fifty specialists (scientists, technicians, analysts, chemists, interpreters, microscopists, and administration) work diligently to process your samples in a timely manner.
The lab conducts analyses for Caterpillar and other manufacturers of equipment in a diverse range of industries including mining, construction, power generation, marine, military, aviation, manufacturing, quarrying, transportation, rail, agriculture and private.
Analysis
Hastings Deering has a range of testing to suit nearly any applications to optimize the productive life of machinery. Analysis can be performed on lubricating oil, grease, coolant, diesel, emulsion fluids and particle wear debris analysis. Sample kits are easily identified, making it simple to determine the correct analysis for the job with a single payment including postage, analysis, and reporting. Analysis of the routine oil samples can be completed in as little as 24 hours from receipt of the sample. The majority of testing conforms to ASTM methodology and includes appropriate calibrations and quality control samples to provide assurance of reliable results.
Reporting
Oil Commander is a complete web-based system for managing your samples, from site registration through the laboratory process and then viewing the results for action. The system consists of two main sections: -
- Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
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Manages the sample allowing the printing of the label through to the sample registration, laboratory testing, interpretation of the sample analytes and delivery of the report by via email.
- Customer Interface
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Allows customers to view the status of their samples and view its details. This includes viewing a component's full history in tabular format or graphically.
Oil Commander also incorporates a message log to manage all communications about each sample result. Actions taken are recorded, enabling tracking of actions undertaken to rectify particular problems identified by the analysis.
The entire system is configured for exception management; using colour coding enables the easy identification of results requiring action. Samples are categorised based on perceived action required: -
- A: No action required
- B: Action may be required
- C: Action is required
- X: Immediate critical action is required
Customised severity reports are available at no extra cost and may be emailed to selected recipients.
Training and Support
Over the many years of providing fluid sample analyses to our customers, the biggest risks have been timely delivery of samples to the lab and appropriate identification. To alleviate this, training is available through our laboratory product support representatives and can be either performed on site or at required locations. Training can consist of one or all of the following: -
- Correct sample collection techniques
- Report data interpretation
- Navigation of Oil Commander software
Onsite fluid analysis audits are available to assist in identifying potential areas for improvement of your Condition Monitoring program.
Working closely with the Condition Monitoring - Remote Asset Health team, electronic data can be closely monitored in conjunction with the equipment’s health. Any fault codes or issues are combined with fluid analysis data and evaluated to provide a comprehensive report and recommendation for corrective action. Reporting may be based on complete fleets or a single machine and may be customized to suit requirements.
