Patent ID: 9488612
Filing Date: 2016-11-08
CPC Classification: G01N

Claim Text:
1. A method of determining the compatibility of a lubricating fluid with an energized electrical or electronic component, the method comprising: (a) contacting a test apparatus with the fluid; (b) applying a direct electrical current to the test apparatus; and (c) monitoring the current flow through the test apparatus over time; wherein the test apparatus comprises at least one pair of conductors separated by an insulator; wherein the insulator does not extend across the whole of the opposing surfaces of the conductors; wherein the or each pair of conductors comprises two identical conducting strips of rectangular form arranged substantially congruently and separated by the insulator; wherein the insulator comprises two annular spacers or washers which are interposed between the conducting strips and held in place via holes in the conducting strips using insulating fasteners; wherein the spacers or washers are adapted so as to have channels or grooves on at least one face; and wherein the direct electrical current is applied across the or each pair of conductors.