Trib Inc. developed an algorithm analyzing Lube Events for a diesel turbo compressor's journal bearings.  The algorithm is to be a part of a group of algorithms that are a part of a Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) System developed by RLW Inc. The CBM system is under development specifically for Caterpillar 3500 and 3600 series diesel engines.

The Trib Inc. algorithm uses data from transducers that monitor oil inlet pressure and temperature to the turbo compressor's journal bearings.  Based on the sensor readings a lube event is identified. A lube event is defined as an instant in which the sensed oil pressure and/or oil temperature is outside the desired operating ranges  as established by the diesel's manufacturer, specifically Caterpillar. From the magnitude of the lube event a Remaining Useful Life (RUL) is determined and reported to the operator.

By tracking lube events and estimating RUL, the diesel operator will now be able to predict pending turbo compressor failure, greatly reducing the event of a catastrophic failure.  The cost of catastrophic failure is $90,000 whereas replacing the turbo compressor is  only $6,000.  This is a reduction of cost by a factor of 15.