What is a chip detector and what does it indicate?

• A. It is a sensor in the oil system that detects ferrous metal particles; indicates bearing or gear wear and may trigger immediate shutdown.
• B. It is a sensor that monitors oil temperature to prevent overheating.
• C. It is a sensor in the fuel system that detects water contamination.
• D. It is a sensor in the air intake that measures particle count.

Answer: (A)

A chip detector is a magnetic sensor in the oil system that looks for ferrous metal particles shed by moving parts like bearings and gears. When such metal debris is present, the detector senses it and a warning or shutdown can be triggered to prevent more serious damage. It specifically detects magnetic, ferrous particles, so it’s not about oil temperature, water in fuel, or air particle count—those are handled by other sensors.