Introduction to lubricating oil analysis
Lubricating oil analysis is a series of laboratory tests used to evaluate the condition of lubricants and equipment components. By studying the results of the oil analysis tests, a determination of equipment/component condition can be made. Primarily, this is possible because of the cause-and-effect relationship of the condition of the lubricant to the condition of the component sampled. Many of these cause-and-effect situations are outlined.
Oil performs several vital functions with many of them being interrelated. The ability of the oil to perform as designed can be determined by oil analysis. Following is a list of some primary lubricant functions that can be evaluated:
• Friction control
• Corrosion control
• Contaminant control
• Shock control
• Hydraulic pressure
• Wear control
• Temperature control
• Sealing function
The inspection or analysis of lubricating oil has been used to check and evaluate the internal condition of oil-lubricated equipment since the beginning of the industrial age. Early methods included smelling the oil to detect the sour odor of excess acidity, rubbing it between finger tips to check lubricity, and observing its color and clarity for signs of contamination.
Today, oil analysis uses modern technology and laboratory instruments to determine equipment condition and lubricant serviceability. Oil analysis uses state of the art equipment and techniques to provide the user with invaluable information leading to greater equipment reliability.
