Oil Analysis Laboratory

March 21, 2012

Many industries rely on oil analysis to gauge the condition of equipment by identifying components in the oil. Oil analysis is done inside an oil analysis laboratory. The processes involved look into the contaminants, additives and wear debris present in the oil. This is the quickest way to find out how a machine is running.

Tribologists work in laboratories that perform oil analysis. These professionals test oil for contaminants. They also analyze and interpret the results. Their findings determine the performance of the engine, current and potential problems and how long a machine can last. These test usually take 24 to 48 hours. Oil laboratories make sure that they send the results to customers as fast as possible. This is essential in ensuring that equipment runs smoothly.

An oil laboratory can do testing for oil-generated or lubricated machines. Although some of them specialize in equipment for the automotive or aviation industries, they are all capable of testing oil from any machine. Oil analysis laboratories contain sophisticated technology that technicians use to perform lubricant and wear particle analysis, fuel and coolant testing and transformer oil analysis.

In addition, all equipment and testing techniques used in professional analysis labs should adhere to ASTM and ISO standards. This is to ensure customers that they are getting the most reliable results. Oil testing lab facilities provide a complete analysis report. These reports should include graphs, tables, recommendations, ratings and other relevant information.

Industrial companies should be very careful in choosing the right laboratory to trust. The facility should offer same-day turnaround on all tests performed. Results from oil testing are often very crucial and urgent. A slight equipment malfunction can cause a business to lose a significant amount of profit. Another consideration is the availability of alert notification services. A good lab should report abnormal findings promptly to machine owners. Alert notifications should be transmitted by e-mail, telephone, fax or text message.

Furthermore, labs should provide companies with a depth report. This should include all relevant information in a readable form. The range covered on oil tests does matter. A good lab offers a wide array of services and tests. It should not only provide the basic oil tests. A quality lab will also perform a substantial number of exception tests. Most importantly, business owners should choose a certified ASTM and ISO oil analysis laboratory. These labs will always provide reliable and accurate results.

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