FLUID AND CONDITION MONITORING TESTS SUITE
Our expert diagnosticians perform a variety of tests on your fluid sample at our laboratory before interpreting the results.
Wear metal analysis
Analyses concentration of microscopic (<10 microns) wear elements and contaminants using I.C.P. reporting in parts per million ( PPM ). Currently, we test for twenty-one (21) elements.
Viscosity test
Carried out on all samples. Viscosity is measured in Centistokes at 40 degrees Centigrade and at 100 degrees Centigrade ( if required ) and is the most important physical property regarding lubrication. Viscosity index can also be calculated and reported if required which is valuable in confirming the multi-grade properties of an oil.
F T – I R test
Carried out on all engine oil samples to test actual oil condition compared to the new oil used. Levels of Soot, Oxidation, Sulphation and Nitration in used oils are measured. Test also indicates any suspected fuel, water or antifreeze contamination. Selected transmission oils are tested for oxidation level which may be of concern if extending the oil change interval.
Particle quantifier test and microscopic examination
Results are based on ferrous particles in oil. Samples with very high PQ values and where certain wear elements are high, further examinations may be undertaken to determine large metal particle presence. Slides are prepared and viewed under a light microscope. Images from which can be "grabbed" and printed out or emailed if required. Shape and size of abnormal particles helps to determine exactly what may be failing
Fuel dilution test
Conducted on engine oil samples where fuel dilution is suspected, indicated by a drop in viscosity. The actual percentage of fuel in the sample is determined by a drop in the flashpoint of the used oil compared to that of the new oil.
Water test
A simple positive/negative water test is carried out on all samples. This is accomplished by dropping a small amount of oil onto a hotplate which is at 150 degrees C. Any water in the sample boils off, causing bubbles to appear. The amount of water present is reported by comparing the number of bubbles in the sample to that of pre-prepared standards.
Magnetic test
On completion of all other tests, a magnetic dip test is carried out if abnormal readings such as high PQ have been recorded. This involves stirring a magnet in selected samples to attract pieces of ferrous metal too large to pick up with I.C.P. analysis. This gives the interpreters valuable visual information on the particles present in the sample. Photographs of the debris can be uploaded against the actual sample in Equipment Commander so the client can see exactly what we saw in the lab.
Base number and acid test
Carried out on request on selected samples but this test is carried out routinely on all gas (S.I.) engines. It determines the level of alkalinity reserve of the oil which is needed to combat organic and inorganic acids formed during combustion. They are very important tests for GAS engines, especially those running on "dirty" gas as the oil can be degraded rapidly by compounds formed during combustion from the fuel.
Particle count
The instrument counts and sizes all particles present in the sample and reports an Internationally recognised cleanliness code. Recently, there has been increased recognition of the importance in assuring the cleanliness of oil, particularly within hydraulics and transmissions. Greatly increased component life can be expected by maintaining oil cleanliness at a certain level. Particle Count measurement is the procedure recommended by the International Standards Organisation (ISO) for establishing fluid cleanliness levels.
Karl Fischer moisture test
Determines precise amount of water present reported in PPM or percent. Carried out on selected samples only - normally units such as turbines, gas engine samples & air compressors.