The very first step of oil analysis doesn’t take place at the laboratory. It takes place at your plant or maintenance facility from the moment you extract the oil sample to be tested from your equipment. Proper oil sampling is the number one condition for accurate test results. It is as crucial as the calibration of the laboratory instruments and the strict observance of the testing procedures.

Soot is composed of a number of chemical components resulting from incomplete fuel combustion (gasoline, diesel, bunker, kerosene). It is present in the form of dark, carbon-rich tar-like solid substances called carbon soot or black carbon.

Coolants, like lubricants, are essential fluids in order to maintain engines and all heat generating mechanical systems in good working order. Glycol is the main ingredient of coolants for diesel, gasoline or gas engines. Antifreeze liquids usually consist of 50/50 glycol with water mixtures.

As mentioned in the June 2011 article, there are four contaminants extremely harmful to oil. Being primary causes of the degradation of motor oils and equipment failures, they must be monitored closely and analyzed on a regular basis.

Water is one of the most destructive contaminants of oil. Water attacks additives, generates oxidation and modifies the vapor pressure of oil; it corrodes metal surfaces, facilitates emulsions, blocks filters and hinders in the formation of the protective film. Water increases dramatically the corrosive potential of acids present in oil. In diesel engines, light contamination is normal, however, critical to certain hydraulic equipment and compressors. Severe contamination deserves close attention and will seldom be suppressed with an oil change.