We often get questions on the difference between the various types of lubricating oils: mineral based, synthetic-based and bio-based oil. We will deal with mineral and bio based oils in subsequent issues. A symplistic explanation is that mineral oils are refined petroleum products whereas bio-based oils (most being vegetable oils), are extracted from various crops such as soya, corn, canola, etc. A fourth type of oil, namely re-refined oil is also considered as base oil. However, in this article will be focusing solely on synthetic oil.

In the previous issue of this Newsletter we have seen how total water hardness in coolants may lead to corrosivity due to to high calcium and magnesium content. Total hardness however, is just one test among many others for coolants.

Following our investment in a brand new oil analysis laboratory in the City of Hammond IN (Greater Chicago area), Tribologik Corporation has been awarded a "Star of the Lakeshore" investment certificate at the February 15 Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce's (NorthWest Indiana) awards dinner.

As stated in a previous issue, over 40% of all maintenance problems on diesel engines can be attributed to poor maintenance of the cooling system. Coolants allow for the raising of boiling temperature and/or improving resistance to frost. They prevent engines from freezing and overheating and protect components against corrosion.

Downtime reduction, time and money savings on spare parts and maintenance costs, keeping equipment in optimal operating condition are the most commonly quoted benefits of oil analysis, and for good reason.