Engine Oil Analysis

The purpose of this page is to describe engine oil analysis, an overview of how it works; how to sample, and the benefits to the client when they use it.

Engine oil testing is a specific set of laboratory procedures. It accurately determines from the sample: normal or problematic conditions from data that is normal, abnormal or severe; what is causing the results found; and corrective actions, maintenance that is necessary to correct problem/s as they are found. The data and evaluations are integrated into a complete report. Engine oil analysis is proven in many case histories to be cost-effective and an accurate means of assessing internal engine health; and advising maintenance that will improve that health. It’s fundamental to a reliable preventive maintenance program.

A representative sample of the unit, an engine for example, is submitted. The best way for a new client to take a representative sample is at a drain. Back off the drain bolt until flow is started and allow the first part to run. That purges the opening. Then with oil flowing catch a small amount of lubricant in the sampling bottle. Two ounces is adequate. Check that the bottle screw cap is on securely prior to sending. Include: the unit id - license number or equip id; total miles or hours since new; time of use miles or hours since the last oil change; lubricant used and its viscosity grade. Oil Science Lab will take it from there. If there are any of these areas that aren’t clear we advise use the quote or contact us links.

Lube oil can be sampled by siphon pump as well, through the dipstick port for example. Either at drain port, or siphon pump, is a representative sampling procedure. The sample will be good, representative, by either method.

The effectiveness of oil testing comes from the remarkable ability of a lubricant to contain a precise set of chemical fingerprints that exactly reflect the internal conditions- all of them- of the unit that is being tested. This is also referred to as a mirror image in chemistry and physical science terms. As the lubricant is in service it picks up microscopic remnants and also undergoes measurable changes during its use cycle. Normally it occurs at slow rate over time but is measureable.

The how much;the quantitative measuring;

of all of these enable a very accurate picture of the unit’s health; if there is a problem or a potential problem that can be corrected through good maintenance; if there are symptomatic conditions; or and we hope it is,  totally ‘healthy’.  Oil Science Lab takes a very objective and friendly view: solve the identified problem and don’t make anything personal.

Oil Science Lab employs a 27 point test procedure that we have highly developed over the years. All relevant data is included. It is an integrated report. Those that are familiar with this labs oil testing report know the effectiveness of it to the user. It’s “The best they’ve seen”, as one trucking manager put it.

Question: what can your service do for me and my business? The previous discussion has hopefully outlined: testing to define and identify any problems as they may be found; determine source of the problem; recommend sound maintenance to correct the problem. Oil Science Laboratory clients have achieved one or more of these:

• Saving serious money by avoiding failure.
• Maximum extension of unit service life, mtbf maximization.
• More efficient use of manpower, facilities, costs, materials.
• Scheduling maintenance, not emergency maintenance.
• Legal support. Warranty assistance.
• Extending fleet drain intervals.