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Introduction to FTIR Spectroscopy

Introduction to FTIR Spectroscopy Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy measures additive depletion, contaminant buildup and base stock degradation in lubricants. This type of analysis complements wear metal and other analyses. The principle of the test is that an infrared absorbance spectrum is acquired by passing an infrared beam through a thin layer of static sample.…
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Report Interpretation Tips

Report Interpretation Tips Proper report interpretation is crucial to the success of an oil analysis program; however, many users struggle to decipher the more than 40 pieces of data included on a routine report. The best procedure is to read the whole report in a methodical order, section by section. The following three tips will…
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Introduction to Particle Counting

Introduction to Particle Counting Particle counting may be performed using two different techniques, each with its own limitations and interferences, but one aspect they share in common is that they are both only a quantitative count. Neither method identifies the composition or source of the particles, they only provide a level of particles per ml…
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IMPORTANT REPORT UPGRADES – Particle Count Reporting

IMPORTANT REPORT UPGRADES Particle Count Reporting TestOil has improved our method for reporting particle count limits to make it easier to review and interpret oil analysis test results TestOil has upgraded our oil analysis reports to include the ISO code limits for both the Pore Blockage and the Optical Particle Count tests. The limits will…
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Oil Analysis Trending vs. Alarm Limits

Oil Analysis Trending vs. Alarm Limits Many static alarm limits are based on statistical analysis of a common grouping of machines under similar operating conditions. As long as machine is operated under similar conditions (load, speed, temperature, ambient environment) for a similar sampling and drain interval, the limits may have merit. [caption id="attachment_9345" align="alignright" width="146"]…
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Sources of Potassium

Sources of Potassium Potassium is an indicator of a coolant leak, often in conjunction with sodium and/or boron; these elements are present due to the additives used in many coolant formulations. The presence of these elements alongside detected glycol and water often indicate a severe or bottom-end leak, but the absence of glycol and water…
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