Category Archives: Advanced Testing

FTIR vs. RULER

FTIR vs. RULER Let's start by explaining the FTIR index numbers and then we’ll get in to the correlation between tests. The indexing numbers actually refer to a unit of measure. The unit is absorbance/0.1mm. However, this unit of measure is not one that is intuitive to most people so the results are referenced as…
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Testing Lubricants for Compatibility

Testing Lubricants for Compatibility TestOil offers lubricant compatibility analysis using ASTM D 7155 as the guideline for compatibility testing. If test results show signs of minor incompatibility you must evaluate the potential impact. Do the mixtures show a decreased ability to resist oxidation? Will this result in a shortened lubricant life and therefore increased cost…
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Identify Varnish Potential and Avoid Unexpected Downtime

Identify Varnish Potential and Avoid Unexpected Downtime The lubricating oil in gas turbines and hydraulic systems is increasingly subject to the ravages of varnish.  The debilitating effects of varnish are well documented.  The complexities associated with detecting varnish potential render routine oil analysis ineffective in reporting varnish. However, there are a number of technologies, although…
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Compatibility of Turbine Lubricating Oils

ASTM D 7155 - Evaluating Compatibility of Mixtures of Turbine Lubricating Oils is Used as the Guideline for Compatibility Testing The method calls for two Tiers of testing. For Tier I, the method calls for preparing mixtures of the fluids to be evaluated, heating the fluids and the mixtures in an oven to a specified…
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Understanding Oil Viscosity: The Thick and Thin of It

Understanding Oil Viscosity: The Thick and Thin of It If you have a gearbox with a manufacturer’s nameplate instructing you to use the American Gear Manufacturer’s Association (AGMA) #4 viscosity oil at a given operating temperature, or if it specified a 750 SSU viscosity oil, would you know exactly what viscosity oil you need? If…
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When Routine Oil Analysis Isn’t Enough, Get Answers With MIA

When Routine Oil Analysis Isn't Enough, Get Answers With MIA Case Study: Hydrogen Sulfide Gas Compressor A sample of Royal Purple Synfilm NGL 100 from a hydrogen sulfide gas compressor was submitted for Material Identification Analysis (MIA) testing. It was reported that the oil heat exchangers appeared to be clogging which reduces flow and cooling.…
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