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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Understanding Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy
Understanding Fourier Transform Infrared (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…
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Sources of Barium
Sources of Barium Barium was a detergent additive metal found in natural gas engine oils but is no longer allowed in products manufactured in North America due to toxicity concerns Greases, though, continue to use barium in the form of a thickener system. Machines with greased seals or those having undergone recent maintenance may exhibit…
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Sources of Zinc
Sources of Zinc Zinc is an additive metal found in all anti-wear (AW) additive packages. Only when the zinc level deviates more than 25% from the new oil or reference value should a concern be raised, but the likeliest cause is mixing or topping off with a different product. The zinc level in AW oils…
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Sources of Phosphorus
Sources of Phosphorus Phosphorus is an additive metal found in all anti-wear (AW) and extreme pressure (EP) additive packages. Only when the phosphorus level deviates more than 25% from the new oil or reference value should a concern be raised, but the likeliest cause is mixing or topping-off with a different product. AW oils can…
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Sources of Magnesium
Sources of Magnesium Magnesium is an additive metal commonly used in detergent additives. Only when the magnesium level deviates more than 25% from the new oil or reference value should a concern be raised, but the likeliest cause if mixing or topping-off with a different product. With normal and expected additive depletion due to usage,…
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