TestOil offers two coolant test packages that are conducted in their world class lab. The coolant standard slate, which delivers same day results, includes:
- Glycol Concentration (%)
- Specific Conductance (Conductivity) (uS/cm)
- Freeze Point (degrees C)
- Total Dissolved Solids
- Boil Point ( degrees C)
- Elemental Analysis by ICP (ppm)
- pH
- Total Hardness as CaCO3
- Visual Analysis
- Nitrites (mg/L)
Benefits include extending drain intervals, avoiding failures, improving fluid condition, reducing component failure/downtime and improving lifecycle management. The final comprehensive report delivers a clear picture of the coolant in the following seven sections:
- Fluid Condition: Glycol concentration shows whether the right mix ratio is being employed (water to glycol); when lower than expected there is likely inadequate protection for the cooling system and engine, and when higher than expected there will be a loss of heat transfer capabilities. Freeze and boiling points are dependent on glycol percent and are an indicator of the expected operating temperature range. In addition, pH is the primary indicator for degradation and/or contamination of coolant/antifreeze.
- Observations (Visual Analysis): Color, clarity, and foam provide an overview of the physical appearance of the coolant--any change will indicate likely degradation and/or contamination. Odors are checked for signs of contamination due to adverse conditions within the cooling system. Particles can appear for a number of reasons including a poor source of water (used to dilute concentrated glycol), corrosion, cavitation or defective electrical grounds.
- Contamination: An increase in conductivity indicates contamination originating from the water supply, such as hardness and fluoride, or combustion gases; sudden changes may be the result of overdosing inhibitor or concentrate, or mixing with another coolant. The presence of these contaminants can lead to scale and/or corrosion within the cooling system.
- Degradation: Glycolate indicates the primary breakdown of the glycol portion of the coolant which is generally caused by localized overheating or an air leak (i.e., combustion blow-by) within the system. Acetate, oxalate, and formate are all signs that degradation has progressed into a more severe, secondary stage of degradation.
- Inorganic Additives: The presence and concentration of additives will vary from one coolant to another and should be compared to the new fluid reference; the presence of additives not seen in the reference coolant indicates that mixing with another coolant has likely occurred, and may void the OEM warranty.
- Organic Acid Technology: The presence and concentration of these additives will appear in some Extended Life Coolants (ELC) and should be compared to the new fluid reference.
- Wear: Wear metals are most commonly signs of corrosion (driven by low or incorrect additives) or cavitation (driven by air leaks). They may also appear due to grounding faults, localized hot spots, or a poor water source.
With TestOil’s onsite field services, TestOil PRO—our coolant testing experts will be able to assess and monitor individual situations onsite. They can set up testing programs that simplify and streamline the coolant testing program for companies with fleets requiring multiple coolants. For more information on working with TestOil for coolant analysis and training visit www.testoil.com. Contact: 216-251-2510; sales@testoil.com. For more information on working with TestOil for coolant analysis and training visit www.testoil.com. Contact: 216-251-2510; sales@testoil.com
