Oil Analysis Test Frequency Guidelines
There is no universal formula for determining oil sampling frequency, but most experts consider monthly sampling to be optimum for critical machinery. However, when making this decision, it is important to consider the objectives of the oil analysis program. If the only objective is to perform condition-based oil changes, the sampling frequency should be determined relative to the lubricant’s expected service life, which is defined by the OEM recommended oil change frequencies.
In most situations, this is not the only objective, or even the most important one. The real value of oil analysis is its ability to serve as a proactive condition-monitoring tool, allowing for the detection and quantification of particle contamination, moisture, foreign lubricants or fluids and assessing overall lubricant condition.
In addition to the criticality of the asset, one must consider how the machine would be effected by an unacceptable amount of contamination and the likelihood of a contamination or other abnormal condition. If oil analysis is used as a predictive condition-monitoring tool, the biggest consideration is the likely time period between detection and failure. this may change as the oil or the equipment reaches the end of its life expectancy. Obviously, the sampling frequency must be shorter than this period to be successful.
The following tables provides general recommendations for the frequency of testing for several machine types, cross-referenced with suggested routine tests. Depending on the historical reliability of a machine, or any known, on-going issues, additional tests or alternate frequencies may be in order. Please contact TestOil for expert advice.
Test Frequency Guidelines >>
