It is important to know the condition of your oil to keep your machine running well, and this is achieved through a thorough oil analysis that tracks a range of oil characteristics associated with wear and tear by comparing them with previous analysis reports. This level of analysis can identify contamination, degradation of lubricating oil, general mechanical wear and other problems. It can also change the lubrication project from time-based to condition-based, reducing unnecessary changes. Today we're going to talk about the signals that tell you it's time for an oil change.

1. Total base value

Measure the oxide content of the lubricating oil from the start of the operation to this point. It can detect the performance of the lubricating oil, or see the warning that the lubricating oil should be replaced. With the use of lubricating oil, the oil is exposed to the air, where the oxide level continues to rise, and the efficiency of the oil gradually decreases. If the total acid value far exceeds its initial value, it is a warning sign of a lubricating oil problem. Equally important is the number of particles in a lubricating system. This indicator tells people how clean the lubricating oil is and the performance status of the filtration system. Impurities and other stains will continue to accumulate, reducing the efficiency of the oil. A good filtration system can extend the time it takes to do the test. But if the number of particles far exceeds its initial value, it is also a good signal: it is time to change the oil.

2. Water

Water is the natural enemy of lubricating oil. Especially in a humid environment, the lubricating oil is directly exposed to water or steam, and the water-containing lubricating oil will be greatly reduced. Different lubricants have different tolerances for water content. For example, polyglycol is more resistant to water than polyalpha-olefin products. Each lubricant has its own acceptable moisture content guidelines, which can be obtained from the lubricant supplier. No matter what lubricant you use, excessive water content is a serious warning sign: Change oil now!

3. Metal

Metal analysis can reveal the wear data in the lubrication system and the performance of some additives. The metals in the lubricant are the result of both additives in the fluid and wear, depending on the lubricant type and system structure. A typical sample of the oil locks onto the metals in a common engine, such as copper, aluminum and iron, which can measure the amount of metal that is "sucked" by the oil. Just like the water content, different lubricants also have different metal content tolerances. In addition, plant managers who have performed metal tests and found that an oil change is required should consult their lubricant supplier to find the best solution.

4. Particle analysis

Particle analysis can help test for metal contamination and ensure that the lubrication system has a good filter, so that the time necessary for oil changes can be greatly extended.

5. Viscosity

Perhaps the simplest lubricating oil wear test is the kinematic viscosity of the lubricating oil, which can be said to be the concentration. By tracking the quantity of lubricating oil in the operation, it is easy to detect its increasing viscosity. The increase in viscosity is directly related to lubricating wear, and the most important rule to remember is to replace the oil as soon as the viscosity of the oil increases by 10%.