Performing the analysis of lubricating oil is one of the main ways to guarantee the extension of the useful life of the equipment, as well as to improve the performance and avoid unnecessary (and high) expenses with maintenance. This is because the oil in proper conditions guarantees the perfect functioning of the system.
It should be noted that the lubricating oil, even when changed, still conserves contamination residues from the previous oil. Thus, the lack of proper treatment can result in many losses for companies. Among the main problems are:
- Stopped machines;
- Slow performance;
- Low productivity;
- Difficulty of operation;
- Increased maintenance expenses;
- Need for spare parts;
- Accelerated wear of equipment;
Therefore, experts in the field explain that performing the analysis of lubricating oil is of fundamental importance. This helps to detect, as well as solve, problems at an early stage, preventing significant losses.
How is the analysis of lubricating oil performed?
It is worth remembering that lubricating oil is responsible for minimizing wear and friction between machine components. It also transports solid and liquid waste to the filter element. It cools by absorbing the heat generated on the friction surfaces and performs the heat exchange with the environment. It forms a layer on the surface and protects against corrosion and deposits on parts. (these are lubricant functions)
For the filtering result to reach even higher levels, it is important to invest in cutting-edge technologies, such as microfiltration, for example. Therefore, it is essential that the lubricating oil has a constant monitoring. The best way to accomplish this is by analyzing the lubricating oil.
The analysis of lubricating oil is performed after collecting a sample from the machine, which is taken for analysis in the laboratory. It is important to note that different analyzes can take place, as different samples can be collected from different parts of the equipment.
Analysis of Lubricating Oil and Tribology
I received the lubricating oil analysis. And now?
After the oil is collected and analyzed, it is time to receive the results. It is important to note that each sample will have an individual report. In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to the type of lubricant.
Like a blood test, the report points to the presence of contaminating elements in the oil, as well as the quantity of each. With this it is possible to know if the situation differs from the standards considered normal. Among the main points of the document are:
1: Contaminants
- These are contaminating elements of external and internal origin, such as: silicon, aluminum, sodium, and potassium.
- High levels of silicon and sodium point to external contamination. Thus, it is worth keeping an eye on intake manifolds, seals and air filters;
- If the aluminum data is higher than that of silicon, it is important to pay attention to the wear of the components, which can characterize internal contamination.
- Sodium may still be present in an internal contamination generated by the coolant. When this occurs, the potassium concentration also tends to be high.
2: Wear
- It deals with particles generated by corrosion or wear of equipment parts, such as rings, bearings, and hydraulic pumps, for example.
- Normally, the analysis of lubricating oil points to elements such as: iron, lead, copper, titanium, silver, aluminum, manganese, nickel, tin, among others.
3: Additivation
- The analysis focuses on the chemical and physical states of the oil, making it possible to identify flaws, such as mixing and incorrect supply.
- The additive group consists of elements such as: calcium, magnesium and barium (detergent additives); boron (friction modifying additive), phosphorus (extreme pressure additive), and zinc + phosphorus (anti-wear additive).
In view of the results of the lubricating oil analysis, it is possible to identify problems and act to avoid serious failures. With this, avoid unnecessary and above expected expenses.
It is important to highlight that, in case of doubt when interpreting the report, POC Filters professionals are always available to assist in the search for the best solutions for your equipment.
