Benefits
- Evaluates the chemical contamination of the oil
- Determines the usability of the oil
- Determines the dissolved elements and concentration of additives
- Estimates the usable life of the oil
- Determines optimum oil change intervals
- Time and labor costs saved due to extended oil change intervals
- Improved reliability due to early warning and detection of faults
- Peace of mind knowing that equipment is operating optimally
Our Value
- Experienced laboratory and analytical staff ensuring high quality and timely information
- State-of-the art laboratory instrumentation utilizing applicable ASTM and ISO standards for producing reliable test data
- Customized testing programs optimizing the value of individual fluid condition monitoring services
- On-site program set-up, support and oil analysis training seminars for maximum value of test and analysis information
- High quality supplies and hardware for consistent, repeatable sample collection
- A complete analysis report that includes all information relevant to the type of fluid tested. Each report contains ratings, recommendations, supporting text, tables, and/or an image providing a complete picture of a machine’s operating condition through Orbital
- Easy-to-read, plain language reports that are easily deciphered throughout the organization
- Easy-to-distribute PDF condition reports can be accessed from Trico’s password protected Orbital platform
- ISO 9001:2015 certified and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited to ensure proper quality control
- Intensive quality assurance checks in-house and with external resources such as ASTM’s PTP program
- MLT/MLA certified Lubrication Program Managers assigned specifically to your account to assist you with your reliability program needs
Services
Purpose of Test The WPC, summation of DL and DS, provides a trendable quantity for monitoring the wear condition of a piece of equipment. Fluctuations in the WPC suggest an abnormal condition in the component or possible contamination.
Purpose of Test By identifying the size, shape, composition, and concentration of the abnormal wear particles, the wear mechanism and its possible origin can be determined. Solid contaminants can also be identified. Equipment and component metallurgical information aids the analyst in determining the root cause for the formation of these particles.
Purpose of Test Elemental analysis is useful for identifying contamination, confirming additive content, and indicating system wear. The following elements are analyzed: Iron, Chromium, Aluminum, Lead, Tin, Copper, Silver, Nickel, Sodium, Vanadium, Titanium, Molybdenum, Calcium, Barium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Boron, Potassium, Magnesium and Silicon.
Purpose of Test Since all contaminants in the oil are counted as particles, the particle count includes wear particles, soot, dirt, and other contaminates. This test provides information on lubricant cleanliness.
Purpose of Test Tracking the actual water quantity in a sample of in-service lubricant is crucial in identify the source of the water and noting changes in this contamination over time since water not only promotes component damage through pitting and corrosion, but lubricant breakdown through oxidation as well.
Purpose of Test AN of a used lubricant is one measure of its degree of degradation by oxidation.
Test Description BN is determined by titration with Hydrochloric acid (HCl) which neutralizes the basic compounds in the oil sample and then is converted to grams of potassium hydroxide (KOH).
Purpose of Test TBN of a used lubricant is a measurement of its ability to neutralize the acid commonly found in combustion engines.
Test Description The infrared absorption spectrum of a lubricant furnishes a means of fingerprinting organic compounds and functional groups. Test results are trended and qualitative determinations can be made.
Purpose of Test Infrared analysis is often used to identify trends in lubricant degradation due to oxidation or contamination such as nitration or water.
Test Description A visual inspection of the oil is performed upon arrival and a small amount of oil is placed on a hot plate heated to 265 °C which will indicate the presence of water with a crackling sound. Unfortunately, this test is imprecise and can be inaccurate which is why the Karl Fisher test for water is crucial to a well-maintained oil analysis program.
Purpose of Test This screening is used to provide a description of any egregious issues with the sample.
Test Description A portion of the sample is heated to the correct temperature (40 or 100 °C) and pulled into a tube. The pressure is released allowing the lubricant to fall with gravity and the time is measured as the lubricant passes two specified points in the tube. The shorter the time, the lower the viscosity.
Purpose of Test The viscosity is the most important characteristic for oil. If the viscosity is too low, components will not have separation during operation and wear will be generated. If the viscosity is too high then the operating temperatures will be higher and the lifespan of the motor may be diminished.
ISO Certification
Trico is committed to providing quality oil analysis services. To meet this high level of quality our lab is ISO 9001:2015 certified and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited which means we implement a quality system that is aimed at improving our ability to consistently produce valid results for our customers. ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is an International Standard designed for the accreditation of Testing and Calibration Laboratories. It includes quality management system requirements along with technical requirements to ensure that each laboratory is equipped to perform particular tests and calibration activities. The accreditation offers the following benefits:
- Demonstration of a well-established quality management system producing reliable and competent test and calibration results
- Reduction of the amount of regulatory assessments required
- Competitive advantage in the marketplace
- International recognition of test and calibration reports