Additional testing is available on oil samples and is included with some of the specialized kits provided by the fluid testing laboratory. These tests include Rapid Filtergrams, RPVOT, MPC, Glycol in Oil, RULER, Sugar Contamination and ASTM Colour.
Rapid Filtergrams are included in the premium oil sample test kits and involves analysis of the sample under a Microscope which also includes a quantification of the material, wear mechanism and size. This test will also include a representative image of the sample, as taken under the microscope, typically at 500x magnification. A graph also accompanies the image, plotting the wear mechanism against the size, showing the overall severity of the contamination.
RPVOT (Rotary Pressure Vessel Oxidation Test). This is an accelerated oil aging test to measure the long term performance of the oil. The result, reported in minutes, indicates the remaining oxidative test life of in-service oil. It is traditionally used for testing large volumes of oil that are expected to last for long periods. Typical applications are Turbine, Hydraulic, Compressor and other large volume systems. (HD Kit Part Number SOS20_700).
MPC (Membrane Patch Colorimetry, also known as the Varnish Potential test). This method measures the colour change on a filter patch of an in-service oil as an indicator of varnish. It is used in conjunction with Particle Counting to monitor when the lubricant produces harmful sludge and varnish. Varnish and insoluble material can affect valve operation in hydraulic systems along with influencing the load carrying ability of the oil. (HD Kit Part Number SOS13_700)
Glycol in Oil testing is used to detect coolant entry in some types of automatic transmissions.
RULER (Remaining Useful Life of Antioxidants Evaluation Routine). This test uses linear sweep voltammetry to detect the different species of antioxidants present in the sample. It determines if the antioxidant reserve is still sufficient for continued service or if the oil needs changing. It is a complimentary test to TAN / TBN and oxidation by FTIR. In order to have this test performed, you need to purchase the appropriate sample kit and supply new oil in the special sample plug located under the lid.
All Testing Completed by Hastings Deering Laboratory Services