Keeping industrial equipment in perfect operating condition is high priority for companies depending on this machinery each and every day. Equipment becomes worn after a time because of friction, heat, metal fatigue and the presence of contaminants. Indicators of degradation can be found within the lubricating fluids. An oil analysis laboratory uses the sample oil or coolant to determine what might cause a serious equipment malfunction as well as establish a predictable future for industrial machinery.
Analysis Of Industrial Oils
Any type of commercial oil, coolant, lubricant, hydraulic fluid or fuel will undergo slow changes in its chemical composition. These changes are more rapid when the fluid is exposed to constant heat, pressure or contaminant particles. The changes in chemistry reflect the integrity of the machinery in which they are used.
Lab technicians perform a wide range of tests on collected samples. These tests include confirmation of water molecules within lubricants, metal buildup and other residues present in the oil. The origin of these metals or contaminants can be identified as well as the rate of buildup. Machinery operating at peak efficiency will be indicated if the degradation of its lubricant oils is normal. Rapid buildup of contaminants points to the likelihood of equipment failure in the near future.
Designing A Maintenance Schedule
An oil analysis laboratory charts the results of fluid testing and sends a report to the client. These reports clearly show what machinery is undergoing fatigue or mechanical dysfunction. Repeated testing of oils and lubricants on the same piece of equipment quickly establishes a pattern of equipment behavior. A maintenance model can be completed showing exactly what parts need to be replaced and when.
Training Programs Available
TricoCorp has built a reputation for accurate oil analysis as well as maintenance programs for companies using industrial generators, electric motors, hydraulic equipment and turbine engines. Clients have the option of having TricoCorp perform routine fluid testing at the company laboratory, create a test schedule, collect samples on a repeated basis or a combination of all three procedures. A permanent collection routine can be set up that includes a training program for workers employed by the client.
Machine breakdowns are a nightmare. Preventing them can be as easy as scheduling equipment fluid testing. TricoCorp has a full-service oil analysis laboratory for those needing information on the health and integrity of industrial equipment. The cost is far less than the price paid for downtime due to broken machinery.
Oil Analysis Laboratory