Compressor Oils Test

Fluid Analysis is important in any Reliability Centered Maintenance program. Knowing which tests are best suited for compressor fluids is critical.  The following tests are useful for  compressors and provide valuable information to help monitor the health of your compressors’ fluid and internals, and warn of impending failures.

• Elemental Metals (24) by ICP (or Spectroscopy)

  Elemental Analysis, or Spectroscopy, identifies the type and amount of wear particles, contamination and additives. Determining metal content can alert you to the type and severity of wear occurring in the unit. Measurements are expressed in parts per million (ppm).  It provides rapid screening of used oils for indications of wear. 

• Water Karl Fischer, PPM

  This test produces iodine when electricity is conducted across a mesh screen.  The electrical current needed to create iodine and remove existing water is measured and converted to parts per million (ppm).

• Viscosity @ 40°C

  ASTM test uses a constant temperature bath.  The efflux time is measured between two points.  The viscosity is computed by using a calibration constant and the efflux time.  Viscosity is reported in centistokes (cSt) at 40ºC

• Oxidation/Nitration by FTIR

  As oil oxidizes, its ability to lubricate diminishes and, in cases of severe oxidation, noticeable changes occur: it becomes darker and emits odor; varnishes, lacquers and resins are formed; and in the advanced stages viscosity increases, often rapidly.
  Nitration is the reaction of the oil with combustion by-products of nitrogen. These reactions tend to become more pronounced at higher temperatures.

• Total Acid Number (TAN)

  TAN is a measure of the total concentration of acids, both weak and strong, present in the oil. It is an indicator of oil health. Useful in monitoring acid buildup in oils due to depletion of antioxidants. High acid levels can indicate excessive oil oxidation or depletion of oil additives, which can lead to corrosion of the internal components.

Sample bottle size: 90 ml.