Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/359954
14 | July - August 2014 | www.machinerylubrication.com from which to choose. Don't allow the lab to select just the stan- dard test slate for all your samples. Unless the appropriate tests are chosen for each sample point, early warning signals may be missed. More often than not, opportunities for maintenance cost savings are overlooked. Takeaway: Test slate optimization requires a two-pronged approach with routine and exception testing. This methodology should be used with all test packages for each machine type and criticality. Correct Sample Preparation at the Laboratory The importance of not disturbing an oil sample during the sampling process has already been discussed. However, this would be a waste of time if the laboratory does not properly prepare the sample for analysis. Each testing procedure has written preparative instructions that must be followed for admissible results. Takeaway: A lot of time and effort can be spent on sample preparation by the end user, but don't stop there. Ask your labo- ratory the right questions to ensure it is using the appropriate sample preparation methods. Use of Calibration Standards, Low interference instruments and Test Methods You also should not make assumptions about other practices at the laboratory. Be sure the lab you select performs appro- priate calibrations and utilizes methods and instruments known for low interference. Takeaway: Due diligence is required when choosing a laboratory. Ask the necessary questions to ensure the lab will take your oil analysis seriously. Onsite Oil Analysis and inspections An excellent way to enhance your oil analysis program, regard- less of whether a commercial (offsite) laboratory has been selected, is to incorporate onsite oil analysis and inspection methods. Certain types of tests are quite standard and should be conducted on every sample, such as particle counts and moisture content. The instruments for these tests have dropped significantly in price, making them even more feasible for onsite use. Takeaway: Onsite oil analysis tests and simple inspections can further optimize your ability to obtain quality information and become more cost effective over time. Determining the Optimum Course of Action Effective Organization of Analysis with Proper Trending Although laboratories generally attempt to display oil analysis results in a user-friendly manner, they may not always be easily under- stood by end users. Comprehending how results are organized will be necessary for proper interpretation. For example, with certain types of tests, trending with graphs is required to detect a fault. Therefore, you should be aware of how the data is organized and investigate whether it can be improved for easier interpretation. Takeaway: The organization of oil analysis results is the laboratory's responsibility. The more effective the organization is for interpre- tation, the less likely a preventable machine failure will be missed. Accurate Data interpretation by the Laboratory Oil analysis results typically come with a summary paragraph that suggests actions the end user should take. The accuracy of this lab-based interpretation depends on lessoNs IN lUBrICAtIoN 21% of lubrication professionals perform oil analysis on equipment at their plant on an annual basis, according to a recent poll at machinerylubrication.com