Different types of oil are used for both domestic and industrial purposes. Its condition can greatly impact the equipment’s performance and lifespan. Low-grade or contaminated oil can lead to unexpected issues and equipment failure. Therefore, you should opt for oil analysis after regular intervals to check its condition.
Oil analysis is vital to maintaining equipment and ensuring smooth operations. It’s mandatory to assess the condition of lubricants, identify wear patterns, and predict potential issues before they escalate.
However, when it comes to hiring oil analysis services, not all providers are the same. Choosing the right company requires careful evaluation of several factors. In this post, we will explain what you should consider when hiring oil analysis services.
7 Key Considerations to Find the Best Oil Analysis Service Providers
1. Experience
The first thing you need to consider is the experience of service providers. You should always prefer companies that have significant experience in oil analysis, particularly within your industry. Experience means they have seen a variety of issues and can accurately interpret results to offer actionable insights.
Service providers with expertise in specific industries, such as automotive, aviation, or manufacturing, may understand unique requirements better. It will help them to deliver more comprehensive reports and targeted recommendations.
2. Range of Testing Capabilities
Various tests are required to assess the condition of the oil accurately. Therefore, the next thing you need to consider is testing the capabilities of service providers. They must offer a wide array of tests that analyse different aspects of oil performance and contamination.
The following are some common tests that your selected provider must offer.
Viscosity Testing: It determines how well an oil flows under specific temperatures and pressure conditions. It is crucial because oil with high viscosity may not flow properly. Meanwhile, low-viscosity oil may fail to provide sufficient lubrication.
Spectrochemical Analysis: This analysis uses spectroscopy to identify and measure trace elements within the oil. It helps identify abnormal wear early by detecting elements like iron, copper, and aluminium.
Total Acid Number (TAN): It measures the acidity in oil, which increases as oil oxidises over time. High acidity can lead to corrosion of engine and machine components. Therefore, regular TAN testing helps monitor the oil’s lifespan.
Total Base Number (TBN): This test measures the oil’s alkalinity, which helps counteract acidic contaminants produced during combustion. A declining TBN indicates that the oil’s additives are depleting.
Water Content Analysis: Water contamination can lead to rust, corrosion, and degradation of additives. This test measures the water content of the oil. Karl Fischer titration or FTIR is often used to precisely measure water levels.
3. Accreditation and Certifications
It’s among the most important things you need to focus on when hiring oil analysis service providers. Checking accreditations for testing and calibration helps you evaluate providers’ commitment to maintaining high standards.
Similarly, certifications ensure that providers follow established protocols and conduct tests under controlled conditions. Considering these two things will help you find a company that not only ensures compliance with industry standards but also reflects a dedication to accuracy and reliability in test results.
4. Equipment and Technology
Oil analysis requires various equipment for sample collection and testing. Therefore, you must pay special attention to the equipment of service providers. You should always opt for service providers that have access to modern equipment and advanced technology.
Advanced techniques, such as laser particle counters, gas chromatography, or inductively coupled plasma analysis, can deliver more precise and reliable results. Moreover, they can offer predictive maintenance insights that add value beyond basic analysis.
5. Sample Management
Proper handling of samples is crucial in oil analysis, as contamination or mishandling can lead to inaccurate results. Your selected providers should have clear protocols for sample management, including proper labelling and documentation.
It ensures that each sample is correctly identified and handled from collection through analysis. It minimises the risk of errors and enhances the reliability of the results.
6. Interpretation of Results
The actual value of oil analysis lies not only in raw data but in the interpretation of results. Your selected company should offer detailed reports that include clear, actionable insights. Look for providers who present data in easy-to-understand formats, such as charts, graphs, or trend analysis.
7. Customer Support and Consultation
It’s one of the most significant considerations in finding the best oil analysis service providers. Excellent customer support ensures that all your queries will be answered appropriately. Similarly, consultation ensures that providers will provide you with the best suggestions.
Final Words
Considering the aforementioned factors will help you find the best oil analysis services. You can contact Network Environmental UK to handle this job. It’s a trusted company that offers premium analysis services at market-competitive rates. It has highly skilled staff for sample collection and testing, ensuring you get accurate results.
