How the Oil Analysis Program (OAP) Works

OAP is a 4-step process:

    (1) Purchasing
    (2) Sampling
    (3) Analysis
    (4) Diagnostic Reporting

Step 1 - Registration

1. Begin the OAP process by purchasing a sampling kit from AMSOIL. You may purchase kits singly or in quantities of 50 or 100, with lower per-kit prices for larger orders. A oil suction pump is also available.

2. The sample kit  includes a sample bottle, sample information form and mailer.

Step 2 - Sampling

1. Read the Oil Sampling Procedures on the back of the sample information form.

2. Fill out the Sample Information Form completely.

3. Take a sample (minimum: 2 to 3 oz).

4. Close and seal sample container tightly.

5. Send the filled sample container and the Sample Information Form to OAI in the supplied mailer.

Step 3 - Analysis
Upon receipt of your sample at the Oil Analyzers Inc. laboratory, all requisite testing will be performed. All analyses include determination of viscosity, fuel dilution (if applicable), water, dirt content, fuel soot contamination (if applicable), plus spectrochemical analysis for 20 elements to determine component wear, airborne dirt, anti-freeze contamination (if applicable), and oil additive concentrations.

The analyses also includes a neutralization value determination - Total Base Number (TBN) primarily for gasoline and diesel motor oils or Total Acid Number (TAN) non-crankcase lubricants. Oxidation values and nitration value (if applicable) are also determined

Step 4 - Reporting

1. OAI will mail your analysis report to you the day your sample is analyzed. For even faster results, request that your results be faxed to you, or go online and register to get your results online.

2. If your analysis uncovers a critical problem, such as pending equipment failure, a technician will telephone you directly to advise you of the situation and recommend a course of corrective action.

The Sampling Process

Trend Analysis
A single sampling analysis is useful in providing information when critical failure conditions exist. However, trend analysis is a better tool for estimating the useful life or overall condition of your engine or equipment. Trend analysis samples are taken and analyzed at regularly scheduled intervals. Comparing the most recent analysis to previous reports on a given machine shows the development of trends. Monitoring these trends enables early detection of internal abnormalities. Tested values falling within acceptable limits may show a pattern of subtle variance, which could signal a developing problem.

Machines of the same type will accumulate contaminants and wear at different rates. Performing trend analysis on each machine is the most effective method of giving you an internal look at your equipment and enabling you to deal with developing problems before they become catastrophic situations.

Sampling Frequency
The frequency of sample analysis from your equipment depends on the machine type, machine application and condition, operating environment and other variables. For example, many machines that operate in harsh environments, such as heavy equipment in mining or construction, require short oil sampling intervals - every 100 to 300 operating hours. However, certain power transmission systems, such as gearboxes and hydraulic systems used inside manufacturing and production facilities, require no more than quarterly sampling intervals. The following table lists generic sampling frequencies for common equipment types, and is provided as a guideline only. Additional information is available from Oil Analyzers Inc., your lubricant supplier, and the equipment manufacturer.

Collecting a clean and representative oil sample is critical to the oil analysis process. Put simply, an oil analysis is only as good as the sample taken. The accuracy and reliability of the data produced by an analysis hinges on receiving a representative sample from the equipment to be tested. To assure that the sample extracted is representative of the system, always follow proper sampling procedures.

SAMPLING METHODS
1. The component sampled should be brought to operating temperature prior to sampling. This will assure that the insoluble and semi-soluble material is suspended evenly throughout the system. Samples taken from components that have been inactive for long periods are not representative.

2. Sample should always be taken in the same manner and from the same point.

3. Do not sample a component directly after an oil change or after a large amount of makeup oil has been added.

4. Use a clean, dry, unbreakable container. Never reuse containers or sampling tubing.

Collect your sample using one of the three following methods:

1. Oil Suction Pump Method
(see instructions for use)
Request a oil suction pump when ordering your sample kit. The pump will come with complete instructions and will enable you to draw a sample quickly and easily. Seal the bottle tightly.

G-1206 Oil Suction Pump with 10-foot hose

2. Sample Valve/Petcock Method
The valve should be wiped clean and any stagnant oil should be drained prior to catching a sample run. Seal the bottle tightly. Wipe bottle clean.

3. Oil Drain Method
Clean the area around the drain plug thoroughly to avoid sample contamination. Allow oil to drain for three to five seconds prior to catching a sample. Place a clean, dry sample bottle in the oil stream and fill to within 1/2 inch of the top. Seal bottle tightly. Wipe bottle clean. (This is a last resort)

SAMPLING TIPS

• For best results, oil samples should be taken immediately after equipment shutdown, while the equipment is still at operating temperature. Never sample a cold engine and always make sure the oil has been well circulated before taking a sample. Dirt, water and other debris tend to settle to the bottom of the reservoir while light fuels tend to float. This separation will compromise your analysis.
• Good locations for sampling include an oil gallery, the engine crankcase, the drain plug or dipstick tube and the equipment reservoir or sump.
• When taking oil from industrial machinery through a bottom drain, be careful to draw oil until your sample has a uniform, representative appearance.
• Use samples from the drain pan or oil filter only as a last resort. For a failed engine that has had the oil drained, a drain pan or oil filter sample may help detect the cause of the failure.
• Avoid prolonged skin contact with used oil. Wash exposed skin with soap and water after exposure.

CAUTION
Engine crankcase oil temperatures can exceed 200°F. To avoid personal injury, use protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses and protective clothing.

SPECIAL TESTS AVAILABLE