PROPER LUBE OIL SAMPLING TECHNIQUE
All sample containers must be clean and dry. A used-oil analysis program is started by sending a sample of the new, unused oil to the analysis laboratory. This sample will be used as a reference standard. The analysis is based on deviation of properties relative to the new, unused oil. The used-oil sample should be collected when the oil is warm and well mixed. If a machine is down, it should be started to circulate the oil through the system.
The sample line should be purged to remove stagnant oil and debris (the sample must not be contaminated). The sample should be taken from the line before the filter. The sam- ple should be representative of the system. If the sample is taken from a sump or a gear- box, it should be taken from the middle every time. Hand pumps can be used to withdraw a sample from a sump or crankcase into a bottle. The sample must properly identify the oil and equipment type, collection date, time since last oil change, and oil makeup rate. The sample should be taken to the laboratory as soon as possible.