Lubricating Oil Analysis

Test specifications vary depending on the end users purpose. Lubricants are produced through distillation. During distillation the lighter components are removed. Hydrogen treatment then removes solvents and non-hydrocarbon components to improve the feedstock quality. Hydrogen treatment or Clay Treatment then assist with with product instability. Low temperature properties are then enhanced, via dewaxing. Tests like viscosity and flash point are typically performed on all lubricants, but analysis varies depending on product specifications and product purpose. Lubricating oil can be divided to serve two main functions. Function 1 is intermittent based, such as motor and aviation oils. Function 2 is is for continuous service, such as turbine oils. Test methods apply according to these 2 functions. Lubricating oil analysis for oils used for intermittent functions must show the very minimum possible change in viscosity with temperature. In other words, they must have a high viscosity index. Stability isn’t as important with lubricating oils that are used for intermittent functions because the oils require frequent maintenance to increase efficiency. Lubricating oil analysis for continuous service functions must be extremely stable, with low viscosity indexes. These engines typically operate at constant conditions under constant temperatures. PhosLube Petroleum Laboratories performs lubricating oil analysis for quality control and product specification purposes.