Oil Sampling Technical Manual 2006
Oil Sampling Technical Manual 2006
Oil Maintenance
Compressor frame lubricating oil should be changed as indicated in the regular maintenance
intervals or with a filter change or when oil analysis results indicate the need. A more frequent
oil change interval may be required if operating in an extremely dirty environment without
sampling and analysis or if the oil supplier recommends it.
Oil Sampling
Oil samples should be collected on a regular basis and analyzed to verify suitability of oil for
continued service. Consistent oil analysis can identify when to change the oil on the basis of
need rather than on a scheduled interval. Depending on the service, the length of time
between oil changes can be significantly extended through oil analysis. Oil analysis should
include:
• Viscosity testing should be performed at 100°F (40°C) and 212°F (100°C). This is to be
sure that the oil has not mixed with cylinder oils or process gas.
• Particle counting to the latest version of ISO 4406.
• Spectroscopy to determine wear metals, contaminants, and additives.
• FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) to check for oxidation, water or cool-
ant contamination, and additive depletion. This is more important if a separate lube oil
is used for the force feed system.
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