How to detect lubricant degradation (lubricant degradation test method)
What is lubricant degradation? Lubricant degradation refers to the process in which lubricants gradually lose their original properties and chemical composition due to factors such as heat, oxidation, pollution or chemical reactions during use. This will lead to increased viscosity of the lubricant, oxidation thickening, failure of additives, precipitation or dirt, etc., which will reduce the lubrication effect and even damage the machine equipment. Degradation may also release harmful substances and have a negative impact on the environment. Regular replacement and maintenance of lubricants, control of use conditions and monitoring of oil status are key measures to slow down lubricant degradation.
I. What are the lubricant degradation test methods?
There are many test methods for lubricant degradation, some of which are mainly:
1. Viscosity determination: The degree of degradation of the lubricant is assessed by measuring the viscosity change of the lubricant. Degradation will lead to an increase in viscosity, so the state of the lubricant can be monitored by viscosity testing.
2. Oxidation stability test: The oxidation stability test of lubricants can evaluate their ability to resist oxidation under high temperature and pressure. These tests can simulate actual working conditions and determine the ability of lubricants to resist oxidation degradation.
3. Acid and base value testing: Degradation can lead to an increase in acidic or alkaline substances in the lubricant, so testing the acid and base values can help assess the degree of degradation of the lubricant.
4. Sediment and contaminant testing: Degradation is assessed by detecting the amount of sediment and contaminants in the lubricant. An increase in sediment and contaminants may indicate that the lubricant has failed.
5. Additive analysis: Analyzing the content and performance of additives in the lubricant can help determine whether the lubricant has failed due to additive degradation.
These test methods can be used alone or in combination to help assess the degree of degradation and effectiveness of the lubricant, thereby guiding the time and method of replacing or maintaining the lubricant.
The purpose of lubricant degradation testing is to evaluate the quality changes that lubricants undergo over time and conditions during use. These tests simulate actual working conditions and measure the performance of lubricants in terms of pressure, temperature, oxidation, contamination, and service life. The significance of this test is to ensure the stability and reliability of lubricants in equipment, predict their service life, and detect lubricant degradation in a timely manner. Through these tests, equipment failure or performance degradation caused by deterioration of lubricant quality can be avoided, maintenance and replacement can be carried out in advance, equipment life can be extended, maintenance costs can be reduced, and safe and reliable operation of equipment can be ensured.
If you need:，Please contact us. INZOC, well-known domestic oil monitoring system provider!