Oil Condition Monitoring by IR Spectroscopy

Lubrication is vital for machinery operation. Early detection of lube oil degradation and engine wear is essential for timely replacement. It helps to avoid unnecessary maintenance while reducing the risk of breakdowns.

ERASPEC OIL from Eralytics (Austria) uses the economic and fast infrared (IR) analysis test method to deliver specific chemical information of the lubricating oil. This ranges from soot and water contamination to oil degradation measured by sulfation, nitration and oxidation indicators. The total acid and total base number (TAN, TBN) are calculated from the spectrum and the depletion of anti-wear additives is monitored. This large amount of information is gained from a single IR spectrum within one minute only. Because of the high reliability of the results this IR analysis is used by laboratories around the world as a routine method.