UOA tests meaning

[inquirer]

I'm reading about oil analysis tests here: http://www.blackstone-labs.com/tests-price-list.php and I have a few questions.

Beside the standard tests (http://www.blackstone-labs.com/standard-analysis.php):

1. What are the additional tests for? (A short description of the measured quantity is what I'm looking for: For example what does "Particle Count" counts exactly?)
2. Which of them are indicated for a UOA analysis and what abnormal (high or low) results mean for each test?

If there is already a guide about all of them that would be really helpful, but even if there isn't I would appreciate any information that you could give me.

Thanks in advance for any answers!

 

[Donald]

Particle count tells you the size and count of contaminant particles.

Most UOA will indicate if a particular value is too high or low.

I always get TBN which tells you the ability to the additive package to handle combustion byproducts such as acids.

NAPA is cheaper than Blackstone and includes TBN.

 

[inquirer]

Originally Posted By: Donald
Particle count tells you the size and count of contaminant particles.

Most UOA will indicate if a particular value is too high or low.

I always get TBN which tells you the ability to the additive package to handle combustion byproducts such as acids.

NAPA is cheaper than Blackstone and includes TBN.


What is the difference of particle count from insolubles, wear metals etc. that are included in the standard test? Or aren't those considered contaminants?

As for NAPA were is a link about the tests?
I found these two links:
https://www.napaonline.com/napa/en/p/FIL4077/
http://www.napaonline.com/napa/en/p/FIL24078ECP/
Which should I buy and are the tests included in the price?

Furthermore as I live in Greece I have also to check what prices apply to send me the kits here. For example Blackstone mentions free shipment of the kits but does this include only USA?

 

[UltrafanUK]

Originally Posted By: inquirer
Originally Posted By: Donald
Particle count tells you the size and count of contaminant particles.

Most UOA will indicate if a particular value is too high or low.

I always get TBN which tells you the ability to the additive package to handle combustion byproducts such as acids.

NAPA is cheaper than Blackstone and includes TBN.


What is the difference of particle count from insolubles, wear metals etc. that are included in the standard test? Or aren't those considered contaminants?

As for NAPA were is a link about the tests?
I found these two links:
https://www.napaonline.com/napa/en/p/FIL4077/
http://www.napaonline.com/napa/en/p/FIL24078ECP/
Which should I buy and are the tests included in the price?

Furthermore as I live in Greece I have also to check what prices apply to send me the kits here. For example Blackstone mentions free shipment of the kits but does this include only USA?


Their kits are sent free anywhere in the world, even the EU!

Try bulk buying tests to save money and there is no need for a TBN after the initial UOA if you are not trying to extend the OCI to some biblical figure.

 

[OVERKILL]

Originally Posted By: inquirer
I'm reading about oil analysis tests here: http://www.blackstone-labs.com/tests-price-list.php and I have a few questions.

Beside the standard tests (http://www.blackstone-labs.com/standard-analysis.php):

1. What are the additional tests for? (A short description of the measured quantity is what I'm looking for: For example what does "Particle Count" counts exactly?)
2. Which of them are indicated for a UOA analysis and what abnormal (high or low) results mean for each test?

If there is already a guide about all of them that would be really helpful, but even if there isn't I would appreciate any information that you could give me.

Thanks in advance for any answers!


The components are covered via this article on the main page:
http://bobistheoilguy.com/engine-oil-analysis/

And the process for using them (why do them, their purpose...etc.) is covered in this excellent article by Doug Hillary:
http://bobistheoilguy.com/used-oil-analysis/

Basically, the idea is to trend UOA's with your piece of equipment to determine what is "normal" for it, so that if you get something that bucks that trend, you'll recognize that abnormality and can trace its source to prevent damage to the equipment. The other usage is of course to extend your drain intervals using TBN/TAN to extract the most value out of your lubricant purchase whist not jeopardizing the health of the equipment. You can do both these things simultaneously if you request TBN/TAN with your UOA's.

 

[UltrafanUK]

In my opinion you can base an extended OCI on actual wear metal (Fe in particular tracks miles) results and viscosity without knowing the TBN, BUT it's a good idea to do an idle only flush (Don't use one if it's a dripper) or inspect the sump and top end for signs of sludge or varnish if you don't get all the figures.