Lubricating oil in engines and other components will combine with available oxygen under certain conditions to form a wide variety of harmful by-products.  Heat, pressure, and catalyst materials accelerate the oxidation process.  By-products of oxidation form lacquer deposits, corrode metal parts and thicken oil beyond its ability to lubricate.  Most lubricants contain additives which inhibit or retard the oxidation process.

Differential infrared analysis offers the only direct means of measuring the level of oxidation in used oil.  Note: A new oil reference is required for accurate measurement of oxidation.  Results are reported on an absorbance scale.

Oxidation CAUSE

• Overheating
• Extended oil drain
• Improper oil type/inhibitor additives
•  Combustion by-products/blow-by

 Oxidation EFFECT

• Shortened equipment life
• Lacquer deposits
• Oil filter plugging
• Increased oil viscosity
• Corrosion of metal parts
• Increased operating expense
• Increased overall wear
• Decreased engine performance

 Oxidation SOLUTION

• Use oil with oxidation inhibitor additives
• Shorten oil drain intervals
• Check operating temperatures
• Check fuel quality
• Evaluate equipment use vs. design
• Evaluate operating conditions