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Frequently Asked Questions
What does an oil sample cost?
Routine oil samples for cars, motor homes and such are about $40.
Much less in quantities. More sophisticated oil analysis for turbines, hydraulics and the like
get up to around $55.00 for a single sample.. Special investigations
and forensic analysis can be in the thousands of dollar range. Large
volume discounts are routinely offered for large volumes of samples.
How much oil sample do you need to test?
The oil sample volume is based on the number of tests and the methods
used. The oil analysis program requires about 2 ounces (small baby
food jar full, of course clean). Special samples and ASTM testing
requires several hundred milliliters. Fuel testing may require gallons.
So, the answer is … if it’s a regular oil sample a couple
of ounces. Everything else, go to our partial
list of tests for volumes required and special shipping instructions.
What type of shipping regulations are there and what type of container
do I use?
For lube oil samples, grease and parts there are no specific shipping
regulations. However, it is very important to contain the sample from
leaking. Flammable products such as gasoline and diesel fuel must
be shipped using special precautions and paperwork considering these
are "Dangerous Goods".
How do I take an oil sample?
Engine oil samples are normally taken at the normal oil change interval.
This starts by ordering a sample kit from Herguth Laboratories. The
person changing the oil can then catch the oil sample about midway
during the oil change by placing the bottle in the oil stream. For
samples taken between drains an extraction
device is required. This device is a sample tube and vacuum gun.
The tube is inserted into the crankcase or transmission through the
dipstick tube. Industrial applications require further discussion
on the appropriate sample methods and the laboratory should be contacted
if there are concerns over getting a representative samples.
When do I take a used oil sample?
There are generally two types of samples to be taken, 1. A routinely
scheduled sample for a machine condition monitoring program (a good
position to be in), And 2. When something goes wrong (not so good).
Sample interval guidance can only be presented in general terms here.
However, in general when your normal oil changes is due is a good
time to take a sample. This will enable you to evaluate the condition
of the oil at the change interval and decide if you would like to
go longer or shorten the interval.
Do you analyze used synthetic oils?
Yes! Herguth Laboratories analyzes all type of mineral and synthetic
oils. When you first sample make sure you identify the type of oil
used and we'll do the rest.
How long does an oil analysis take to perform?
Routine oil samples for condition monitoring take 48 hours to process
in the laboratory. In emergencies the laboratory can expedite the sample
through the system, often in a matter of hours. An extra charge does
apply for this service.
How do I get my oil analysis report back?
Most test results and recommendations are reported back to the client
using email in the form of an Adobe® reader file. Others use Herguth
Laboratories iLAMP internet access. And of
course facsimile or U.S. Mail are acceptable methods.
Will the laboratory explain the results?
Each sample receive thorough evaluation be an industry expert. The
evaluation consists of an overall status of the equipment and oil,
specific recommended action and a plan for re-sampling to monitor
the oil and equipment. View a standard
oil sample report to get familiar with the testing and recommendations.
Is there a oil sample test kit I can use at home?
Herguth Laboratories has licensed and patented technology for
evaluation of vehicle fluids;
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Engines Gasoline or Diesel |
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Transmission Fluid |
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Gear Oils |
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Brake Fluid |
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Power Steering Fluid |
These kits can be ordered by contacting FluidRx our distributor of field test kits. A link has been provided
on our Consumer Kits page.
How do I get test kits to send sample to the laboratory?
Simply go to our OAK Order page and oder kits on-line. For larger volumes users and idustrial sales contact our Customer
Service.
How can I pay for this service?
Single sample users are asked to pay by check, cash or credit card.
Larger volume users can use these methods or open an account with
Herguth Laboratories and receive prepaid analysis kits or be
invoiced monthly for samples submitted.
Why should I do oil analysis instead of just changing my oil?
Oil analysis is a proven technology that measures wear rates, contamination
levels and oil serviceability. Regularly scheduled oil samples taken
from operating equipment will warn of impending problems often long
before secondary damage is done. The oil sample results will also
let you know if your oil change was needed or over due.
How will I know the test results are ready?
If you are an email, facsimile or U.S. Mail recipient the results
will be sent to you when they are complete. If there is a "Critical” situation, the laboratory personnel will call you. Internet access
is available so clients can simply log on to iLAMP to check
the status of their samples.
How will I know if the results are good or bad?
Each sample receives a thorough evaluation by an industry expert. The
evaluation consists of an overall status of the equipment and oil,
specific recommended action and a plan for re-sampling to monitor
the oil and equipment.
My report indicates it is abnormal - what should I do?
Follow the specific recommendation made by the experts from the laboratory.
Make sure a qualified mechanic carries out these maintenance activities.
My report indicates it is normal - what should I do?
Nothing, but plan on sampling again on a regular schedule for continuing
security.
My report indicates the laboratory needs additional information -
what should I do?
Looking at your report you'll see the name of the individual that
analyzed your data. You can call this person or email
info@herguth.com. Always have the "Lab Number" assigned
to the sample ready. This is the easiest way to retrieve the data.
My report indicates a new oil reference and/or the product name is
needed - what should I do?
The best results are obtained when we know the specific oil being
used. If this is known submit the information to the lab when you
sample or you can call or email
info@herguth.com. Always have the "Lab Number" assigned to the sample
ready. This is the easiest way to retrieve the data.
Can the laboratory differentiate between synthetic, semi-synthetic,
synthetic-blends, and mineral oils?
The standard testing for used oil samples may show some differences
in the infrared analysis by detecting large amounts of ester in the
lubricants spectra. However, this is just an indication that there
may be a synthetic lubricant present. Different base oil types are
used throughout industry. Synthetic oil of the API Group IV type Polyalphaolefins
(PAO) are difficult to differentiate from mineral oils or blend. This
is because PAO's are synthesized hydrocarbons and look like mineral
oils in all respects at this level of testing. True characterization
can be done at some expense using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectroscopy
(GS/MS).
What information should I include with my sample?
All of the information required can be obtained by the laboratory
if you fill out the Component Registration form.
Is Mobil 1 better than Castrol GTX?
This question is the $64 million question! Engine oils are carefully
formulated to provide the best lubricant to the user for specific
engines and operations, at a targeted price. The true measure of performance
for your oil (or one oil over another) can be determined by regular
used oil samples and comparisons based on wear and degradation.
What engine oil or fuel additives should I use and why?
Modern engine oils and fuels are carefully formulated to offer the
best possible performance over a wide range of operating condition.
There are occasions where an additive not contained in the oil or
fuel will improve performance in one respect or another. However,
there are also additives that will cause harm to the system. If aftermarket
additives are used they should be thoroughly tested and offer more
proof of performance than simple testimonial letters or anecdotal
evidence.
My oil appears milky - what should I do?
Oil that appears "milky" in appearance is usually contaminated
with water. The milky appearance comes from the emulsified water and
oil matrix. A milky appearance is a sure sign of problems and a sample
should be sent to the laboratory for investigation.
My oil appears thin - what should I do?
Thin oil is generally caused by fuel (gasoline or diesel) getting
into the oil from the fuel delivery system. A quick way to check this
in you shop is to take the fresh new oil and the used oil at the same
temperature and let them run down a tilted piece of metal together.
If the oil is truly much thinner it will flow down faster. This is
due to the lower viscosity of the oil contaminated with fuel. Then
of course, a sample can be submitted for testing.
My oil is green /purple / blue/ yellow - what should I do?
Oils often change color in operation. A change in color may or may
not be significant depending on the application. Submitting a sample
to the laboratory with some operational information may quickly resolve
the problem.
Do you test transmission/differential oils and/or diesel fuel?
Herguth Laboratories has an extensive suite of testing capabilities
for a broad range of products. These are included as routine tests
we perform daily.
How long do you save the oil samples?
Used oil samples submitted to the laboratory are maintained in a clean,
organized area for 35 days after testing is complete. Special
handling samples such a research and litigation samples are saved
until the client and the laboratory agree that disposal or return
are appropriate.
How do you dispose of my oil after testing?
Herguth Laboratories has an extensive waste management program. Besides
used oil, we deal in radioactive and acutely hazardous waste. Each
sample type has a waste stream procedure and is tested and audited regularly,
so as to conform to all Local, State and Federal regulation. Each waste stream is recycled where possible.
For more information call 1-888-HERGUTH (437-4884)
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