IHI NIIGATA MG(L)26HLX, Instruction Manual

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S E C T I O N 1 - O U T L I N E
1.3 LUBRICATING OIL SPECIFICATIONS
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1.3.5 Analysis of Lubricating Oil
A program of routine periodic laboratory analysis is essential to detect
potential problems and prevent serious engine damage. Additionally, the
laboratory analysis should be supplemented with frequent on-site checks of the
oil condition to avoid problems that could occur during the time periods
between lab tests (see "On-site Checks" below).
(1) Laboratory analysis
Lubricating oil should be laboratory analyzed at 500 hour intervals for
viscosity, base number, detergent dispersability, moisture, and
impurities. If the engine is an emergency unit or genset which accumulates
less than 500 hours per year, the oil analysis should be conducted at least
once per year, and the oil should be changed every two years.
The results of the laboratory analyses should be recorded so that changes in
the oil properties can be traced as a function of engine operating hours.
For those engines that accumulate hours rapidly, it is also recommended that
on-site analysis of the oil condition be conducted every 100 hours.
Lubricating oil can deteriorate rapidly under certain conditions, and the
on-site tests provide a good "backup" to the 500 hour lab tests.
(2) Recommended on-site checks (100 hours) for Lube oil contamination
In the 500 hour interval between laboratory analysis, periodic field checks
can help prevent problems that might result from oil contamination caused
by fuel leaks, water leaks, etc.
Most oil manufacturers provide various test kits for this purpose. While the
test results are not as comprehensive or accurate as a lab analysis, they
are usually sufficient to provide early warning of problems.
These test kits vary among the oil manufacturers, but basically provide
information from a spot of the used oil placed on a special absorbent paper.
Visual examination of the spot indicates contamination and dispersant
characteristics, and the color of a special reagent placed on the spot shows
whether the oil is acid, neutral, or alkaline.
Complete information on the use of these test kits should be obtained from
the oil supplier.
Of course, any other obvious signs of oil contamination, such as a "milky"
color (water) or a strong odor of fuel in the lube oil should signal the
need for immediate remedial action.