When reservoir bottle sampling using a vampire-type oil puller, coil wrap thin wire around the flexible plastic hose, so it remains straight and vertical at the desired depth in the oil, and does not touch the sides of the reservoir, to avoid contaminating the sample. (Tim Monk, regional filtration specialist, Wyko Fluid Power Services)

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From the book "Insider Secrets to Hydraulics":

Incorrect commissioning during start-up can result in damage through inadequate lubrication, cavitation and aeration. In many cases, this damage will not show itself until the component fails, hundreds or even thousands of hours after the event.

A common misconception among maintenance personnel with limited training in hydraulics, is that because oil circulates through hydraulic components in operation, no special attention is required during installation beyond fitting the component and connecting its hoses. Nothing could be further from the truth.

More information about "Insider Secrets to Hydraulics"

Test your knowledge and prepare for ICML lubrication and oil analysis certification.

Question: Name two types of "nonsoap" grease intended for high-temperature use.

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"What will cause zinc levels in my oil to fluctuate?"

There are several reasons why zinc may be present in your oil samples. These include wear of zinc-containing alloys such as brass, zinc plating and galvanized surfaces; also zinc-containing additives, most notably zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP), a common antiwear and antioxidant additive.

The most common reason for fluctuating data is improper sampling. Sampling accuracy dependents on sampling from the correct location, using the same methods and procedures each and every time. If you do not have a good handle on the correct procedure, this would be the first place to start looking.

Other factors that may impact zinc concentrations include the addition of make-up oil (possibly the wrong oil), the method used by the lab to analyze the sample (this is particularly true if the data is being compared between different labs that may use different instruments) and changes in particle size if the source of the zinc is from active machine wear.

Mark Barnes, Noria Corporation

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MARCH 2007

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