How to Distinguish Whether Industrial Lubricating Oil Has Deteriorated?

Industrial lubricants such as steam turbine oil, bearing lubricating oil, hydraulic oil, gear oil, machine tool lubricating oil, grease, metalworking fluid, textile lubricating oil, quenching oil, heat transfer oil, electrical oil, refrigeration oil, antirust oil, etc. are widely used in various industries, and 220# gear oil manufacturers are particularly well-known.

However, due to the high demand, storing industrial lubricating oil can be a challenging task. If the oil deteriorates, it should not be used.

So how can we tell if industrial lubricants have deteriorated?

The deterioration of industrial lubricants can be identified by their dark color, increased foam, and emulsification. Additionally, finger polishing can also help in distinguishing degraded lubricants.

For instance, if the oil feels less greasy, has an unusual odor, or appears darker than usual, it may indicate deterioration.

Using deteriorated lubricating oil in machines can result in damage to the parts, thereby decreasing the machine’s service life and posing a risk of safety accidents.

To prevent such risks, it is crucial to check the oil regularly for signs of deterioration and replace it promptly.

Here are some methods to identify deteriorated industrial lubricants.

1. Observation method

To conduct this test, take two measuring cups: one filled with lubricating oil and the other empty. Lift the cup containing the oil up to a height of three cups and pour it obliquely into the empty cup. Finally, observe the lubricating oil.

High-quality industrial lubricating oil will flow evenly, steadily, and in a slender stream into the empty cup.

If the quality of the oil is poor, it will flow in a sporadic and uneven manner, leaving behind large pieces. This can indicate that the oil has deteriorated.

2. Finger grinding method

Rub the lubricating oil between your thumb and index finger. After repeated rubbing, you can evaluate its lubricity, degree of friction, and the amount of wear debris present.

A high-quality lubricating oil will exhibit good lubricity, produce minimal wear debris, and create a smooth sensation without any sense of friction.

However, if you notice particles during the rubbing process, it is an indication that the oil is problematic and should be replaced promptly.

3. Sunlight exposure method

To check for wear debris in industrial lubricating oil, one can apply a small amount of oil on a screwdriver tip and tilt it at a 40-degree angle. The oil should slowly drip along the tip in the sunlight, allowing for easy observation of any oil droplets.

By examining the oil droplets under light, one can determine the presence of wear debris. If no debris is found, the oil is considered good. However, if there are excessive amounts of abrasive chips, it is recommended that the oil be replaced.

4. Filter paper trace method

Start by preparing a clean, white filter paper. Then, drop a few drops of lubricating oil onto the filter paper and wait for the oil to seep through. Observe whether there is any black powder and then touch the filter paper with your fingers to check for any signs of blockage.

If there is a significant amount of black powder, it is time to replace the filter paper.

A good quality lubricating oil should be free from any powdery residue.

If the filter paper feels smooth to the touch and has a yellow color, it indicates that the lubricating oil is in good condition and there are no issues with it.