Explination of UOA and VOA values.

[JakeR22]

I've been searching the UOA and VOA sections and I'm just not familiar with some of the items being tested. Can someone give an explination of what a good value is for the item being tested?

As for the metals, what's a good value for that metal ex. calcium, zinc, etc., and what is the point of that metal being in a VO?

What's TBN, and what is the scale for it? As in, what's considered a good value, and what isn't?

I can assume some of the metals in the UOA are metals from engine wear, and not a good thing.

 

[haley10]

Read the explanation on Bob's Home Page. It is called "What is Oil Analysis." It should answer some of your questions. Look on the left side bar for the topic.

 

[JakeR22]

Thats a good start for knowing acceptable levels of metals in used oil. Thanks.

What about TBN levels?

Or oil "groups"?

[ September 24, 2004, 11:36 AM: Message edited by: JakeR22 ]

 

[TC]

http://theoildrop.server101.com/cgi/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=3;t=000926

"To determine the correct length EODI you must first implement an oil analysis program to develop history on each piece of equipment scheduled for extended oil service. This will allow you to determine if there is any usable life left in the oil. The primary indicators will be Silicon (dirt), Viscosity (Oil Film Strength), Soot (Combustion by-product), and Total Base Number (TBN). Most engine manufacturers have oil analysis guidelines.
Typically you will want to keep your silicon within 15 ppm of the initial oil sample, your
Viscosity within the original oil grade specifications, Soot below 3%, and the TBN
number above 3. Each piece of equipment will vary and the key is to look for trends in the analysis."
http://www.baldwinfilter.com/engineer/tsb.html (TSB-98-1)

 

[haley10]

Read "Basic Lube Design" at the same place. TBN is somewhat explained. Don't get hung up in absolute TBN numbers for new oil. TBN retention is the important thing over time and is much affected by the quality of the base oil.

Search the web. Castrol, Exxon/Mobil, Chevron, etc. all have good web sites that explain the Group I, II, III, IV, V processes and what they are.