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	Using an on-site analyzer, SwRI can evaluate one-ounce samples of both mineral-based gasoline and diesel oil products for metals and physical properties.

For many years, American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standardized tests have been a popular choice for used oil analysis testing. Now, Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has lower cost alternative testing options available for clients not requiring high-end, in-depth testing of used automotive lubricants.

The SwRI alternative used oil testing capability is significantly less expensive than standard ASTM test methods and can prove valuable when non-standardized testing is applicable to the client's needs. Credible results can be obtained in a matter of minutes.

This used oil test can be a quick and valuable tool for a variety of clients including:

• Fleet owners

• Individual used vehicle buyers

• Used car lot owners Individual vehicle owners

This test is not intended to replace current ASTM tests for used oil analysis; it provides a low-cost, faster alternative for analyzing used oil when a lower end version of traditional testing is acceptable.

Tests for Metals and Physical Properties

The used oil test includes emissions and infrared spectroscopy to monitor engine or transmission interval wear rates and the physical properties of the oil's condition and
serviceability.

Using an on-site analyzer, SwRI can evaluate one-ounce samples of both mineral-based gasoline and diesel oil products for metals and physical properties. The used oil analysis reports include the detected presence of nine metals – six wear metals and three contaminants – in parts per million (PPM).

Wear Metals Detected in Used Oil

	The used oil test includes emissions and infrared spectroscopy to monitor engine or transmission interval wear rates and the physical properties of the oil's condition and serviceability.

Wear metals are minute particles of metal suspended in the used oil often caused by the friction between moving parts, abrasion or corrosion. The wear metals that can be detected and reported include:

• Aluminum (Al)

• Chromium (Cr)

• Copper (Cu)

• Tin (Sn)

• Lead (Pb)

• Iron (Fe)

Physical Properties of Used Oil

• Water

• Oxidation

• Nitration

• Glycol fuel

• Soot (diesel products only)

• Viscosity at 100 °C

• Total base number (TBN), estimated value

A summary statement of the general condition of the oil sample processed is provided at the end of the six-minute test.

For more information about our alternative for used oil analysis, or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Janet Barker at jbarker@swri.org or (210) 522-6924.

usedoil.swri.org

| Petroleum Products Research Department | Fuels and Lubricants Research Division | SwRI Home |

Southwest Research Institute^® (SwRI^®), headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, is a multidisciplinary, independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 11 technical divisions.

December 28, 2012