OIL ANALYSIS PROGR A M USER GUIDE

LUBEWATCH
®

CHEVRON RUN
SERVICES BETTER
CAN HELP YOU LONGER
Quality Oil Analysis Can Help Extend Equipment Life
LubeWatch® maintenance management system is a diagnostic,
preventive maintenance tool that uses oil analysis to monitor
and evaluate lubricant and equipment condition in all types of
mobile and industrial applications.
Lubricants are the “lifeblood” of machines and equipment. Routine testing and analysis
can show you how the condition of the lubricant can affect equipment performance and
reliability. Imagine being able to see exactly what’s happening inside an engine, a gearbox
or hydraulic system. Problems can be found before they become engine failures and less
unscheduled downtime means increased production and profitability.

What the LubeWatch Maintenance Manage System Can Do For You

• Identify minor problems before they become major failures
by monitoring trends in wear and contamination to help prevent
catastrophic failure
• Extend drain intervals by performing oil changes when the
condition of the oil requires it, helps reduce unnecessary labor costs
• Extend equipment life by monitoring system cleanliness helps
reduce repair and replacement costs and helps enable you to keep
equipment longer
• Maximize asset reliability by scheduling downtime according
to your schedule helps eliminate unforeseen decreased production

LUBEWATCH CAN HELP YOUR EQUIPMENT RUN BETTER LONGER

Reach a new level of reliability with LubeWatch Oil Analysis
Program User Guide. The combination of using LubeWatch with
our targeted services, allows our Chevron specialists to design
a lubrication plan that works in sync to help your equipment
continue to operate under demanding conditions.

To learn more, contact your marketer.

CHEVRONLUBRICANTS.COM/RBL
LubeWatch Oil Analysis Program Services
®

ALS has provided oil, engine coolant, fuel and metalworking fluids
testing services to the LubeWatch Maintenance Management System
since August 1994. ALS offers a full slate of testing capabilities and
standardized packages designed for the specific needs of Chevron
customers.

In addition to the LubeWatch packages listed below, ALS provides fluid

analysis packages designed to meet or exceed customer expectations
and over 150 different specialized ASTM methodologies that cover any
combination of conditions, fluids and applications.

Customer Service
ALS North American laboratories are able to assist LubeWatch customers. Kits and other
supplies can be ordered through the LubeWatch designated customer service phone number
(800-LUBE-808) or by contacting customer service at any of our North American laboratories
listed below. Our customer service organization is also available for new customer set-up,
equipment registration and any other general questions.

Atlanta, Georgia Cleveland, Ohio Kansas City, Kansas Portland, Oregon

3121 Presidential Dr. 6180 Halle Dr., Suite D 935 Sunshine Road 4943 NW Front Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30340 Valley View, OH 44125 Kansas City, KS 66115 Portland, OR 97210
800.394.3669 800.726.5400 800.332.8055 800.770.4128
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Burlington, Ontario (Canada) Edmonton, Alberta (Canada) Phoenix, Arizona

1240 Burloak Dr., Unit 6 10717-176 Street 3319 West Earll Dr.
Burlington, ON L7L 6B3 Edmonton, AB T5S 1K1 Phoenix, AZ 85017
877.732.9559 888.489.0057 800.445.7930
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

ALS offers a unique combination of testing and analytical solutions. Tribology

operations in North America provide comprehensive oil, fuel, engine coolant
and metalworking fluids testing services. With the largest independent laboratory
network in North America, ALS has a customer base of over 14,000 throughout
the United States, Canada and Mexico, including many Fortune 500 corporations.
Our dedication to the highest levels of customer service and excellence
is unmatched in the industry.

ALS has over 13,000 staff, operates over 370 laboratories in 65 countries and is
one of the largest independent analytical groups in the world providing fluids analysis,
minerals, coal, environmental and nondestructive testing services. As one of the world’s
most diversified testing services providers, ALS has sites strategically located to provide
accurate and timely services. The company has teams of experts around the world available
to provide specialized business solutions that align with client needs. Major hub facilities are
located in Australia, Asia, North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

1
LubeWatch® Oil Analysis Program Provided by ALS

OIL ANALYSIS TEST PACKAGES

C4IND C5
C1 C2 C3 C4 C4PC
Paper Metal-
Test Parameter Basic Diesel Natural Basic Advanced
Machine + working
Lubrication Crankcase Gas Industrial Industrial
Turbine Oil Fluids

Elemental Analysis
(Wear, Contaminants,
• • • • • • •
Additive and
Multi-Source)

Viscosity
• • • • • • •
@40°C or 100°C

Water Content % Vol • • • • •

Water Content PPM • •

Engine Coolant
Contamination • • • • •
(if applicable)

Fuel Dilution
• •
(if applicable)

Fuel Soot
• •
(if applicable)

Acid Number • • • •

Base Number •

Oxidation • • • • •

Nitration •

Particle Count with

• •
ISO Rating

Copper Corrosion •

Sulfur •

Solids •

Initial pH •

2
ENGINE COOLANT ANALYSIS TEST PACKAGES
C3 CTELCA
C7 CT-AF C2 CTELC
Test Parameter Advanced
Basic Conventional Basic Extended Life
Extended Life

Visual Assessment • • •

pH • • •

Freeze Point • • •

Percent Glycol • • •

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) •

Nitrite • • •

Nitrate • •

Phosphate •

Chloride •

Sulfur •

Glycolate •

Spectrochemical Analysis •

Boil Point Calculated • •

Carboxylate Acid • •

Advanced Turbine Testing

ALS has developed an exclusive
test bundle and report. Turbine Oil
Suitability adheres to the guide-
lines established by ASTM D4378,
“Standard Practice for In-Service
Monitoring of Mineral Turbine Oils
for Steam and Gas Turbine.” This
bundle is structured on a progressive
tier of analytical tests based on service
time, condition and turbine type
(steam or gas).

3
LubeWatch® Oil Analysis Program Provided by ALS

Advanced Turbine Testing Continued

Turbine Oil Suitability report is issued as an evaluation of the submitted lubricant sample to determine its suit-
ability for continued in-service use as a turbine circulating oil and/or EHC control fluid. The tests performed are
selected to provide in-depth analysis of the lubricant’s key properties, contamination, and irregular component
wear impacting the performance of the turbine and the oil’s suitability for continued use. The commentary and
other information in this report provide guidance for the turbine operator. Special attention is paid to indicators
that the in-service oil exhibits characteristics that will enable continued use and what, if any, corrective action is
required to address a specific condition the analysis has identified.

ALS is the exclusive provider of Advanced Turbine Oil Suitability packages for the Chevron LubeWatch program.
These packages are identified as TOS-1 through TOS-5.

ADVANCED TURBINE OIL PACKAGES

TOS-5
C6 TOS-1 TOS-2 TOS-3 TOS-4
Steam + Gas
Test Parameter Turbine New Oil/New Steam + Gas Steam Turbine Gas Routine
Annual
Oil Oil Charge Routine PM PM Quarterly PM Quarterly
Suitability

Acid Number • • • • • •

Appearance • • • • •

Color • • • • •

Copper Corrosion • •

Elemental Analysis
(Wear, Contaminants, • • • • • •
Additive + Multi-Source)

Foam, Seq 1 • •

FTIR Baseline •

FTIR Oxidation • • • • •

Inhibitor Additives, RULER

• •
Baseline

Particle Count • • • • •

Rotating Pressure Vessel

• • •
Oxidation Test (RPVOT)

Rust • •

Varnish Potential* • • • • • •

Water Content by Karl

• • • • • •
Fischer PPM

Water Separability • • •

Compatibility Detailed
Optional
Analytical Report

*Varnish Potential Analysis includes: Blotter, Color, Ultracentrifuge, Membrane Patch Colorimetry (MPC), Pentane Insolubles by
Weight, ISO Particle Count, Inhibitor Additives, RULER Baseline

4
SAMPLING SUPPLIES

Part Part No. Description

1/4" B series sampling valve—recommended for pressurized

C-VB14 systems (5 to 3000 psi), maximum sample pressure 750 psi.
Suitable for general industrial, plant, and utility.

Probe adapter for use with B Series Valve. Designed to

C-PROBEB14 transfer between valves/remove after sampling. Tubing
also requires for use with adapter.

1/4" KP Pushbutton Sampling Valve recommended for

pressurized systems (5 to 3000 psi), maximum sample
C-VKP14
pressure 750 psi. Suitable for engines, transmissions,
compressors, and in-line hydraulics.

1/8" KP Pushbutton Sampling Valve recommended for

pressurized systems (5 to 3000 psi), maximum sample
C-VKP18
pressure 750 psi. Suitable for engines, transmissions,
compressors, and in-line hydraulics.

1/8" KST Series Valve recommended for vacuum systems,

pressurized systems (5 to 3000 psi) maximum sample
VK18
pressure 750 psi. Suitable for general off-highway, mobile
and marine applications.

LT Series High Flow Tube Extend 1/4" OD high flow tube

VLT14NT12
extend with 12" tube (0 to 100 psi).

LT Series Probe Adapter 1/4" OD Probe Adapter for

VADAPT14L
L/LT valve.

Needle Probe Samplyzer for use with needle port valves

C8-CAPPROBE
and required with KST valve.

C5-PUMP-RED Suction Dual Pump.

C6-TUBROL1/4 100' Roll Suction Pump plastic tubing (pre-cut also

C6-TUBROL3/16 available) in 1/4" or 3/16" OD.

5
Data Management & WEBTRIEVE™
ALS and the Chevron LubeWatch® Oil Analysis Program
offer a great deal of flexibility in managing fluid analysis data.
The laboratory can transmit reports via email, provide access
to a website to view/manage data or send a data file that can
be imported into third party software programs.
The LubeWatch Webtrieve™ system provides flexibility in managing and querying test data and is easy to use.
Because it is a secure, Internet-based program, it allows clients access to data from anywhere in the world.
With Webtrieve, customers have direct entry into our real-time global database of all samples processed by
ALS regardless of laboratory location.

Key Features
• Modern look and design
• Real time tracking of sample progression at the
• Dashboards that display key statistics at a glance
click of a button—when samples have reached the
• Additional query capability for higher level lab, are being processed, are complete
hierarchies
• Ability to build and store custom reports
• Tag items to build custom groups
• Variety of test report formats available, and data
• Flag favorite pages for easy access to frequently is easily imported into other software programs—
used functionality such as Excel
• Ability to print test reports in batches • Simple, one-step search function to quickly find
• Internet-based application, so data is available from sample data and statistics
wherever you are—review, email and print sample • Multiple levels of security; authorization of access
reports at your convenience level confirmed before registration approved
• Online sample submission featuring a bar-coded
label wizard for error-free lab sample entry,
assurance of data integrity, and turnaround time
transparency

6
The Chevron LubeWatch® website has a full suite of management reports and data
mining capabilities to assist with improving and managing the program. Searching
for information based on a compartment type and/or other variables is easy and
quick. Users have the ability to assess compartments by problem and testing thresh-
olds to quickly identify the equipment for which maintenance action is needed. This
application allows clients to review, email, print reports, print labels and produce
management reports. The system is easy to use and allows for numerous levels of
access and data viewing permissions that are defined by the customer.

ALS will aid in the importing of equipment information and/or historical data.
Additional value is obtained by ensuring that the equipment makes, models
and other information are correctly entered into the system. Once equipment
is pre-entered into the system, labels can be printed for submission, thereby
reducing the effort and possibility for errors when submitting first-time samples.
The Webtrieve™ generated label allows users to track their samples from the
point of receipt to testing completion. It also simplifies the data entry process and
significantly diminishes the possibility for errors in the data entry process, as all
information is downloaded from the bar code scan. Webtrieve™ is a powerful tool,
yet easy to use. Training is provided on system navigation and label printing so as
to familiarize you and your staff with the functions of this system.

To access the site, go to http://chevron.alstribology.com/.

WEBTRIEVE™ Mobile Application

Webtrieve™ Mobile is a simple to use app, for both iOS and
Android, that allows users to receive immediate sample
alerts in the palm of their hand. Designed for maintenance
professionals in the field, the app sends Instant alerts
to users based on sample condition. Basic information
such as unit ID, equipment type, and diagnostic com-
mentary are displayed for rapid maintenance response
and facilitating assessment to meet a client’s operational
needs. Notifications can be set for all results or just for
abnormalities

Key Features
• Mobile app is designed for immediate sample alerts
• App is available for iOS and Android
• Alerts are sent to users based on sample condition
• Basic information such as unit, type, condition and
diagnostic commentary are displayed
Webtrieve™ Mobile significantly improves response time
for clients who are out in the field or in remote locations.
To download Webtrieve™ Mobile, visit the Apple or Android
store and search for ALS Tribology.

7
SAMPLING INSTRUCTIONS
Scheduled Intervals
Ideally, oil samples should be taken in a manner that is easily repeatable and effec-
tively represents the actual condition of the oil in the equipment. Good sampling
procedures ensure consistency and reliability of data. Oil samples must be taken
on a regular preventive maintenance schedule. Do not take samples soon after an
oil change, filter change or after makeup oil has been added. Adding new oil dilutes
the levels of contaminants and wear metals found, which may result in conditions
appearing better than they actually are.

General Guidelines for Taking a Quality Sample

Each sample drawn must be taken regularly from a single location in a system.
Take samples during normal operating conditions, downstream of pumps, cylinders,
bearings, and gearboxes and upstream from the filter. When obtaining a sample from
a lubricated system, always have the oil hot and thoroughly mixed before sampling.
When possible and safe, always take the sample while the machine is running.

• Make sure that the sample bottle is clean and free of any moisture before
obtaining sample.
• When utilizing the vacuum pump method, make sure that sample is not obtained
from the bottom of the oil compartment where sludge accumulates. Aim for the
midpoint of the reservoir.
• Obtain samples during normal equipment operation or at least within
30 minutes after equipment is shut down. This is the best way to obtain
a truly representative sample of conditions within a lubricated compartment
or a machine compartment.
• Make sure that sample bottle and container are properly sealed before shipping.
• Fill out the sample information form correctly and completely.
• Ship sample to laboratory promptly to receive analysis results as soon as
possible.

Sample Valve Method

Install valves upstream of any filter in order to capture wear particles. Make sure the
valve is clean and adequately flushed. Using a sample valve, such as the 1/8" NPT
Push Button Valve, helps in producing reliable test results. Install valve properly on
a pressurized oil line or oil galley. Avoid areas where oil does not circulate as freely,
such as the bottom of a sump.

Taking an Oil Sample Using the Valve Method

1. Unscrew dust cap from sample valve.
2. Depress the button on the sample valve.
3. Flush the oil line allowing several ounces to drain before taking the sample.
4. Place the empty sample bottle under the sample valve discharge opening.
5. Fill the sample bottle 3/4 full and release the sample valve.
6. Tighten the cap on the sample bottle to secure a tight seal.
7. Screw the dust cap back on the valve. Prepare for shipment.

8
Sample Pump Method
If taking an oil sample using the pump method, operate the equipment long enough
to mix the oil thoroughly; bringing the oil to operating temperature is a good indica-
tion that the oil is adequately mixed. It is important that vacuum pumps are used with
appropriate tubing. Make sure that new tubing is used for each sample in order to
avoid cross contamination. Cut the tubing to the same length each time you sample.
Avoid scraping the tubing along the sides or bottom of the tank or reservoir. Use this
method with systems not equipped with sampling valves.

Taking an Oil Sample Using the Pump Method

1. Estimate the length of a piece of new tubing to reach half way into the depth
of the oil or midpoint of the reservoir (use dipstick, if available), and cut the
end at a 45° angle.
2. Insert the tubing through the head of the vacuum pump and tighten the
retaining nut. The tubing should extend about 1/2 inch beyond the base
of the vacuum pump head.
3. Install a new sampling bottle onto the vacuum pump and insert the end of
the tubing into the oil – do not allow the tubing to touch the bottom of the
compartment.
4. Pump the vacuum pump handle to create a vacuum. Hold the pump upright
to avoid oil from contaminating the pump. If oil enters the pump, disassemble
and clean it before taking the sample. Fill the oil sample bottle at least 3/4 full.
5. Remove the tubing from the compartment and dispose of it correctly. Do not
reuse tubing. Remove the bottle from the vacuum pump and secure the cap
on the bottle. Prepare for shipment.

Drain Line Method

The drain line method is considered the least preferred method of sampling.
If used, make sure that an ample amount of oil is drained before collecting a
sample. The sludge, particles and water that settle to the bottom of a tank or
reservoir, provides poor and sometimes unreliable results.

Taking an Oil Sample Using the Drain Method

1. Clean area around the drain plug to avoid sample contamination.
2. Allow ample amount of oil to flush through the oil pan drain hole.
3. Fill sample bottle 3/4 full.
4. Screw bottle cap on tightly. Wipe bottle clean and prepare for shipment.
5. Proper identification from each unit sample is crucial for tracking critical
reports and unusual wear.

9
SAMPLING INSTRUCTIONS
Sample Information Forms (SIF)
The laboratory requires that SIFs be filled out
completely and accurately, and are included with
the sample, in order to perform an accurate analysis.
The analyst uses the form to determine what is normal,
caution, abnormal, or severe for the component and
lubricant based on component make and model, lube
brand and grade, length of time or miles on the sample
and any other information provided by the customer.

Shipping Instructions
Ship all samples to the designated laboratory on the
same day that the sample is taken. Be sure that all
information is filled out correctly and completely on
the SIF. Place the sample bottle and SIF in the shipping
container provided, attach the shipping address label
and ship to the designated laboratory. It is the shipper’s
responsibility to follow all applicable regulations related
to proper packaging, labeling and offering for ship-
ment of fuel samples which are regulated as hazardous
materials. Please consult with the U.S. Department of
Transportation and your courier for more information.
If you have any questions regarding the fuel packag-
ing, please contact your local ALS customer service
representative.

10
Reference Guides
Wear Metal Reference Guide
Many times, users that test their in-service lubricants will look at reports and ask “what do these tests mean?”
Most routine analysis reports display similar test parameters for monitoring the condition of the operating
equipment and the lubricant in service. This simple guideline will help explain the use and meaning behind
the routine tests you are likely to see on an analysis report. Please note that this serves only as a guideline;
the elements listed do not purport to include all possible resources.

Chromium
Aluminum

Vanadium
When trace elements

Titanium
are detected, the

Copper

Nickel

Silver
following areas

Lead

(Ag)
Iron
(Cu)

(Sn)
(Pb)
(Fe)

(Ni)
(Cr)
(Al)

(Ti)
Tin

(V)
could be responsible:

Bearings • • • • • • • •

Bushings • • • • • •

Compressor Piston • • •

Cylinder /Liners • • •

Clutch Discs • • •

EGR •

Gears • • • •

Housing/Blocks • • •

Hydraulic Cylinders • • • • • •

Hydraulic Pumps • • • • • •

Oil Cooler • • • •

Pistons • •

Piston Skirt Overlay •

Rings • • • •

Rust •

Shafts • • • •

Thrust Plates • • • •

Thrust Washers • • • •

Turbine Blades • •

Valve Guides/Stem • • • •

Valve Trains • • •

Washers • • • •
LubeWatch® Oil Analysis Program Provided by ALS

LUBRICANT REFERENCE GUIDE

Molybdenum

Phosphorus
Magnesium
Antimony
Purpose of Lubricant

Titanium
Calcium

Sodium
Barium
Additive

Silicon
Boron

(Mg)

(Mo)

Zinc
(Na)
(Sb)

(Ba)

(Ca)

(Zn)
(Si)

(Ti)
(B)

(P)
Alkalinity Reserve • •
Anti-foam •
Anti-wear • • • •
Antioxidant • •
Corrosion Inhibitor •
Detergency • • •
Extreme Pressure • • • •
Friction Modifier •
Lubricity •
Rust Inhibitor •
Water Separability •

CONTAMINANT REFERENCE GUIDE

Silicon (Si)
Potassium
Aluminum

sium (Mg)
Boron (B)

When contaminants are detected,

Sodium
Magne-

the following could be the source:

(Na)
(Al)

(K)
After cooler Brazing Flux • •
Coolant • • • •
Dirt • •
Gasket/Seal Material •
Natural Gas (Wet Gas) Transferring •
Seawater • •

Physical and Chemical Tests for Lubricant Condition and Service Life
Improper Viscosity can affect a lubricant’s performance. Too low of a viscosity will
not create sufficient surface film to keep moving parts separated and prevent rubbing
on opposing metal surfaces. Too high of a viscosity will create excessive heat and
reduced fluid flow within circulating systems. A change in viscosity will indicate a
change in the fluid performance integrity. A drop in viscosity generally indicates
contamination with a lighter product, addition of an incorrect viscosity grade, and
in some cases thermal cracking. An increase in viscosity can indicate oxidation and
reduced service life due to age, addition of an incorrect viscosity grade, or excessive
soot or insoluble content.

Base Number represents the level of alkalinity reserve available for neutralizing acids
formed during the combustion process and may be introduced through recirculated
exhaust gases. As the lubricant ages and the additive package depletes, the base
number will decrease from its initial fresh oil value.

12
Acid Number in a new lubricant represents a certain level of additive compounding. This can come from
anti-rust, anti-wear or other additives. The acid number can drop a bit after a lubricant has been in service for a
certain period, which indicates some initial additive depletion. After a time the acid number will start to increase,
which indicates the creation of acidic degradation products related to oxidation. The acid number is a means of
monitoring fluid service life.

The Oxidation Number is a relative number that monitors increase in the overall oxidation of the lubricant by
infrared spectroscopy. This test parameter generally complements other tests for fluid service life, such as
viscosity and acid number. Generally this test is not used as a primary indicator when all other tests are within
normal limits. Accurate oil information is required to get the most valid test results.

The Nitration Number is a form of oxidation that relates to chemical reaction with nitrogen, forming nitrogenous
compounds also. Nitration is a relative number that monitors increase in the overall fluid degradation due to
reaction with nitrogen and oxygen by infrared spectroscopy. This test parameter generally complements other
tests for fluid service life, such as viscosity and acid number. Accurate oil information is required to get the most
valid test results. Contributors to increased nitration can come from exhaust gas blow-by or reaction with natural
gas products with the lubricant and heat. It is also an indicator of electrostatic discharge across filter surfaces in
turbine oil.

Physical and Chemical Tests for Lubricant Tests for Wear Debris
Contaminants Particle Quantification Index (PQI) is a valuable trend-
Water as a contaminant will generally lead to increased ing tool for monitoring the relative level of ferrous wear
corrosion, depletion of proper lubricating film, material within a lubricant sample.
decreased lubricant performance life and increased
acid formation. Filter Patch inspection provides a visual assessment of
wear particle and other solid debris present in a sample
Coolant contamination will degrade lubricant service after collection on a 0.8 micron to 5.0 micron filter
life and performance, create sludge and block lubricant membrane and examined by a microscope.
passageways.
Microscopic Particle Examination (Analytical
Fuel Dilution will decrease fluids viscosity, therefore Ferrography) provides detailed information on different
affecting its lubricity properties. Fuel dilution also wear particles present in a sample.
promotes degradation of lubricant service life and
additive properties. This is generally an exception test that provides
information on the type of metal makeup of the
Excessive Soot increases viscosity, creates excessive wear particles present and how they were formed.
wear, and will tie up active additives needed for
lubricant performance. • Additional information and resources are available
through the ALS eSource, our electronic newsletter.
“Clean Systems” require a minimum level of cleanliness Visit alsglobal.com/esourcearchive to view past
in order to operate reliably. This is especially true issues of eSource or to register to receive this free
for circulating systems with high pressure and close electronic newsletter via email.
tolerance components. The ISO Cleanliness Rating is a
convenient way to communicate the level of particulate
contamination within a system based on the Particle
Count for micron sizes greater than 4, 6, and 14.

13
LubeWatch® Oil Analysis Program Provided by ALS

Engine Coolant Reference Guide

Engine coolants are a mixture of glycol, inhibitors, and water. Each formula is designed for specific protection and
engine requirements. Mixing different coolants is not recommended and can compromise the coolant’s general
overall protective capability, resulting in decreased coolant life and damage to the cooling system and/or engine.
The following is a reference guide to assist in understanding the engine coolant data.

LUBRICANT REFERENCE GUIDE

Appearance
Target Observation Possible Result Corrective Action
Assessment

Degraded or contami-
Check shelf life of the
nated engine coolants
Clarity Clear Appear hazy or opaque coolant; check coolant
or a mixture of incom-
handling practices
patible coolant types

Clear, bright, and Verify original coolant color

Brown could indicate
representative of Decreased coolant of product in use; if brown
Color improper mixing of
the original engine protection was reported, check coolant
different coolants
coolant color handling practices

Water pump and seal

Presence of sediment
deterioration, liner
is typically indicative
pitting, copper and Add a non-SCA filter for ELC
Visible of additive fallout,
None aluminum corrosion, coolants; add an SCA filter to
Sediment corrosion, rust, scale
plugged oil cooler and conventional coolant systems
buildup, or other
radiator; poor sampling
contaminants
technique

Indication of fuel or oil

Combustion gas blowby
Visible contamination will be
into the coolant, leaking Check for any seal failures
Petroleum None observed usually in the
oil cooler; poor sam- and system integrity
Layer form of a separated
pling technique
layer

pH

Appearance
Target Observation Low pH Observation High pH Corrective Action
Assessment

Extended Life ELC Low pH (<7.5) ELC High pH (>9.5) Check coolant volume
7.5 – 9.5 pH Conventional Low pH Conventional High pH
Check for air leaks
(<8.5) (>11.0)
Conventional
Pressure check radiator cap
8.5 – 11.0 pH Low pH can lead to Mixed coolant types
metal corrosion Check SCA filter and replace
Over additized SCA
if needed (conventional
Air leaks will lower pH concentration
coolant only)
ELC Engine Improper coolant
Coolant and Electrical grounding issues
volume
Conventional (if coolant has a burnt smell)
Engine Shelf life of coolant,
Combustion gas leak if pH
Coolant age will lower the pH
is below 7.0
Under additized
Remove SCA filter when
SCA concentration ELC coolants are in use,
(conventional coolant) this will add pH buffer
and raise the pH
Drain, flush, refill then
resample

14
Nitrites

Observation Low Observation High

Nitrites Target Corrective Action
Nitrites Nitrites

Initial coolant Verify coolant type Verify coolant type Check the coolant mixture,
concentration in use in use if under r over concentrated,
typically this will impact the nitrite level
Under concentrated Over concentration
>1200 PPM when present
with glycol of glycol
Nitrite only If low, look at nitrate level; if
Improper coolant Improper coolant
formulas >300 pH has dropped, check for
mixing mixing
PPM for nitrite/ head gasket leaks, low coolant
molybdate Under concentration Over concentration volumes, and pressure check
formulas < 25 of SCAs for conven- of SCAs for conven- radiator cap
for nitrite free tional coolants tional coolants
Rapid depletion could indicate
overheating of the cooling system
and localized hot spots, check;
this will occur along with an
Nitrite increase in glycolates
Rapid depletion could also
indicate electrical shorts; check
grounding, coolant will have a
burnt smell
If using ELC, check for a
precharged SCA filter and replace
with a non-precharged filter
If nitrites are low, but carboxylate
acid inhibitor passed, resample at
next service interval
Drain 50% of system and add
50/50 coolant, resample

Carboxylate Acid Technology

Carboxylate
Target Observation Low OAI Observation High OAI Corrective Action
Acid

Passing level Verify coolant type Verify coolant type Adjust coolant concentration;
depends on the in use in use if over concentrated, add proper
initial extended source water; if under concen-
Under concentrated Over concentrated
life coolant’s trated, add glycol concentrate;
with glycol with glycol
inhibitor level check freeze point and resample
formula Improper coolant Improper coolant at next service interval
mixing mixing
Under concen- >25 % diluted, add FleetFix
trated with glycol Coolant is brown – Maintenance, allowed two times
OAI possible improper over the life of the equipment;
Improper coolant
conversion from con- resample to confirm inhibitor
mixing
ventional to extended level
Coolant is brown – life
If coolant was improperly mixed
possible improper
with conventional and extended
conversion from
life coolant, apply FleetFix
conventional to
Conversion following Chevron’s
extended life
instruction; resample to confirm
inhibitor level

15
LubeWatch® Oil Analysis Program Provided by ALS

OTHER ION CHROMATOGRAPHY DATA

Ion
Chromatography Source
Results

Outside contaminants and can come from improper source water or air leaks. It has the potential to form
Chlorides
acids and cause corrosion. It can also come from coolant degradation due to aging.

Is among a group of acids that form as coolant degrades. This will also increase when overheating or hot
Glycolates
spots are occurring. As this acid increases, iron corrosion is at risk.

Molybates Provides protection of cast iron corrosion and cavitations.

Provides protection of light alloys also provides aluminum and solder protection. If nitrites are being
Nitrates
exposed to air, they will chemically transform to nitrate – when this occurs look for air leaks.

pH buffer utilized in some coolant brands and provides iron corrosion protection. Over treating the
cooling system can lead to sediment detection resulting in possible plugged oil cooler or radiator. Some
Phosphates
engines that are aluminum must be phosphate free, check OEM requirements before using a phosphate
coolant.

This contaminant can combine with calcium to create scale. This can also indicate coolant degradation
Sulfates
due to aging or improper source water is being used.

COOLANT SPECTROCHEMICAL DATA

Molybdenum (Mo)
Magnesium (Mg)

Phosphorus (P)
Aluminum (Al)

Purpose of
Potassium (K)
Calcium (Ca)

Sodium (Na)
Copper (Cu)

Lubricant Silicon (Si)

Silver (Ag)
Boron (B)

Lead (Pb)

Additive

Zinc (Zn)
Iron (Fe)

Tin (Sn)
Additive
• • • • • •
Elements

Corrosion
• • • • • • •
Elements

Water Elements • •

16
Chevron Reliability — The RBL™ Program is our
commitment of business support and reliability: Chevron’s
lubrication expertise combined with superior products and a
tailored service program work together to help your business
Run Better Longer.

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