Example oil report - trend

Breakdown of results

Our comments The hydraulic fluid is generally in stable operating condition, with viscosity, TAN, and water levels all within acceptable ranges and showing no sign of degradation. The overall cleanliness level has significantly improved, achieving ISO 19/17/12, which is a notable improvement over the previous ISO 21/19/13. Copper remains elevated but trending downward, while other wear metals are neutral or improving. No signs of abnormal system stress are present. The system is currently assigned a B (Monitor) condition rating.

Lab comments THE COPPER READING IS A LITTLE ELEVATED BUT OTHER WEAR READINGS GENERALLY GIVE US NO CAUSE FOR CONCERN

Wear

Additives

Physical properties

Contamination

Wear metals show a stable or improving trend overall. • Copper: 176 ppm ( ↓ from 231 ppm) • Still elevated, but significantly improving. • Common in systems with brass/bronze components or heat exchangers. - Despite copper still being high, all other wear indicators suggest no active abnormal wear.

All physical parameters remain within expected limits for a hydraulic oil in service. Viscosity 40°C: 56.8 cSt (previous 58.8 cSt) – slight reduction, normal for use - Viscosity Index: 120 ( ↑ from 108) – indicates more stable viscosity behaviour. Water 125 ppm (previous 141 ppm) Reduction indicates improved moisture control; well below critical levels. TAN (Acidity) 0.44 mgKOH/g (previous 0.41) Essentially stable; no oxidation concerns.

• Additive levels have increased modestly, consistent with top-up or natural depletion correction. • This profile is typical of a ZDDP based hydraulic package, and the increases

ISO Code • Current: 19/17/12 • Previous: 21/19/13 A two-code drop across the board — excellent improvement in hydraulic cleanliness. PQ Index • 4 , down from 9 Indicates reduced ferrous debris in circulation.

do not indicate contamination.

Recommendations / advisories -

1. Continue Using the SDU System – Cleanliness Improving - The unit is clearly performing well, evidenced by large particle count reductions. Continue operating unchanged. 2. Copper Trend Monitoring - Although copper is declining, continue monitoring: Possible sources: bushings, thrust washers, coolers - No action required yet due to improving trend and stable iron levels. 3. Moisture Control - Water content is falling and well within limits, but continued monitoring is advised: Ensure breathers are functioning Check reservoir sealing 4. Next Step: Aim for ISO 18/16/13 or better - With continued SDU filtration, achieving an extra code drop is realistic. 5. Maintain Routine Sampling - Another sample at the normal interval will confirm whether copper continues downward and cleanliness trends hold.