Where is a suitable location to take oil samples for oil analysis?
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For mechanical equipment equipped with an oil system, when conducting oil analysis on the oil system, some people say it is reasonable to take samples from the bottom of the oil tank; if there are no issues there, then there will be no problems elsewhere as well. But some people say that oil samples should be taken from the oil filter or water cooler, because this is the actual oil in use, and the readings here are the most accurate. What do everyone think?
Under normal circumstances, due to specific gravity, the oil at the bottom of the tank contains the highest amount of water; this point is suitable as a basis for oil filtration. However, the fuel tank sampling port is located below the fuel outlet and is in a non-flowing state, containing stagnant fuel; its other components cannot be used as a basis for determining the quality of the fuel.
Depending on the main item you want to test, for example if you want to check for water in the oil, it is appropriate to take a sample from the bottom of the tank. If the focus is on general parameters such as impurities, it is better to take samples from the oil cooler or filter.
Routine tests include level, demulsification time, viscosity, flash point, etc.