Standard Test Method for Determination of Wear Metals and Contaminants in Used Lubricating Oils or Used Hydraulic Fluids by Rotating Disc Electrode Atomic Emission Spectrometry

1.1 This test method covers the determination of wear metals and contaminants in used lubricating oils and used hydraulic fluids by rotating disc electrode atomic emission spectroscopy (RDE-AES).

1.2 This test method provides a quick indication for abnormal wear and the presence of contamination in new or used lubricants and hydraulic fluids.

1.3 This test method uses oil-soluble metals for calibration and does not purport to relate quantitatively the values determined as insoluble particles to the dissolved metals. Analytical results are particle size dependent and low results may be obtained for those elements present in used oil samples as large particles.

1.4 The test method is capable of detecting and quantifying elements resulting from wear and contamination ranging from dissolved materials to particles approximately 10 m in size.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. The preferred units are mg/kg (ppm by mass).

1.6This standard does not purport to address all the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this method to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.