FLUID ANALYSIS
EMPIRE'S SOS FLUIDS LAB
Oil & fluid samples provide a window into your equipment’s overall health. Through trend analysis, our labs can detect potential problems long before they materialize.
Scheduled Oil Sampling (SOS) is a regular maintenance program designed to monitor the overall condition of all equipment brands and machine types from industries including construction, mining, aviation, municipalities, marine, and more!
CHECK YOUR MACHINE HEALTH WITH A SINGLE SAMPLE
NOT ALL LABS ARE CREATED EQUAL
THE EMPIRE DIFFERENCE
Fluids testing in our lab is performed by factory-trained analysts who understand equipment components and can provide a fast and accurate turnaround.
You’ll be able to access your results online once we complete the analysis of your sample. We’ll also provide a set of service recommendations based on your results that will allow you to prioritize important repairs.
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130,000+ samples processed annually
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Same-day, online access to test results
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Samples can be dropped off or delivered to any Empire parts dropbox
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Experience in interpretation backed by a worldwide Caterpillar network
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Evaluate 30+ characteristics from one sample
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Complimentary sample collection training
TESTING FOR ALL TYPES OF FLUIDS
Expert fluid analysis is a key part of good equipment management. It helps you maintain overall equipment health – so you can maximize uptime and avoid costly failures. During SOS Services analysis, multiple tests are performed on engine, hydraulic and drive train oils – plus coolants, too.
Take a closer look at our tests and see what we’re looking for to help you maximize your equipment.
OIL ANALYSIS LAB SERVICES
Oil sample analysis allows you to pinpoint inefficiencies and problem areas before they require costly repairs.
By being proactive about oil sample testing, you can:
- Avoid major repairs and system failures by fixing minor problems before they become serious.
- Reduce downtime and schedule service in advance.
- Get the most use out of replaceable components by knowing exactly when they need to be changed.
- Have a demonstrable service history for your equipment that will improve its resale value when it’s time to upgrade.
COOLANT ANALYSIS & TESTING
Making sure the coolant and cooling systems in your equipment are running properly is essential to preventing premature wear and unexpected breakdowns. Empire Fluids Lab offers 2 levels of coolant testing.
Coolant Condition Analysis: Level 1 and Level 2
Factors tested in a basic (Level 1) coolant analysis include:
- pH: Abnormal pH levels contribute to a number of problems with the cooling systems of your equipment. Low pH (more acidic) coolant will wear out your cooling system components faster, whereas high pH (more alkaline) test results may indicate contaminants in your coolant.
- Conductivity: Conductivity is a useful factor for identifying contaminants in coolant fluids as conductivity is an important safety concern for certain equipment and applications.
- Nitrite: Nitrite is present in most coolant fluids as an additive that protects certain parts from erosion and oxidation. Conventional coolants with reduced nitrite levels should be replaced to ensure the proper functioning of your equipment.
- Physical properties: In addition to chemical testing, factors tested in a coolant analysis include odor, appearance, color and precipitate.
Also included in a basic coolant analysis are boiling and freezing point analysis, glycol percentage assessment and foaming, oil and fuel presence testing. Clients requiring a more detailed look at the condition of their coolant, including chemical, system health and water quality measurements, can upgrade to a more extensive Level 2 coolant testing.
FUEL TESTING SERVICES
Empire’s Fluids Lab fuel testing services include API gravity, flash point determination, wear metal and additive analyses. Our services determine the presence of oil in the fuel system and pinpoint the likeliest source of the leak. As part of our standard fuel testing services, we also check for bacterial contaminants, fungus, dirt and other things that can build up and lead to fuel filter clogging.
Fuel that has been stored for an extended period of time can become contaminated through water condensation and algae growth. Regular monitoring and testing can help ensure your stored fuel supply remains usable over the long term.
ADDITIONAL FLUID TESTING SERVICES AVAILABLE
Empire Fluids Lab offers a number of additional fluid analysis tests to check on component functionality. These tests include:
- Hydraulic Fluid Analysis: Measures a number of factors to assess the overall health of your hydraulic systems. It’s not uncommon for a hydraulic oil test to find elevated levels of iron, chrome and silicone.
- Transmission Fluid Analysis: Typical problems identified by a transmission fluid analysis include friction materials, dirt and wear materials from bearings and bushings.
- Microscope Analysis: Microscope Analysis provides a clear and accurate view of the types of particles that are being produced in the oil, as well as their number and size.
RESULTS DELIVERED IN 24-HOURS
QUICK TURNAROUND. GUARANTEED.
Visit SOS Web for easy access to important information about your fleet anywhere you go. You can also view and analyze fluid sample results, evaluations, and equipment history.
The Importance of Scheduled Oil Sampling
Protect Your Engine
When dirt or metal particles enter the oil supply, lubricants play the crucial role of protecting an engine's moving parts against wear, tear, and engine failure.
Early Detection
Regular analysis can detect weak or contaminated oil and ensure that the viscosity is appropriate for the equipment's operating temperature and climate.
Protection From Corrosion
Sampling can also evaluate the oil's level of oxidation that leads to increased oil viscosity, causing corrosive acids to form or interfere with protective oils.
3 STEPS TO GET STARTED
All fluids should be sampled at regular intervals in order to establish a good trend. Consistent and quality sampling techniques ensure that reliable and quality reports are provided and recommendations are accurate.
Samples should be taken at recommended manufacturer intervals.
1. Take a good, clean sample using the valve method or vacuum extraction:
2. Fill out the sample information label completely. Provide accurate information about the sample and the equipment it came from.
3. Submit samples from all compartments promptly and on a regular and consistent basis. Drop off at any Empire location near you.
GET IN TOUCH
Drop off samples at any Empire location near you or contact us for assistance.
1725 S. Country Club Dr. (Product Support Building) Mesa, AZ 85210
480-633-4835
