What is included in my sample kit?
Sample jars are packaged in multiples of 10 or in bulk
- 3.5 fl. oz plastic container with a threaded lid
- 9 fl. oz plastic container for samples that require additional testing (special order)
- The jar opening is 1.49 in. to allow the use of the vampire sampling pump (assures that a clean, representative sample is taken quickly and consistently)
- The outer shipping container for each individual kit is a black plastic jar
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Sample cards must include information to the lab
For more information on sample cards download Sample Card Completion Procedures.
When should I sample my oil?
General guidelines are a starting point as the frequency of a sample depends on many different factors such as speed, machine/fluid environment, load, severity of duty, equipment tolerance, etc.
The first rule of thumb is to follow the OEM or OEM Distributor guidelines. *These must be followed for components under warranty.*
The generic guidelines for the following components are secondary;
| Component | Regulated Hours |
| Diesel Engines | 12 427 mi / 250 Hours / Monthly |
| Gasoline Engines | 6213 mi / Quarterly |
| Natural Gas Engines | 500 Hours / Monthly |
| Standby Generators | 50 Hours / Quarterly |
|
Hydraulics (Industrial) Hydraulics (Mobile) |
2000 Hours / Quarterly 500 Hours / Monthly |
| Gears (Industrial) | 750 Hours / Monthly |
| Air/Gas Compressors | 500 Hours / Monthly |
| Refrigeration Compressors | Quarterly |
| Gas Turbines | 500 Hours / Monthly |
| Steam Turbines | 1500 Hours / Quarterly |
How do I take my sample?
- Do not remove prepaid sticker from the sample jar
- Please do not write on the external black jars
- Always sample the oil while it is warm (i.e. while machine is running, or right after the machine has stopped)
- Engines should be sampled every 250 hours, other components every 500 hours
- Fill jar to the bottom of the threads, leaving 0.40 in. of airspace. This will prevent leakage or loss of sample during transport
- Attempt to keep oil off the threads of the jar
- Allow sample to cool and re-tighten the lid. Always ship samples in their black outer shipping jar to prevent accidental sample loss
- Please make sure sample is securely packaged and leak proof
- Please double check to see that you have included the appropriate documentation with your samples
Following these guidelines will ensure samples arrive intact and uncontaminated, so that we can give you the most accurate results. The Fluid Life Quality Policy begins with the customer and the submission of samples in good condition with proper documentation.
For more information on sample cards access our Sample Card or sign into myLab.