Flagging Limits: FAQ

Why does Fluid Life update their flagging limits?

At Fluid Life, we pride ourselves in the quality of our lab services. Since we use statistically generated flagging levels, we are always able to adapt to technological, environmental, operational and other changes which impact your oil analysis results. To ensure the best product for you, our flagging limits constantly evolve just like your operation.

How come my last sample isn’t flagged but it is this time?

We have updated your flagging limits to include the most recent samples as well as additional information about the unit and components. This will result in more accurate flagging limits to serve you better.

If you have more specific questions, please let us know.

Why is my Sample Rank so high when there are no severe test results?

Sample Rank™ is an algorithm designed to alert you to problematic results which can cause equipment failure. Presence of fuel, water, glycol and/or a spike in particles can trigger a high Sample Rank as there is potential failure occurring.

How can I ensure my site has the best flagging limits?

With the recent updates, we include new information to help us compute your flagging limits. To ensure the right limits get applied to the right equipment here are some tips:

• Ensure all unit information is correct (manufacturer, model, unit type, etc.)
• Ensure all component information is correct (manufacturer, model, component type, component hours, reference oil. etc.)
• Ensure a recent (less than 1 year old) reference oil sample has been provided to Fluid Life for every oil at your site.
• Ensure representative samples are being taken and that sample information is correct (oil hours, oil change, etc.). View sampling procedures.
• Check with your Fluid Life sales representative that your industry is correct.
• If you are unsure where to start, contact a Fluid Life representative.

What should I do if I have too many flags?

Too many flags indicate that there are reliability, oil cleanliness and/or unique operating conditions at your site which are causing flagging limits to be applied that are not suitable for your company. Contact a Reliability Specialist to work with you on a flagging optimization project to help your site apply statistical and engineering based logic to better your oil analysis program.

How can you take the best oil samples?

View our sampling procedures for ways to improve your sampling processes.

How do I interpret my oil analysis results

We have a number of articles, videos, and guides on our Resource Center to support interpretation of your oil analysis results. You can view the list of resources here. Otherwise, you can contact your Fluid Life Representative to set up a short personalized data interpretation session to review examples of your results.