Establish the baseline
Before a filtration trial, record asset hours, oil hours, fluid identity, top-ups, recent repairs and operating conditions. Agree sampling location and procedure with the laboratory and site team. Take representative samples using a safe, approved method; do not improvise a live pressurised connection.
Repeat the method
Use clean laboratory containers and label each sample immediately. Keep the sampling point, operating state and method consistent where practical. Note any change so that a shift caused by sampling technique is not mistaken for a machine fault.
- Asset and compartment ID
- Date, time, machine hours and oil hours
- Oil brand, grade and top-ups
- Sampling point, method and operating state
- Recent service, filtration and abnormal events
Read more than the particle count
Ask the laboratory which tests are appropriate to the fluid and application. Particle contamination, water, viscosity, wear indicators and oil chemistry answer different questions. A visually clear sample does not prove that oil remains fit for service.
Escalate on evidence
Compare trends with the laboratory's interpretation and equipment-specific limits. Investigate abnormal results and sampling errors before extending service intervals. Filtration cannot restore consumed additives or reverse all chemical degradation. This guidance is not a laboratory diagnosis or a drain-extension approval.