Work with your oil analysis provider to create a complete and accurate equipment list in your system. This sounds basic, but that information is valuable when evaluating test data and making maintenance recommendations.
How often samples should be collected depends on the type of equipment, the environment in which it operates, and the work it performs. But always remember that you are in control of how often samples are drawn. Preventive maintenance recommendations from equipment manufacturers and oil distributors are good starting points, but may be too frequent or infrequent for your maintenance goals. Once your company establishes a sampling protocol, you need to focus on it.
Take time to evaluate the performance of your program. Measuring progress will help you identify areas that are performing well and which ones need improvement. Program reviews also help you communicate the results of your efforts to management and maintenance personnel.
The companies need at least one person within their organization to drive success in the areas mentioned above. You must lead the oil analysis efforts, and you must focus on saving your business money in the long run. You will be working with the maintenance team and will likely need to address behavior change within the company
