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• Manage Equipment The LOAMS® equipment manager gives users the ability to simply drag and

drop to move or merge unit and component records between locations

within an account They can also add, delete or update missing component

information without having to contact the laboratory.

• Submit Samples and Print Jar Labels Online LOAMS® keeps sampling schedules on track- submitting sample information

online reduces data entry errors and allows users to track samples from arrival

at the laboratory through testing and reporting.

• Results in Real Time Users have access to results almost immediately upon completion. They can

be viewed immediately in the Sample In box and printed or emailed to others.

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Track trends in abnormal test results for individual pieces of equipment

using multiple test parameters

• Comparison Graphing View test results by make or model to compare equipment performance

between individual units or across populations of units

• Condition Summary Graphing Chart sample condition for specific components to view performance

compared to similar models or families of component types

• Widget Graphs Customize graph types for home page management report widgets

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Getting the right information to the right

people at the right time can determine an

oil analysis program's level of success.

• Utilize filters to automate email

distributions of sample reports and

management reports specific to other

LOAMS users and non-users.

• Filter data by date range, severity,

unit ID, make, model, etc, to manage

multiple accounts or sort large sets of

data for distribution.

Have a QR code app on your smartphone? Take a picture of this image to watch

a video on LOAMS®

•••

6 Ways to Maximize Your Oil Analysis Software Value

rganizations have used oil analysis for decades to identify lubrication problems that could require equipment repair

or even shut dow an entire line of heavy machinery. Although the technique for sample collection remains predominantly unchanged, technology has revolutionized the information available once the sample is analyzed. Improved technology, however, can mean a sea of data, which may be overwhelming to even the most business-savvy customer. There are many oil analysis software programs that promise to process compli-cated data, interpret results and offer recommendations. Additionally, beyond traditional sample analysis, software programs now offer systems for managing maintenance sched-ules, advanced data graphing and data-mining applications.

Not surprisingly, today’s plant engineers and fleet managers have several options when selecting software to manage their oil analysis needs. Choosing the proper software and maxi-mizing its features can provide a huge payback for the user through reduced machinery maintenance expenses.

For more than 50 years, oil analysis has been used to help diagnose the internal condition of oil-wetted components. Original testing methods focused on visual inspection coupled with a simple smell test. First used in the railroad industry in 1946, laboratory analysts detected problems in diesel engines through evaluation of metals in used oils. By 1955, the United States Naval Bureau of Weapons had adopted oil analysis procedures to predict aircraft component failure.

Testing and evaluation practices have evolved dramatically over the last five decades, making oil analysis one of the most effective predictive maintenance technologies available. Monumental changes have taken place within the laboratory in the areas of sample evaluation and more importantly in how the data is reported and managed.

As recently as 10 years ago, customers collected an oil sample, hand-wrote information on a label and mailed the sample to the laboratory via traditional mail services. Two or three weeks later, the customer would receive a hard copy of the laboratory report in the mail. Today, improved instrumen-tation, streamlined delivery services and enhanced technology put comprehensive results in a customer’s hand within 24

hours. This shortened result cycle is essential in the identifica-tion of critical samples and can prevent expensive equipment repairs and costly downtime.

Additional benefits of a properly executed oil analysis program include reduced lubricant costs, decreased energy

Oil AnAlYSiS

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consumption, enhanced equipment efficacy, improved produc-tion, and reduced risk of injury and environmental damage.

Technology EnhancementsAs research and technology have advanced over the years,

progress in lubricant testing has kept pace. The following are some of the key areas of technology enhancement in the oil analysis industry:

information DeliveryOnce limited to a single hard copy of a distinct sample,

customers can now review results online, download reports and share them with colleagues. The delivery cycle has also

been condensed from several weeks to within 24 hours. “I can do oil analysis 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365

days a year,” says industry expert and consultant John Under-wood. “I used to have to wait for weeks for the paper to show up in the mail two weeks after I submitted the sample.”

Sample identificationWithin the last decade, technology has allowed field techni-

cians to use the Internet to input comprehensive data about each oil sample. This improvement has reduced the risk of incorrect information gleaned from hand-written forms as well as increased the amount of information technicians can provide to laboratories about each sample.

Enhanced FunctionalityCurrent oil analysis software programs offer improved

reporting capabilities that extend far beyond the examina-tion of a single sample. In addition to maintenance program management tools, software developments have enabled cross-comparison of makes, models and lubricant types within the asset population. Maintenance administrators can

manage equipment information online and provide it to laboratory experts, which in turn enables data-mining capa-bilities that can identify critical trends. Graphing tools can also give a visual representation of the results.

Selecting an Oil Analysis Software ProgramChoosing a laboratory and technology partner for your

predictive maintenance program is not a decision to be taken lightly. Rather, it is important for this strategic evaluation to consider several essential factors:

Third-Party StatusBy selecting an independent lab, customers are assured

non-biased information from an organi-zation that encourages total access and utilization of all the data and manage-ment tools available. Brand-specific laboratories may be experts on their own products, but they may not be trained on a variety of equipment or lubricants. While independent sources are always fee-based, these organiza-tions offer the most state-of-the-art technology and services available. The bottom line is that it’s your data, and you should have access to as much information as possible.

Professionals Behind the SoftwareWhile technology is ever evolving, the

importance of expert human involvement cannot be over-stated. Search for a lab with depth of knowledge and experience as well as important industry credentials.

Ability to Proactively Manage EquipmentLook for a system that allows you to proactively manage

equipment records, including location, name or identification, make, model and lubricant information.

User Administration ToolsNot every member of a team needs access to every piece of

information. The best software programs allow maximum flexi-bility, enabling mangers to self-administer and control customized permissions. Choose a system that lets adminis-trators add and delete users, establish and manage groups of users, and grant individualized access permissions. Other beneficial tools include customizable views and layouts, which put the most useful and important information right where you need it when you need it most.

Varied Data-Mining CapabilitiesOne of the most recent and helpful technological devel-

Online labeling offers the ability to print pre-registered sample labels for quick and proper processing.

www.machinerylubrication.com | November - December 2013 | 5

opments is customized graphing and result capability. Gone are the days of pouring over spreadsheets searching for tendencies and clues. Trend graphs utilize user-defined criteria to provide a visual representation of general wear, contamination and other common problems. Comparison graphing allows users to compare specific pieces of equip-ment against like machines or an entire population of equipment. Providing complicated information in an easy-to-understand format, these reports deliver useful information for maintenance and purchasing decisions.

6 Tips for Getting the Most From Your Oil Analysis Software

The return on your oil analysis program depends greatly on what you put into it. Industry research indicates that most maintenance programs achieve only 10 percent of the benefits available from oil analysis. User adoption of a more technolog-ical marketplace has been slow, and many fear information overload. However, by employing a few key strategies, you can maximize your oil analysis software for maximum results.

Conduct TrainingAt its most basic level, training can consist of the proper

technique for sampling. Even with just simple computer skills, users can learn to navigate software programs and take full advantage of their services and benefits.

“Training is critical to helping users understand what the programs can do to make their jobs easier and more effective,” Underwood says.

Many programs provide training via workshops, online

videos, webinars, onsite training, newslet-ters or downloadable PDFs. Encourage your team to utilize these educational modalities. As users become comfortable with the basics, they can add to their learning based on their role or the compa-ny’s needs. For example, lubrication technicians can learn more about sampling techniques and data input, while engineers can explore more technical graphing tools. If the software program offers ongoing customer service, don’t hesitate to contact the hotline for prod-uct-specific guidance.

Utilize Program Management ToolsCustomizable features make managing

an oil analysis program easier and more effective than ever. Beyond tracking and storing results, modern systems help users

record maintenance events such as sampling dates, usage hours and time in service. You can also create customized alarms to routinely collect samples on a prescribed basis. Whether your maintenance practices require collection every 500 hours or every quarter, these predictive samplings can prevent condi-tion-based situations that may signal imminent failure. Also, look for scalable programs that adjust to your individual needs.

Ensure information is CompleteThe adage “garbage in, garbage out” never rang more true

than when collecting a lubricant sample. “Technology cannot make up for a bad sample,” Under-

wood warns. Incomplete or illegible information can lead to data-entry

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Equipment management functions enable users to fully register critical information about each

piece of equipment.

Online labeling offers the ability to print pre-registered sample labels for quick and proper processing.

Oil AnAlysis

www.machinerylubrication.com | November - December 2013 | 7

errors and limited testing that yields suboptimal reporting. Once restricted to whatever information could be scribbled on a small label, the latest software programs allow maintenance technicians to input critical information, including equipment (make, model, identification number, location, etc.), hours of operation, maintenance activities, drain interval and more.

While incomplete information doesn’t affect the test results, it significantly impacts the analyst’s ability to draw conclusions or detect trends. Therefore, it is essential that users provide

repetitive, information-rich and credible samples to ensure quality and meaningful reports. When more data points are given during the sampling process, laboratory analysts can deliver more comprehensive reports. With consistent and complete sample information, labs can ensure normalization of results based on the organization’s result history.

Take Advantage of Data MiningA highly technical area of computer science, data mining

extracts information from a set of data and transforms it into understandable and actionable information. In oil analysis, this process uses data management and complex metrics to detect abnormalities in single samples or groups of samples.

While laboratory experts excel in extracting comprehensive information from a sample, end users may find it diffi-cult to put technical information into practical terms. The average manager typi-cally isn’t interested in particle counts or the presence of iron or metals in a single piece of equipment. However, the ability to recognize trends across a population of equipment can signal a bigger problem that could result in lost revenue from downtime or expensive repairs.

According to Underwood, data mining is particularly helpful when managing fleets.

“The ability to compare units and equivalent services helps companies deter-mine what the best product on the market is for their particular business,” he says.

It is important to note that data mining is not the end user’s responsi-bility but rather an important and integrated component of any effective software program.

Use Graphical ComparisonsGraphs and other visual representations

highlight the severity of non-conforming data far better than tables and spread-sheets. Keep in mind that if a report isn’t readable, it won’t get read.

“A picture is worth a thousand words,” Underwood says. “People understand a graphical data presenta-tion much more readily than a bunch of numbers, so it is a critical component to any software program.”

Comparison graphing offers a visual comparison of equipment performance against a population of data, allowing plant personnel to

determine which makes and models are best suited for each site.

Graphing sample conditions enables users to easily spot trends in specific units, equipment types, makes or models.

Users should be able to select different graphing styles (line, bar, area, spider, etc.) based on preference and need. Especially helpful in comparing a pre-defined set of parameters, graphs can use data normalization to identify wear rates and predict equipment failures. Beyond looking at a single piece of equip-ment or sample, graphs can provide a cross-comparison that allows users to compare units regardless of make, model or other specifications.

Graphs also present a visual picture of a single piece of equipment when compared to the entire population of machinery. While graphing tools should be easy to use, getting the most out of this new technology may require additional training.

Collaborate and CommunicateManaging a plant or fleet and its maintenance program is a

collaborative effort requiring a team of technicians, engineers, administrators and manufacturers. Communication between team members, especially in a critical situation, is vital. Today’s software programs allow administrators to authorize which users can view information, manage equipment and more. It’s even possible to share information with equipment and lubricant manufacturers, leveraging all available resources for maximum results. By establishing alerts, messaging, pref-erences and access for all essential team members, administrators can create a highly specialized network of shared information.

Maximizing Your Maintenance BudgetIn this extremely competitive era of reduced profit margins,

companies are forced to squeeze the most out of their main-tenance budgets. People, equipment and systems are expected to do more with fewer resources. Information tech-nology is necessary for any organization’s preventative maintenance program. With increased access to information, oil analysis software companies are helping maintenance managers spot trends, compare equipment and identify dangerous problems before they happen. Yet only 10 percent of users maximize their software programs. Ongoing training will help managers and administrators make the most of the ever-changing tools available.

Through the use of program management tools, proper sample registration, data-mining tools, graphical interpreta-tions and data sharing, organizations can ensure the longevity of their equipment and a more robust bottom line. Technology will continue to advance, providing additional tools to the analysts, manufacturers, service providers and end users. How effectively that technology is leveraged will determine the ulti-mate success of the company.

About the AuthorCary Forgeron is the national field service manager for Analysts Inc.

He has more than 10 years of experience in developing oil sampling programs for end users to meet their organization’s maintenance and reliability goals. Contact Cary at cforgeron@analystsinc.com.

About us

Since 1960, Analysts, Inc. has established a trusted reputation as a world class oil anal-ysis laboratory. As the pioneering force in oil analysis, Analysts is recognized worldwide as the leading provider of diagnostic evalua-tions and maintenance solutions. Today’s top corporations rely on Analysts for ASTM and other industry-accepted test methods and advanced instrumentation.

As an independent analytical testing organization, Analysts operates five regional laboratories in the U.S. and three abroad – in Tokyo, Japan, Monterrey, Mexico, and Zhen-jiang (Jiangsu) China. Our services cover an entire spectrum of industries, including production machinery, manufacturing equipment, power generation, marine, heavy construction, mining, trucking, transit and aircraft industries.

Our oil analysis programs help equipment managers understand the “what, when, where and why” of events happening inside any lubri-cated component. Armed with quality testing, expert data analysis and easy-to-follow mainte-nance recommendations, these managers can more effectively assess equipment condition and plan maintenance schedules to minimize breakdowns and maximize uptime.

3401 Jack Northrop Ave., Hawthorne, CA 90250 TEL 800.655.4473 • analystsinc.com

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