ASTM D5185 Standard Test Method for Multielement Determination of Used and Unused Lubricating Oils and Base Oils by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES)

ASTM D5185 is a standard test method that covers the determination of additive elements, wear metals, and contaminants in used and unused lubricating oils and base oils by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). This method allows for the rapid screening of oils for indications of wear, contamination, and the efficiency of the refining process. The test can determine the concentrations of 22 elements, including aluminum, boron, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, sodium, tin, titanium, vanadium, and zinc.

The relevance of the parameters measured by this method is reflected in their ability to provide critical information about the condition and performance of lubricating oils. Additive elements such as zinc, phosphorus, and calcium are essential for the proper functioning of oils, as they enhance properties like anti-wear, corrosion inhibition, and detergency. Monitoring the concentrations of these elements ensures that the oil is performing as expected and that the correct oil is being used.

Wear metals, including iron, copper, and lead, are indicative of the mechanical wear occurring within the equipment. Elevated levels of these metals can signal abnormal wear and potential equipment failure. By regularly analyzing the oil for wear metals, maintenance schedules can be optimized, preventing costly unscheduled repairs and downtime.

Contaminants such as sodium, potassium, and silicon can indicate external contamination, such as coolant leaks or dirt ingress. Identifying these contaminants early allows for corrective actions to be taken before significant damage occurs.

ASTM D5185 provides a comprehensive and rapid analysis of lubricating oils, enabling proactive maintenance and supporting the longevity and efficiency of machinery. The use of ICP-AES in this method is particularly advantageous due to its high sensitivity, precision, and ability to handle complex oil matrices. This technique allows for the direct analysis of oil samples with minimal preparation, making it a practical and efficient choice for routine oil monitoring.

In summary, ASTM D5185 is a crucial standard for the analysis of lubricating oils, providing valuable insights into the condition of oils and the equipment they protect. By measuring additive elements, wear metals, and contaminants, this method helps maintain optimal performance and prevent costly failures.

With the PlasmaQuant 9100 series Analytik Jena offers a powerful, reliable and compliant solution for ICP-OES analyses to fulfill the requirements of the ASTM D5185.

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Sources

• Norm ASTM D5185 - Standard Test Method for Multielement Determination of Used and Unused Lubricating Oils and Base Oils by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES)