5.1 This test method covers the rapid determination of 22 elements in used and unused lubricating oils and base oils, and it provides rapid screening of used oils for indications of wear. Test times approximate a few minutes per test specimen, and detectability for most elements is in the low mg/kg range. In addition, this test method covers a wide variety of metals in virgin and re-refined base oils. Twenty-two elements can be determined rapidly, with test times approximating several minutes per test specimen.
5.2 When the predominant source of additive elements in used lubricating oils is the additive package, significant differences between the concentrations of the additive elements and their respective specifications can indicate that the incorrect oil is being used. The concentrations of wear metals can be indicative of abnormal wear if there are baseline concentration data for comparison. A marked increase in boron, sodium, or potassium levels can be indicative of contamination as a result of coolant leakage in the equipment. This test method can be used to monitor equipment condition and define when corrective actions are needed.
5.2.1 The significance of metal analysis in used lubricating oils is tabulated in Table 4.
| Elements | Wear Indication |
| Argon | Wrist pin bearings in railroad and auto engines, silver plotted spline lubricating pump |
| Aluminum | Piston and bearings wear, push rods, air cooler, pump hosings, oil pumps, gear castings, box castings |
| Boron | Coolant leakage in system |
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