Taking grease samples

OELCHECK offers a specific "Grease sampling kit" containing the following equipment:

  • A syringe used to create a vacuum in a plastic tube. Thus, a grease sample can be sucked directly into the tube from the application area.
  • A transparent, flexible plastic hose (10 x 185 mm). The grease sample is sucked with the syringe into this hose, which is also included in each analysis kit for greases.
  • Three spatulas in different sizes. The grease can then be removed and filled directly into the sample bottle without using the hose.
  • A cleaning cloth (approx. 350 x 350 mm) to clean the sampling area or to remove impurities.

The perfect addition

Along with our grease sampling kit for taking grease samples, we recommend using our all-inclusive analysis kits for lubricating grease, which contain the following:

  • An all-inclusive 100 ml sample bottle. Required analysis methods can be determined from the colour of its lid.
  • A Sample Information Form with a detachable barcode for identifying the sample bottle.
  • A leakproof addressed plastic envelope with a window pocket for the Sample Information Form.

Order an all-inclusive analysis kit

Note: The best diagnostic results are achieved if the data from a new grease sample can be compared with the used grease.
Samples for trend analyses should always be taken from the same spot.

  • Clean the area around the sampling point with the cleaning cloth.
  • Place the tube on the syringe cone.
  • Use the syringe to draw in the lubricating grease into the plastic tube only.
  • Do not draw in too much air.
  • Remove the tube and bend it in the middle. Place it in the sample bottle with the bend facing up.
  • The syringe can be used multiple times as long as it is not contaminated.
  • Depending on the scope of the analysis, analysis can take place once there is approx. 1 g of grease available (2 cm of grease in the tube). Once the tube is completely filled (8-10 g), all the investigations in <link analysis>all-inclusive analysis kits 1, 2, 3 or 4 can take place.

If it is not possible to take a sample using the syringe, you can use one of the spatulas.

  • Clean the area around the sampling point with the cleaning cloth.
  • Mix the grease using the spatula or by gently agitating it in order to acquire the perfect reference sample.
  • Ensure, preferably by means of a visual check, that only grease which is intended for analysis is being sampled.
  • Spread the grease from the spatula onto the opening of the sample bottle.

 

Procedure with bearing removed
Draw the used grease out of the cage area and between the rolling elements into the tube or remove the grease in this area with a spatula.

Procedure with bearing attached
Remove the lubricating nipple or disconnect the oiler or the central oiler pipe. The tube supplied usually fits through the 10 mm thread hole. Draw the lubricating grease into the tube. Check visually, based on changes in colour and structure, that the tube mainly contains used grease.

Procedure for large roller bearings (diameter -> 1,000 mm)
Remove the grease from the sampling openings provided, which are usually closed during operation. The sampling points should, where possible, be on the raceways in the main load-carrying area. For the best possible results, take samples from several points and mix these together in the sample bottle.

  • Please use the specific Grease Sample Information Form.
  • Stick the barcode from the Sample Information Form to the sample bottle.
  • Complete the Sample Information Form or enter the sample details online at www.lab.report.
  • Tear off the sample reference from the Sample Information Form for your records.
  • Place the sample bottle in the plastic envelope and the Sample Information Form in the external window pocket.