Does a DIY rapid oil test from the internet really work?
Year of publication: 2026
Various manufacturers offer quick tests for lubricating oils on the internet. They claim that a single drop is sufficient for an oil diagnosis. The test result shows whether the oil is still fit for further use or needs to be changed. They also claim that any damage can be detected at an early stage. But is there anything to these promises?
Electric car coolants – Setting new standards for battery system safety
Year of publication: 2026
BYD is based in China and is the world’s largest manufacturer of electric cars and plug-in hybrids. Its goal is to produce all electric cars sold in Europe locally within three years and thus avoid potential EU tariffs. Plants in Hungary and Turkey are already under construction. Spain is being discussed as a location for a third plant*. Vehicles from the Chinese brands GAC and XPeng are already rolling off the production line at the contract manufacturer MAGNA Steyr in Graz, Austria. Local suppliers are also involved in car production in Europe.
However, almost all products from European suppliers must comply with the GB standard (Guobiao) of the Standardisation Administration of the People’s Republic of China. This also applies to operating equipment. From 1 October 2025, all coolants for use in lithium-ion batteries for electric cars from BYD and other manufacturers must comply with the new standard GB 29743.2-2025. Above all, this requires an extremely low electrical conductivity of less than 100 μS/cm (microsiemens) as well as a permissible increase to 300 μS/cm over the course of use. The stricter standard is intended to significantly reduce the risk of short circuits and thermal runaway.
Lubricating greases – What is the advantage of determining wear and additive elements using the ICP-OES method?
Year of publication: 2025
Our conveyors operate in dusty and often moist environments. They are also subjected to shocks and vibrations. We have the bearing greases examined regularly by you. In addition to any impurities, we are also particularly interested in the wear and additive elements.
In the 2023 summer edition of OELCHECKER, you informed us that you are using a new method for determining these elements. In the laboratory reports, the wear and additive elements are still shown in mg/kg. What advantage does the new method offer us?
