Most labs provide convenient pre-addressed mailing cartons, making it easy to mail the sample the same day that it is taken. Making sure that the sample is labeled properly is an important third step. To provide a basis for comparison, a sample of new oil or a sample taken just after an oil change should be sent for analysis. If the same oil is being used in several pieces of equipment, only one new oil sample is needed for a base-line. Most important, be sure that your company name, address and telephone number are included with each sample.
Most labs get hundreds of samples each day and after a shile they begin to look very similar.
You should include the name of someone who is to be called if there are indications of serious equipment problems, or if the oil needs to be changed. There is no question that independent oil analysis has helped thousands of commercial and industrial operators monitor equipment condition and extend oil drain intervals. If you use an oil analysis program, be sure that your samples are representative timely, and well documented. Only then can you e sure that you are getting the most value for your investment.