Info Centre >> Non Product Specific FAQ
Q: Any Technical Question on fuels or lube oils?
A: The Fuel and Lube Oil Technical Manual gives a comprehensive and detailed overwiew of all issues relating to fuel and lubricating testing. It is also available as a free CD . Alternatively, our staff are always happy to answer any technical queries you may have. Simply telephone:
+ 44 (0) 1903 741470
Q: Can I ask for special products or branded goods?
A: Kittiwake can provide a fully bespoke design service. This includes full branding for all your products including labels, packaging, manuals or training CDs.
Q: I need standard test methods ASTM, IP, ISO etc
A: Working to strict quality assurance ISO 9001:2000 standards, all of our equipment is fully tested and correlated before being sent out to customers. All of our high-end equipment and much of the lower cost options use standard laboratory methods for correlation. Independent proof of these correlations is available from Kittiwake. Simply telephone:
+ 44 (0) 1903 731470 for further details.
Q: Can I have just one or two options for specific tests?
A: Bespoke kits can be created to match any of your requirements. Choose from a wide range of different options already available, or have our R & D team put together an option that is exactly tailored to your needs. A huge variety of different test parameters and case options are available.
Q: I want a single source supplier but you only have 70% of what I need?
A: Where appropriate, Kittiwake will be as flexible as possible. We have built our reputation upon the creation of good relationships with both our customers and suppliers. If at all possible, we will do everything in our power to centralise your production.
Q: What is your policy if equipment breaks?
A: Send it back and we will be pleased to look at it. Most of our equipment holds a manufacturer guarantee and if the fault is down to manufacturing we will fix it. If its been broken through abuse you get a bill and we will fix it or supply a replacement.
Q: What about calibration?
A: Functional checks can be performed on most equipment in the field. Some (notably the electronic test equipment) should be returned to Kittiwake or our agent every 2 years or so for recalibration and overhaul. We would be pleased to discuss a number of options to maintain equipment from on demand to a complete overhaul and calibration contract, stock replacements, updates to the latest specifications, whatever suits your specific needs and budgets. Be assured also that all equipment carries the same comprehensive guarantee irrespective of which service option you select.
Q: I run a busy laboratory and want to outsource all my logistics requirements, do you sell more than just sample bottles?
A: We supply everything you'll need to run a world class oil or fuel analysis service. Discounted courier deliveries, drop points in numerous countries, courier return services, sampling equipment and systems, sampling advice, stocking storage and award winning web-based e-commerce reporting systems.
Q: Why are delivery costs high for some chemical reagents?
A: Some of our reagents are classified under IATA (air), IMDG (sea) or IRD (road) transportation codes. All relevant packaging is pre qualified for this purpose and we do not charge extra for this. The freight costs are subject to standard dangerous goods charges where we have no option under the law but to declare the goods and pay this charge. Be assured that we take every care to minimise this by for example stocking at key points around the world (Unitor AS stock our goods in dozens of ports) or delivering to airport uncleared only.
Q: Where can I get training on how to use the equipment?
A: This is available in a number of ways. The Training CD contains video footage of the equipment in use, our agents in various countries are trained on specific equipment ranges, regular training courses are run at Kittiwake and customers premises. If you have our equipment and need instruction, we will make it happen somehow.
Q: My staff do not speak English but need to understand the equipment instructions?
A: Many of our instruction manuals are available in a range of different languages. If you have a special requirement in this respect, please let us know and we will try to help.