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Total Base Number (TBN)


TBN Testing is particularly important for engine oil, as it is continuously exposed to acidic combustion products and these must be neutralised before they can corrode engine parts.

The TBN of oil is the measure of the alkaline reserve, or the ability of the oil to neutralise acids from combustion. Severe depletion of the TBN results in acid corrosion and fouling within the engine.

Maintaining a correct alkaline reserve is critical in preventing unnecessary corrosion of the upper piston, piston rings and top end bearing. Additionally, low TBN is indicative of reduced oil detergency.

Low TBN will cause:

Corrosion of combustion space and bearings


Fouling within the engine



Total Base Number (TBN) Electronic Cell (FG-K25197-KW)

The TBN Cell works in conjunction with a highly accurate electronic console, which is available with optional software that allows the data to be downloaded from the console to a PC in comma delimited text format. This means that the data stream is separated by commas and is in a standard ASCII format that is readable by standard spreadsheet and data base applications, such as Microsoft Excel and Access.

The Electronic TBN test is available as a stand-alone kit, or as part of a comprehensive suite of electronic equipment including cells to test for Water, TAN and Insolubles, which are included in the Oil Test Centre and Power Plant Laboratory.


Easy and quick to use.
Extremely robust - designed for use in harsh environments.
Very easy to clean and store.
Complements the Kittiwake range of sampling equipment.

NATO Stock No: 6630-99-702-4865

Range: 5-99 TBN

Test Time: 2.5 mins

Accuracy: Typically within +/-5%

Power: 110 to 250 VAC

Correlation: IP400

Application: Diesel, Crankcase Lubes

Click here to view the Kittiwake TBN Electronic Test Cell in action (file size 11mb)

DIGI Total Base Number (TBN) Kit (FG-K1-004-KW)

The DIGI TBN Test provides state-of-the-art, digital analysis and gives fast, accurate results for in-depth analysis and monitoring of trends. The DIGI TBN Cell can be purchased as a stand-alone kit, or is included in a number of DIGI kits along with other relevant test equipment for different applications. It is also included as part of the Oil Test Cabinet.


Graphic Display and 5-Year Battery!
Built in memory for recording previous test results.

Range: 5-80 TBN
Diesel engine lube oils (use TAN for Gas Engines)

Test Time: 2 mins

Memory: previous test & 5 oils

No of Tests: 50

Replacement Reagents: FG-K2-002-KW

Click here to view the Kittiwake DIGI TBN Test Cell in action (File size 27mb)

ECON TBN Test (FG-K13959-KW)

The TBN Test Kit gives a quick and accurate indication of TBN depletion in crankcase lubricants.

Range: 5 - 55 TBN
Diesel engine lube oils (use TAN for Gas Engines)

Test Time: 2 mins

No of Tests: 50

Replacement Reagents: FG-K2-002-KW

Click here to view Instruction Manual


Want to know more?
Contact Kittiwake here


Download PDF of TBN Testing  Yellow Arrow


To view the document you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your system. If you do not have it click here to proceed to Adobe's website to download it.