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Rapid & Accurate Monitoring of Insolubles
Insolubles are solid Contamination particles often left in oil a result of the build up of combustion related debris and oxidation products. Insolubles constituents include carbon from incomplete combustion of fuel and, to a lesser extent, lubricants, organic polymers from oxidisation of the lube oil and fuel. They also contain sulphates from combustion of fuel sulphur and reaction with TBN additives and wear metals. Metallic fuel ash and airborne grit such as dust, dirt and silica can also be present, as well as asphaltenes (mainly from engines using residual fuel oil).

High insolubles will cause lacquer formation on hot surfaces, sticking of piston rings and wear of cylinder liner and bearing surfaces. In addition to the wear, the detergent property of the oil will decrease, becoming a catalyst for further deterioration. A build up of insolubles will generally increase the oils viscosity and create other problems such as foaming.

Increased oil viscosity will cause:

• Wear of bearings and running surfaces
• Blockage of oil ways and filters
• Fouling around the piston pack and piston top land

The Kittiwake DIGI Insolubles meter will give the user an accurate quantitative result in under two minutes and has a range of 0-2.5%.

Onsite Oil Condition Monitoring helps

• Minimize downtime
• Maximize efficiency
• Spot early signs of wear & damage
• Extend oil change intervals
• Reduce waste oil costs
• Add to your bottom line

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