Contamination testing is split into a number of different individual tests. We will perform:

​Water K.Fischer - The Karl Fischer Test measures the exact amount of free and dissolved water molecules contained in the grease sample. The Karl Fischer test is reported in a numerical value.

Boron Testing - Used as a corrosion inhibiter, anti-wear and anti-oxidant additive. Concentration levels vary greatly depending on grease brand. Also Boron is used in extreme pressure compounds and dispersants. It can also appear as a contaminant as it can be used in the manufacture of coolant conditioners. Boron can come from a few areas: water, coolant, worn seals or airborne dust.

Silicon Testing - Silicon is usually seen as an indication of dirt entry, however it can have many different sources. Silicon is part of a chemical added to oils to stop them foaming so silicon can be an additive. It is usually found in a concentration of 3 to 10ppm, so do not be surprised to see silicon in new engine oil samples. Do not panic, this is not due to dirt. Silicon is found in chemicals used in coolant conditioners so it can show up as a contaminant if there is an internal coolant leak, along with sodium.

Sodium Testing - The most common chemicals contain sodium so this is the first indication of an internal coolant leak. Other chemicals found in coolant conditioners contain elements such as molybdenum, phosphorus, chromium, boron and silicon. Elements that make up the physical structure of the cooling system and can leach into the oil (from either the water or the oil side of the cooler) including cooper, tin, lead and silver. Sodium can also be found as an additive in some engine oils (often replacing calcium or magnesium) but this is a lot rarer than it used to be. Some greases contain sodium as part of the soap and sodium will be evident if the oil is contaminated with sea water.