Red Seal Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Practice Exam

How should a fluid analysis on hydraulic oil be performed?

1. By evaporating the fluid

2. By collecting a sample, labeling it, and sending it to a laboratory for testing

3. By mixing it with water for testing

4. By filtering it through a strainer

The correct answer is: By collecting a sample, labeling it, and sending it to a laboratory for testing

Performing a fluid analysis on hydraulic oil involves a systematic approach to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the oil is accurately assessed. Collecting a sample, labeling it, and sending it to a laboratory for testing is the most reliable method for several reasons. Firstly, laboratories have specialized equipment and techniques to analyze hydraulic oil samples in detail. They can identify the presence of contaminants, wear particles, and chemical breakdown products that may not be detectable through simpler testing methods. This comprehensive analysis helps in determining the condition of the hydraulic system and predicting any maintenance needs or potential failures. Secondly, proper sampling techniques are essential to avoid contamination; handling samples incorrectly can lead to misleading results. By ensuring the sample is collected and labeled correctly, adheres to industry standards, and is sent to a qualified laboratory, the technician minimizes the risk of contamination and maximizes the reliability of the test results. In contrast, methods like evaporating the fluid, mixing it with water, or filtering it through a strainer do not provide the analytical depth needed for hydraulic oil assessment. These approaches may yield superficial insights but fail to deliver the extensive data required to make informed maintenance decisions or to evaluate oil condition accurately.