Air release time
| OELCHECK test instrument: | Normalab Analis P 688 |
| Sample quantity: | 200 ml |
| Unit: | min (minutes) |
| Test result: | air release time (LAV) |
| Result range: | 0 - 59 min |
| Analysis for: | turbine and hydraulic oils |
| Brief description: | The air release time is defined as the time in minutes after the air dispersed in oil has been removed again until 0.2% vol. remains. Air at a set pressure level is blown into the oil being tested through a fixed nozzle over a set period of time. Using the density, the dispersed air bubbles' escape from the oil is then tracked over time and recorded on a graph until the volume becomes constant. The air release time is extrapolated from this graph. The method can be performed at four different temperatures (25°C, 50°C, 75°C, 80°C). |
| Statement: | During use, impurities, mixing or acids can change the air release time. Too much air in the oil damages the structure of a stable lubricating film in slide bearings in turbines, for example. Air bubbles dispersed in the oil can impede the function of hydraulic systems and cause cavitation. A high proportion of air bubbles in the oil can cause a "diesel effect" to occur. The air release time in comparison to fresh oil allows conclusions to be drawn regarding further use of lubricating or hydraulic oil in critical operating conditions or breakdowns. |
| Underlying test standard: | DIN ISO 9120, ASTM D3427 |
