9 Ways to Tell High- vs Low-Quality Industrial Oil Additives

industrial oil additives

industrial oil additives

Industrial oil additives are important in keeping machinery at its peak. They reduce wear and tear, enhance performance, and increase the machinery’s life span. However, not all oil additives are the same. Some bad additives may damage equipment, add cost, and cause problems. Differentiating poor-quality additives from the best is important to avoid a bad investment. This blog will discuss some easy steps to help you differentiate between bad and good-quality additives.

1. Check the Packaging

The first warning sign that a bad-quality additive can present is its packaging. Good brands come in sturdy, professional-looking containers. Labels are clear, not misspelled, and correct in good products. Tamper-proof seals point toward reliability, too. Cheap-looking, torn, or sloppily made packaging can represent low-quality contents inside the container. In short, good-quality additives are packaged with the best care taken.

2. Look for Certifications

Additives bearing the certifications ensure that they meet certain quality standards. Credible companies know that credible agencies will certify and test their products. ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and API (American Petroleum Institute) are common certifications in the oil industry. Be wary if the additive claims that it meets some standards but cannot show some proof. For this reason, select products showing verified labels for safety and efficiency.

3. The Properties and Appearance

The appearance and properties of the additive will tell more about its good quality. Good additives will be transparent and without dirt or impurities in the shape of the clumps. Observe the additive thoroughly by pouring it into a transparent container. If impurities or chunks of dirt are present, you will know the quality of the additive is below par. If the additives are good and smooth and do not contain any particles, it’s a good sign. Additives without impurities tend to perform better. On the other hand, bad additives do more harm than good.

4. Smell for Bad Odors

You would be surprised to know that you can tell the quality of the additive simply by smelling it. Since many additives are derived from petroleum products, they have the same odour. Their chemical-like smell is often the staple of their quality. While the bad additives will have a pungent or bad smell. A burnt or rotten smell could indicate poor quality or contamination. Because of uniform manufacturing processes, good products should have a consistent, predictable smell. When an additive’s smell seems questionable, it is better to avoid it.

5. Check Machinery Performance

The performance of your equipment after using an additive can be an indication of its quality. A good-quality additive will increase efficiency, reduce noise, and reduce the risk of overheating. But, poor-quality additives may produce weird noises, create leakage, or even increase wear and tear. It is better to change or discard the additive if your equipment starts showing problems after using it. This step is risky as it can damage your machinery and can result in accidents, so make sure to keep an eye on performance.

6. Research the Brand

Another factor in the decision-making should be the brand reputation behind the additive. Established brand names that have been around and are trusted may have positive feedback and a good track record in the industry. Read online reviews or ask other professionals about their experience with the brand. Do not take that risk if the brand has scant information or poor feedback. Working with trusted brands ensures you get the highest quality products and customer service whenever needed.

7. Pricing

Price is a major point to consider while selecting an additive. Most additives are expensive because of their high manufacturing costs. Additives with low prices are a red flag; they either contain bad-quality ingredients or are not properly tested. If you find an additive at an absurdly low price, it may not have been manufactured properly. There is a high chance of it containing low-grade materials. Spending more on a good-quality additive will likely save one from the hassle and cost of repairing the machinery after some time.

8. Test in Small Quantities

Add the additive in small quantities to safely test the quality of the additive before using large-scale applications. Most industrial oil additive suppliers can supply sample quantities or quantities smaller than their standard production for trial purposes. Add the additive to one piece of equipment or one that is less critical and observe effects. If this additive works as expected, adding it to other pieces of equipment is safe. Do not buy in high volumes if problems arise or fail to show the expected improvements.

9. Check Shelf Life and Expiration Dates

The first thing you should do while purchasing or applying an additive is check its expiration and production date. Knowing the shelf life of an additive helps you realize its quality. If the product is way past the expiration date or was produced a while ago, it’s low-quality. Reputable products print their manufacture and expiration date on their labels. Using additives that are expired or near their expiration can damage your equipment. The additive industry is evolving, and innovations come out every year. So, you should use the latest additives on the market for better performance and fewer problems.

Ask for Help from Experts or Technicians

If you are unsure about the quality of additives even after following the above steps, it’s better to consult a professional. Professionals have the expertise and experience to guide you in choosing a good additive. They will show you good brands, prevent you from using bad products, and lead you to the right additive for your needs.

Importance of Identifying Low-Grade Additives

Identifying low-grade industrial oil additives helps maintain your machinery and ensures effective operations. Avoid some by being meticulous about packaging, examining certification, appearance, and texture, and following through with the odour smell. Research the brand, be cautious about extremely low prices, and test in minute quantities with expert opinions. Follow these steps to safeguard your machines, save money, and ensure long-lasting efficiency. Make the right choice regarding oil additives; your machinery will thank you.

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