What is the primary purpose of oil analysis?

The primary purpose of oil analysis encompasses both monitoring fluid properties and determining machine condition, making it essential for proactive maintenance and reliability in machinery. Analyzing the oil allows technicians to gather vital information such as viscosity, thermal stability, and contamination levels, which are critical for understanding the condition of the lubricant itself. Furthermore, by examining wear particles and chemical composition, oil analysis provides insights into the condition of the machinery components. This dual capability of assessing both the lubricant and the equipment helps in identifying potential failures before they lead to costly downtimes and repairs, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency and longevity of machinery. Therefore, the chosen answer reflects the comprehensive value of oil analysis in a maintenance strategy.