You send out an oil sample and receive no feedback, what intervals should you go to for sending out lube oil samples?

Sending out lube oil samples at intervals of 3-5 months is considered a best practice in marine engineering for several important reasons. During this period, oil can accumulate contaminants, show signs of degradation, or lose its effectiveness due to factors such as temperature fluctuations, operational conditions, and the presence of wear metals from machinery. Regular sampling within this timeframe allows for timely identification of issues that could affect equipment performance and longevity.

If the interval was too short, like 1-2 months, it might lead to unnecessary costs and logistics without providing significant additional information. Conversely, intervals that are too long, such as 6-8 months or yearly, may delay critical maintenance decisions that could ultimately lead to equipment failure, unplanned downtime, and expensive repairs. Thus, the 3-5 month interval represents a balanced approach, ensuring sufficient monitoring without overwhelming resources.