Base Number Testing by Eurofins TestOil

Base Number (BN) testing is very similar to AN testing, except that the properties are reversed.  The sample is titrated with an acidic solution to measure the oil’s alkaline reserve.  ASTM test methods D-2896 or D-4739 are most commonly used to measure BN.  Measuring the BN can help ensure that the oil is able to protect the component from corrosion due to acid.

Many oils (especially motor oils) are fortified with alkaline additives to neutralize acids that are formed as a result of oil oxidation.  In diesel engine applications, acid is formed in the combustion chamber when moisture combines with sulfur under pressure.

The BN of an oil is highest when the oil is new and decreases with use.  Once again, condemning limits (limit where the oil is condemned for use and should be replaced) are based on the application.  As a rule, the BN should not drop below 25 percent of its original value. BN values for new engine oils run from 4 to 30 depending on the application.

For more information on working with Eurofins TestOil for oil analysis programs or training opportunities, fill out the form below; visit https://testoil.com/company/contact-us/; call 216-251-2510; or email sales@testoil.com.

 About Eurofins TestOil

With more than 30 years of experience in the oil analysis industry, Eurofins TestOil focuses exclusively on assisting industrial facilities with reducing maintenance costs and avoiding unexpected downtime through oil and fuel analysis program implementation. As industry experts in diagnosing oil-related issues in equipment such as turbines, hydraulics, gearboxes, pumps, compressors and diesel generators, Eurofins TestOil provides customers with same-day turnaround on routine oil analysis testing.  For more information on partnering with Eurofins TestOil on oil analysis programs or training opportunities visit https://testoil.com. Contact: Al Yates 216-251-2510; sales@testoil.com. 

 About Eurofins – the global leader in bio-analysis

Eurofins is Testing for Life. Eurofins is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing, and in discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience Contract Research services. Eurofins is also a market leader in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, and in the support of clinical studies, as well as in BioPharma Contract Development and Manufacturing. The Group also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialised and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.

With over 61,000 staff across a network of 940 laboratories in 59 countries, Eurofins’ companies offer a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods. Eurofins Shares are listed on Euronext Paris Stock Exchange.