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Physical characteristics such as appearance and odor can identify gross contamination in a fluid sample. But for optimum performance and longevity for your equipment fleet, you'll want to know what's going on with your fluids long before it's this obvious.

"Visual appearance of the fluid is a pretty good aid for identifying when something is excessive," says Shawn Ewing, technical coordinator, ConocoPhillips Lubricants. "But don't rely strictly on the physical condition of the fluid to identify problems."

Instead, sending the fluid to a reputable lab for analysis is an important tool for monitoring what's going on with the lubricants in your fleet. "If you can identify something that is slowly increasing, it gives you the ability to schedule service," says Tom Bell, manager of laboratory testing at Chevron. "Your ultimate goal should be preventive rather than reactive. Prevention gives you the ability to do repairs on your own timeframe. That way, you aren't in a hurry, nor are you tempted to cut corners on a repair to speed the process. Planning for maintenance, as opposed to being reactive to a breakdown, is a much more economical way to run a business."

In this article, experts will provide information to help you read and respond to fluid analysis reports.

"Don't be intimidated by the reports," encourages Jason Papacek, data analysis manager, POLARIS Laboratories. "There's a lot of guidance in them. And don't be afraid to work with the lab and your lubricants supplier to get the best information so you can make the best decisions."