Frequently Asked Questions

To help you navigate our site better and make your testing & analysis experience easier, we have provided answers to some frequently asked questions. You are always welcome to call our customer service if your question remains unanswered.


1. Why is Oil Analysis required?

It is required to understand the condition of the internal parts of the equipment so that preventive action to avoid a breakdown can be taken promptly if called for.

2. How should I take the sample?

The representative sample of the fluid should be extracted from the equipment using the special equipment and accessories supplied by Ultra Lab, which consist of the extraction pump, sample bottle and tubing. Please refer to our video for more details.

3. What will the oil analysis report tell me?

It will reveal the overall condition of the equipment and indicate the need for urgent repairs, replacement of parts or other maintenance.

4. Is it okay to test the samples just once or should I send the samples regularly?

Testing of oil is quite like the testing of human blood during a health check. Regular sampling and testing are required to understand the trend correctly.

5. How do I know which test parameters to check?

Experts in Ultra Lab will advise you about the various parameters to be tested.

6. The logistics company does not accept liquid samples. How do I ship my samples then?

Ultra-Labs have set up a nation-wide network for collection, transportation and delivery of samples of used oils, fuels and DEF. Please contact us at the numbers given below to avail of this service.

7. How important it is to test fuel?

Fuel is quite important to the operation of an engine and represents the highest element of its operating cost. It is important to ensure that the fuel is of the right quality and free of impurities to ensure smooth and trouble-free operation of the engine.

8. Can we detect the adulteration of fuel through testing?

The tests will reveal if there is any significant variation in the values of the various parameters and/or the presence of undesirable elements.

9. How much quantity of sample is required?

For a complete range of analysis, the quantity required is 500 ml.

10. Can I send the fuel samples in my own plastic container?

No, use of own containers should be avoided as much as possible to ensure that no contamination of the sample takes place. Please contact Ultra Lab for empty containers and sample extraction accessories.

11. I have heard of fuel quality changing. What is the main difference?

With the adoption of stringent BS VI emission norms for all automotive equipment from April 1, 2020, the fuel quality has also been further improved to reduce exhaust emissions. For diesel fuel, the major change is the reduction of Sulfur from 50 ppm to 10 ppm.

12. Why is it important to test engine coolant which is merely coloured water?

Firstly, engine coolant, far from being coloured water, is a careful balanced combination of Ethyl glycol, deionised water and a range of chemical additives intended to provide efficient cooling and maximum protection to the internal parts of the cooling system. Periodic testing of coolant samples is required to establish the condition of the coolant and its performance.

13. How frequently should I test coolant?

Every 1000 hours.

14. Can I top up different brands of coolant with the same colour?

No, it is not advisable to top up with other brands, irrespective of similar colour. Coolant top up should be done only with the same brand of ready to use coolant which is already present in the engine cooling system. Water should never be used to top up the cooling system.

15. How much quantity of coolant is required to test coolant?

200 ml.