Potassium in gear oil

Read our primer articles on Oil Analysis and Tribology

I have a question regarding potassium content in conveyor gearbox oil.

Occasionally I receive an oil analysis report that shows higher potassium (K) content in the oil. My first inclination is to look at the other elements and look for dirt ingression, as the mineral content at our mine site sometimes carries potassium.

However, I have also seen a reference to potassium contamination coming from human skin (technician contamination during sampling or analysis). This was awhile ago and I have been unable to find it again.

Has anyone here heard anything about this before, or know where I can find out more about it?

Thank you.

11/7/1011:49 AM

❤️ 0

Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

nurudinMember

Have you compare to the fresh oil?
As refference from ASTM D 6224, some of oil are containing potassium (K) as additive.
But It may rare

I agree, it may come from your mine environment.
Regards,

Nurudin

11/9/104:35 AM

❤️ 0

reltechMember

Nurudin,

Thanks for the reply. We have compared it to new oil, as well as the same oil in other components and determined that the potassium is not from the oil.

It is most likely from mineral contamination (especially when we see it coupled with silicon).

I was also wondering if anyone else has seen reference to potassium coming from physical contamination from the human body.

Thank you.

11/10/107:29 AM

❤️ 0

michelleMember

Has this system got a filter fitted or has the used oil been filtered? Some filters may contain Fuller's Earth which is basically bentonite which can be made of of potassium / silicon compounds. I am not a chemist but something for you to look into.
Also is it possible that there might be grease contamination? This could also show up as these elements.
Michelle.

11/19/105:15 AM

❤️ 0

hussamadeniMember

Many years ago typical Gear oil additive package consisted of LS (LeadSulphur). Use of Pb is now discontinued. Another popular anti wear package is ZDDP (ZincPhosphate compound). Currently most Gear additive packages have SP (SuphurPhosphorus) additive packages.

It is probable that the Phosphorus is from the gear additive. Yoiu may like to conduct analysis of fresh Gear oil vs used Gear oil for comparision or depletion.

6/2/119:06 PM

❤️ 0