Reclamation of used lubricating oils

Abstract

An experimental analysis was carried out by treatment of used hydraulic oil with various concentrations of fullers' earth and the results obtained were compared with fresh oil. Properties tested for include viscosity, specific gravity, absorbance and wear metals. The results obtained showed an improvement in the depleted quality of oil; in particular the viscosity falls within ± 15% tolerance of the fresh oil value as recommended by ASTM standards. It is recommended that the reclaimed oil obtained should be re-blended with additive or fresh oil in a pre-determined ratio using ASTM blending chart for further enhancement of additive content. It is concluded that reclamation of used oil is an environmentally friendly way of dispersing waste oils which can serve as a waste to wealth method.