Koehler K44190 Automatic Noack Evaporative Loss Tester

Overview

The Koehler K44190 Automatic Noack Evaporative Loss Tester is a fully integrated, microprocessor-controlled laboratory instrument engineered for precise determination of evaporative loss in lubricating oils and base stocks under standardized thermal and vacuum conditions. Based on the Noack volatility test principle—where a weighed oil sample is heated at a defined temperature (typically 225–275 °C) under controlled airflow and reduced pressure—the instrument quantifies mass loss as a percentage of the original sample weight. This measurement directly correlates with an oil’s tendency to volatilize during high-temperature operation, a critical performance indicator for engine oils, gear oils, and industrial lubricants. The K44190 implements the full scope of ASTM D5800, supporting all three official test methods (A, B, and C), as well as DIN 51581, ensuring global method equivalence and regulatory acceptability in OEM specifications and quality assurance protocols.

Key Features

• Fully automated test execution with real-time temperature profiling, vacuum regulation, and timed airflow control—eliminating manual intervention and operator-induced variability.
• High-stability PT100 platinum resistance thermometer mounted in direct contact with the sample cup, delivering traceable temperature accuracy of ±0.2 °C and 0.01 °C display resolution across the full 0–320 °C range.
• Integrated vacuum system featuring an electronically regulated diaphragm pump, fluorocarbon-elastomer (FKM) high-integrity valves, and a sintered stainless-steel particulate filter—minimizing carryover and ensuring long-term reliability in demanding lab environments.
• Dedicated 6.5-inch industrial-grade touchscreen PC embedded within the instrument housing, running deterministic firmware optimized for ASTM D5800 sequence logic and data integrity.
• Onboard non-volatile memory capable of storing over 60,000 complete test records—including raw weight data, temperature logs, vacuum profiles, and operator metadata—with timestamping and user ID tagging.
• USB host interface compliant with standard HID and CDC protocols, enabling seamless connection to thermal printers, external storage devices, or LIMS-compatible PCs without proprietary drivers.
• CE-marked design conforming to IEC 61010-1 safety standards for electrical equipment used in laboratory environments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The K44190 accommodates standard ASTM D5800 sample cups (10 g nominal volume) and supports viscous lubricants ranging from SAE 0W-20 engine oils to high-viscosity industrial gear oils (up to ISO VG 680). Its thermal architecture ensures uniform heating and minimal thermal gradient across the sample zone, satisfying the spatial uniformity requirement of ASTM D5800 Section 7.2. Instrument qualification includes documented verification of temperature stability (±0.1 °C over 60 min), airflow calibration traceable to NIST-certified rotameters, and vacuum setpoint repeatability (±0.5 kPa). All operational parameters are preconfigured per method-specific requirements in ASTM D5800 and DIN 51581, enabling immediate compliance without user calibration adjustments.

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition and reporting adhere to principles of ALCOA+ (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) for regulated environments. Each test record contains immutable timestamps, operator login credentials, environmental ambient readings (if logged), and digital signatures where enabled. Export formats include CSV and PDF reports compliant with internal QA documentation workflows. While the embedded system does not require external software for routine operation, optional Koehler DataLink™ software (sold separately) provides centralized instrument fleet monitoring, audit trail generation, and 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signature support—suitable for GLP and GMP laboratories subject to FDA or EMA inspection.

Applications

• Quality control of finished engine oils against OEM specifications (e.g., API SP, ACEA C5, GM dexos2®) where Noack volatility limits are enforced.
• Base oil selection and formulation development, evaluating trade-offs between volatility, oxidation stability, and NOACK-driven oil consumption.
• Batch release testing for industrial lubricants used in high-temperature bearing applications, compressors, and turbine systems.
• Regulatory submission support for EPA SNAP program evaluations and REACH registration dossiers requiring standardized volatility data.
• Research into additive package interactions—particularly volatility-modifying agents such as polyalkylmethacrylates (PAMAs) and alkylated naphthalenes.

FAQ

Does the K44190 comply with the latest revision of ASTM D5800?
Yes—the instrument firmware and hardware configuration meet all requirements of ASTM D5800–23, including Method C (low-airflow variant) and updated apparatus geometry specifications.
Can the instrument be validated for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance?
The base unit supports audit-trail-enabled operation; full Part 11 compliance requires installation of Koehler DataLink™ with role-based access control and electronic signature modules.
What maintenance is required for the integrated vacuum pump?
The diaphragm pump is oil-free and sealed for life; only periodic inspection of the FKM valve integrity and filter cleaning every 200 tests is recommended.
Is external cooling water required?
No—the K44190 uses passive air cooling with thermally optimized heat sinks and does not require chilled water or compressed air connections.
How is temperature uniformity verified across the heating block?
Koehler provides a factory-issued Temperature Uniformity Verification Report (TUV) using calibrated multi-point RTD probes, traceable to NIST SRM 1750a.