Under normal operating conditions, the water content in lubricating oil should be below 0.03%. When the water content exceeds 0.1%, the additives in the oil—such as antioxidants and detergents/dispersants—lose their effectiveness, thereby accelerating oil oxidation. The organic acids formed during oxidation, together with acidic oxides in the engine exhaust, then react with water to produce inorganic acids. These acidic substances can cause corrosion of engine components. Consequently, when the oil contains excessive water, its lubricating performance deteriorates, its viscosity decreases, and, at a minimum, this leads to premature oil degradation and component rusting; at worst, it can result in severe mechanical failures such as crankshaft seizure or bearing failure.

During routine operation, it is essential to determine as accurately as possible whether the engine oil contains excessive water, in order to prevent damage to the engine caused by such excess moisture. In everyday use, this can be assessed using the following three methods.

1 Combustion method

Heat a copper mesh until it is red-hot, then immerse it in the engine oil to be tested; if a “crackling” sound is heard, this indicates that the oil contains a significant amount of water. Alternatively, the oil sample can be poured into a test tube and heated: when the temperature approaches 80–100°C, a “crackling” sound will occur, further confirming the presence of substantial water in the oil.

2 Color-observing method

Engine oil that meets cleanliness standards is semi-transparent. The addition of water reduces its transparency. After the engine has been running for a period of time, the oil turns milky white and develops foam.

3 Water-release method

After the engine is shut down, allow it to stand for about 30 minutes. Then loosen the drain plug; if water drains out, this indicates that the engine oil contains a significant amount of water.

You can use the simple testing method described above to determine whether the lubricant you’ve purchased contains water, ensuring the safe operation of your vehicle.

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