How lab automation improves oil testing productivity

If you’re responsible for keeping the oil test lab running smoothly, you know how quickly the pressure builds. 

Test volumes are up. Resources are tight. And the demand for fast, accurate results never lets up. 

But manually driven processes can only go so far — and that’s where automation makes a real difference.

The OTS AF from Megger is built for high-throughput labs like yours. It’s not just a test set — it’s a time-saver, error-reducer, and productivity booster all in one.

What labs are up against

Oil testing labs are dealing with more complexity than ever.

There’s more equipment in service, more frequent testing intervals, and stricter reporting requirements. However, the lab team often hasn’t grown to match the workload. 

That means the same number of people are expected to do more — faster.

Here’s what we hear from lab managers:

• Test volumes keep rising, but staffing stays flat.
• Manual test setup leads to delays and occasional errors.
• Too many retests — sometimes because of inconsistent vessel prep or human error.
• Data entry is still done by hand or copied from printed test reports.
• Compliance checks are taking longer than they should.

When you add it all up, the result is slower turnaround, more frustration, and less confidence in the data. 

That’s where automation becomes more than a convenience — it becomes essential.

How the OTS AF helps labs work smarter

The OTS AF is designed to reduce manual steps, speed up your workflow, and help you get more done with the same team. 

Here’s how it delivers real productivity gains:

Auto-compliant testing

The OTS AF comes with pre-loaded standard sequences for IEC 60156 and ASTM D1816/D877 . No manual programming, no guesswork — just select the standard and start testing.

Minimal interaction once running

After loading the oil sample and selecting the test, the OTS AF runs the full sequence automatically, including stirring and multiple breakdown tests. That frees your team to focus on other tasks. In most labs, this can double the number of samples processed per shift — from 6–10 up to 12–20+, depending on workflow and operator availability.

Fast data handling

Results can be saved directly to USB and barcodes can be scanned in to identify samples — no more handwritten labels or manual data entry.

Prompted workflows

The system includes cleaning prompts and reminders, reducing the risk of inconsistent prep that can lead to failed tests or retesting.

Smart design for repeatability

Electrode spacing tools, enclosed test chambers, and easy-clean vessels help ensure results are consistent from one test to the next.

What automation looks like — before and after

Here’s a typical scenario we’ve seen in labs before and after switching to the OTS AF:

Before:

The technician manually selects test parameters, checks electrode spacing with a tool, runs the breakdown test, records results by hand, and then spends time cleaning and drying the vessel — all before starting again. 

Any inconsistency means repeating the test or investigating the result.

After:

With the OTS AF, they scan the sample barcode, load the oil, select the standard, and start the test. 

The system handles the sequence and saves the results. The operator gets a prompt when cleaning is due — and there’s confidence that everything is aligned and compliant. 

The same lab tech now processes more samples in the same shift — with fewer retests.

Manual oil testing vs OTS AF: workflow comparison

See it in action
 

Lab automation doesn’t have to be complex — but it starts with the right tools. The OTS AF is designed to slot into your workflow and take care of the tasks that slow your team down.

Want to see what it looks like in your lab? Request a demo or check out the full specs to see how the OTS AF fits into your productivity plan.

Productivity isn’t just about speed — it’s about consistency. 

The faster your team can move with fewer retests and cleaner data, the easier it is to stay compliant, support engineering teams, and justify investment in your lab.