Millipore^® Patch Test Kit: Field-Based Sampling and Contamination Analysis

Contamination in Industrial Systems

The contamination of fluids and fuels within industrial systems can cause additional wear and unnecessary damage to equipment, leading to system downtime and costly repairs. While there are several methods for contamination analysis, many require the use of laboratory equipment for processing. Using the Millipore^® Patch Test Kit allows for the rapid analysis of samples onsite, providing a quick insight into the state of your system.  

Field testing with the Millipore^® Patch Test Kit

The Millipore^® Patch Test Kit is a complete solution for the field-based collection and analysis of hydrocarbon-based hydraulic fluids, hydraulic oils, bulk chemicals, boiler water, and lubricating oils. This portable system allows for the dependable detection of contamination through sensitive, colorimetric analysis.

Millipore^® Patch Test Kit Components

Generic operating instructions are found in the kit. We recommend consulting your regulatory method for specific method details. Additionally, 5.0 µm mixed cellulose ester (MCE) membranes are included in this kit. Please check to ensure these filters are compatible with your method, samples, and solvent. Other membranes are available for purchase in our catalog.

How to use the Millipore^® Patch Test Kit

1. Prepare the wash bottle and filter for rinse solvent
   Unscrew the two sections of the 25 mL Swinnex filter holder, leaving the stainless-steel backpressure screen on the upper filter holder section. Use the forceps to center a 25 mm white filter disc on the perforated plastic support in the lower filter holder section. Reassemble the filter holder with the stainless-steel screen on top of the filter. Remove the plastic cap from the spout of the wash bottle and twist on the 25 mL Swinnex filter holder. Fill the wash bottle with the solvent recommended in your method and replace the wash bottle cap. Insert the spout cap to prevent spillage when storing the wash bottle.
   
   
2. Assemble the test filtration apparatus
   Insert the blunt end of the forceps into the cutout slot and pry against the flask rim to remove the filter holder assembly from the vacuum filtration flask. Remove and invert the holder assembly and install it on the flask, ensuring it’s resting evenly against the flask rim. Remove the red cap from the wash bottle. Cover the vent hole in the solvent dispenser cap and squeeze the bottle to wash down the inner funnel surfaces. Make sure to use enough solvent to wash all the contaminants into the flask.
   
   
3. Install the test filter and connect the syringe vacuum pump
   Remove the funnel from the test filter holder by turning the blue ring to the left until it’s free, and then lifting. Using forceps, center a 47 mm white test filter disc on the wire mesh support screen. Replace the funnel and re-tighten the blue ring to seal the filter in place. Remove the red protective cap from the syringe vacuum pump. Insert the nylon adapter on the black tube firmly into the small hole on the side of the filter holder base.
   
   
4. Collect test sample
   Rinse the inside of a sample collection bottle with filtered solvent from the wash bottle and discard used solvent. Fill the sample collection bottle to the shoulder point with the test fluid and cap securely.
   
   
5. Filter test sample
   Shake the sample bottle and empty the contents into the funnel by pouring against the funnel walls, distributing fluid evenly over the filter surface. Draw vacuum inside the flask by working the syringe plunger until the level of the fluid in the funnel begins to drop. Fill the sample bottle one-third full of filtered solvent, shake thoroughly, and pour the solvent into the funnel. If necessary, you may operate the syringe again, but do not allow the fluid level to drop to the filter surface before the final rinse step.
   
   
6. Rinse and remove filter
   Once the sample level drops to the narrow neck of the funnel, rinse the inner surface of the funnel with the wash bottle. Do not let the solvent stream directly strike the test filter. Once all the fluid has passed through the filter, remove the funnel and inspect the filter surface. If the central area of the filter is pink, replace the funnel and rinse the inner surface until the fluid reaches the top of the funnel’s neck. Work the syringe again to draw all the fluid through the filter. Remove the test filter with forceps and place it face-up in a PetriSlide device. Let the filter dry completely in still air before replacing the PetriSlide cover.
   
   
7. Analyze samples
   If your method requires colorimetric analysis, use the fluid color guide to determine the contaminant level. If your method requires gravimetric or microscopic analysis, label the PetriSlides and send them to your lab.