The role of oil analysis in the ESI

The author takes a broad overview of the chemistry of materials and analytical techniques used in the laboratory. Techniques employed by the analytical chemist have contributed to the knowledge and understanding. This has enabled sound engineering decisions on the management of electrical plant to be made, whilst at the same time assisting planning for replacement and design of new equipment. A short overview of some chemistry on oils and their properties is given followed by some common techniques employed in the laboratory for assessment of the plant and other dielectrics. A few notes are given on the possible areas for future analysis and how the environmental and consumer pressures may change the emphasis on analysis in the future