The determination of wear metals in engine oils and other lubricants can be applied to machines such as automobiles, aircraft, heavy equipment, trucks, locomotives, military vehicles, etc. The examples are endless. By tracking metals suspended in the used oil, engineers, designers and mechanics can determine the breakdown of specific engine parts. Specific elements present in used oils have been found to be directly related to specific engine problems. Engine failures, as well as expensive repairs, can be avoided if engine oils are analyzed, providing a periodic trend to predict maintenance or replacement.