GENERAL
1-1. Purpose. This technical bulletin identifies equipment enrolled in the AOAP, provides
instructions on taking oil samples, and provides guidance for installation and unit management of
AOAP operations. This publication also informs the equipment maintainer what supplies to
obtain, how to prepare forms, where AOAP laboratories are located, and where to seek
assistance when unusual situations are encountered and appropriate information is not contained
herein.
1-2. Scope. These instructions are applicable to all commands, units (including US Army
National Guard and US Army Reserve), installations, and activities that operate or provide
maintenance support to Army aeronautical and nonaeronautical equipment. As outlined in
AR 750-1, AOAP is mandatory for all AOAP enrolled equipment listed in appendices A
(Aeronautical) and B (Nonaeronautical).
1-3. Abbreviations and Terms. Abbreviations and special terms used in this bulletin are
explained in appendix E.
1-4. Program Description.
a. AOAP is an Army program using machine condition-monitoring technologies to analyze
lubricant samples extracted from enrolled components on a scheduled basis. Worldwide
laboratories equipped with advanced diagnostic instruments can detect and measure damaging
part-wear particulate before it becomes visible to the human eye. The AOAP includes industry
standard condition monitoring technologies, such as spectrometric oil analysis, ferrography, and
online/in-line fault analysis, to determine the internal condition of engines, gearboxes,
transmissions, and other lubricated systems or components. Like other maintenance tools, it
must be used properly to be effective.
b. It doesn't take long to sample the lubricants in a piece of equipment, and that action can
save hours of maintenance downtime through early detection of such problems as faulty air-
induction systems, leaking cooling systems, loose crossover fuel lines, and abnormal wear rates
of moving metal parts. That sample also allows laboratory technicians to determine the quality of
the lubricant or hydraulic fluid, and that translates to savings through laboratory-recommended
oil changes (on-condition). A sample, properly taken and sent to the laboratory, gives the
commander information about equipment condition and maintenance quality. That is an
investment in readiness, and it takes the cooperation of all concerned to make it pay off. Close
contact among the laboratories, USAMC Logistics Assistance Office (LAO) representatives, and
maintenance personnel concerning AOAP-identified equipment problems has improved
maintenance throughout the Army. Equipment reliability is improved through AOAP. Design
changes and product improvements have been made on the basis of oil analysis findings. By
detecting the signs of impending failure at an early stage, maintenance can be performed at a
lower level, thereby reducing the number of catastrophic failures and associated rebuild costs. In
the short run, this decreases maintenance support costs. In the long run, it improves readiness by
