UOP 389-86 is a trace metals method for oils, designed to help laboratories evaluate metal content in petroleum-derived samples with practical analytical clarity. Based on the official title, Trace Metals in Oils by Wet Ash / ICP—AES, it supports measurement of trace metallic constituents in oil matrices using a wet ash preparation approach followed by ICP-AES analysis. That makes it relevant for buyers who need dependable sample characterization, contamination review, or product quality assessment in refinery and fuel testing environments. UOP 389-86 is a useful reference for teams that depend on consistent metals data for technical review and laboratory reporting.

What does UOP 389-86 measure?

This UOP 389-86 method is focused on trace metals in oils, with the analytical objective of determining metallic components present at low levels in an oil sample. As a UOP Trace Metals Method, it is intended for laboratory measurement work where composition review and contamination assessment are important. The title indicates a wet ash preparation followed by ICP-AES, which points to an instrumental chemistry workflow used to support accurate metals analysis. For laboratories, the method provides a structured way to examine oil samples when trace metal information is needed for quality or technical evaluation.

Where is UOP 389-86 used?

UOP 389-86 is commonly relevant in refinery laboratories, petroleum testing facilities, and technical review groups that evaluate oil samples for trace metals content. Analytical chemists, laboratory analysts, QA/QC specialists, and product quality teams may use it when metals data is needed to support routine sample review, batch comparison, or contamination checks. It is also useful in process-oriented environments where trace metals information helps inform operating decisions or product documentation. In practice, the method fits workflows that depend on repeatable laboratory analysis and clear metals characterization of oil-based materials.

Why is UOP 389-86 important?

UOP 389-86 matters because trace metals can affect product quality assessment, laboratory comparison, and downstream technical decisions. For teams responsible for petroleum sample evaluation, reliable metals data helps improve analytical consistency and supports more confident review of oil condition or composition. The method also gives QA/QC and technical staff a standardized reference for documenting trace metals results in a way that is easier to compare across samples or test events. In everyday laboratory use, that kind of clarity supports better reporting, better review, and more disciplined quality control.

• Trace metals analysis for oil samples
• Wet ash preparation with ICP-AES context
• Supports contamination and composition review
• Relevant to refinery laboratory workflows
• Useful for QA/QC and technical reporting
• Helps compare sample metals data consistently