The purpose of the Joint Oil Analysis Program is to ensure timely and accurate oil support and other fluidwetted component analysis support to Army, Navy, and Air Force customers through the strategic location of all oil analysis laboratories and through the standardization of procedures, data elements, analytical instrumentation, and diagnostic techniques. The JOAP is a combined effort of the Army, Navy, and Air Force to establish and maintain a standard program. The JOAP uses oil analysis as a maintenance diagnostic tool to:
(1) Determine the internal condition of aeronautical and non-aeronautical engines, transmissions, and gearboxes, and their oil-wetted components through the analysis of used lubricating oils, grease, and fluids. Its goal is flight safety, enhanced equipment readiness, reduced maintenance costs, and the extension of component life.
(2) Determine the suitability of lubricants and fluids for continued use, resulting in savings and early detection of harmful conditions that, if not corrected, could promote premature component failure.
