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Idemitsu Smart OC: Revolutionizing Lubricant Diagnosis

Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently launched an industry-first service named Idemitsu Smart OC. This innovative tool utilizes a smartphone and specialized mobile application to diagnose the condition of lubricants effectively. Customers can now assess lubricant degradation levels in mere minutes, marking a significant advancement in lubricant monitoring and quality management. This groundbreaking service has garnered recognition, receiving the prestigious Good Design Award for 2025 from the Japan Design Promotion Association.

How Does Idemitsu Smart OC Work?

The unique feature of Idemitsu Smart OC lies in its straightforward operation. Users simply need to place a small amount (2cc) of lubricant into a special photography module, which then captures an image using the smartphone's camera. This setup, backed by advanced analytical technology, allows for high-precision diagnosis that is unaffected by environmental factors such as weather or lighting conditions.

Lubricants play a crucial role in mechanical operations, serving to prevent friction, wear, and rust. Maintaining quality control of lubricants is essential for optimal performance and stable operation of machinery. Traditionally, evaluating lubricant degradation depended heavily on the experience of skilled workers, a process complicated by the current shortage of labor due to declining birth rates. The rising demands in machinery maintenance and a pressing need for greater efficiency in quality management further underscore the importance of this service.

Immediate Benefits of the Service

With Idemitsu Smart OC, users can conduct quantitative assessments in just minutes. Even less experienced workers can estimate the remaining lifespan of lubricants, thereby reducing reliance on external analysis agencies. This efficiency not only boosts productivity but also helps to determine the optimal timing for lubricant replacement. The result is lower intervals for parts replacements and oil changes, leading to reduced costs and minimized environmental impacts from waste oil disposal.

Idemitsu’s lubricant division embodies the philosophy of ‘The Heart of Technology’, striving to foster a prosperous society through lubrication technology. The introduction of the Idemitsu Smart OC service aligns perfectly with goals to improve work environments in the manufacturing sector while contributing to global sustainability initiatives.

Key Features of Idemitsu Smart OC

• - User Friendly: Just take a photo via the app to quantify lubricant degradation, eliminating subjective assessments, especially relevant given the shortage of skilled labor.
• - Early Detection: Quickly identifies lubricant degradation, enhancing stable operation of machinery.
• - Cost Reduction: Estimates lubricant lifespan to optimize replacement schedules, effectively minimizing waste disposal and maintenance efforts.
• - On-Site Analysis: Allows for quantitative data collection without halting machinery, reducing the frequency of external sample analyses.

About the Good Design Award

Founded in 1957, the Good Design Award program represents Japan's leading design evaluation and recommendation framework. It honors excellent designs that enhance everyday life and society, irrespective of their physical or non-physical nature. The Idemitsu Smart OC service has been commended for its capacity to quickly diagnose lubricant conditions while contributing to resolving social issues like labor shortages and environmental burdens.

For more information:
Visit the Good Design Award Gallery

Contact for Product Inquiries
Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., Lubricants Department 2
Customer Contact Page (Select ‘Lubricants & Engine Oil’ for inquiries)