VLS Bulletin – September 2024 – VLS 010182
VLS 010182 – Varol Varpress Hydraulic Oil 46 AW 20L
On 5th June 2023 the case was reported to VLS.
VLS received a complaint concerning Varol Varpress 46 AW. The complaint alleged that the product label claims DIN 51524 Part 2, however when the product was tested The Complainant’s results for foam performance were outside the specification.
VLS procured and tested a sample of the product and found that the results fell outside the limits as given in DIN 51524 Pt 2. The sample had been mixed prior to testing.
The test results were shared with the Named Party in a letter setting out details of the complaint on Tuesday 17th August. In response the Named Party acknowledged receipt of the correspondence from VLS on 17th August which contained the test results in the main body of the letter, they stated that they would start their investigation and requested a copy the independent laboratory report from a UKAS approved laboratory. VLS provided a copy of the report from a UKAS accredited laboratory on Tuesday 26th September.
Following their investigation, the Named Party reviewed and amended the formulation.
VLS was content to close the investigation and arrange a six-month review of the case in line with its stated process.
On 18th September 2024 VLS undertook a six-month review of the case in line with its stated process.
As part of the review VLS procured and tested a sample of the product which demonstrated no improvement.
Following further dialogue with the Lubricant Marketer they have advised that the sample checked as part of the six-month review was old stock that was sold to a distributor, who then sold it to a sub-distributor when their product recall was actioned. They advised that they were addressing this issue going forward as part of their Quality Management System to ensure it didn’t happen again if quarantine/recall of a product is put in place.
VLS then procured and tested a further sample of product issued after the initial case investigation concluded and following formulation amendments made by the Lubricant Marketer. The results showed that the revised product is well within the DIN 51524-2 specification for foaming characteristics and the case is therefore closed.
David Wright, Company Secretary of VLS said “We want to ensure we have the highest standards in Europe for lubricant manufacture, blending and marketing, and we want a ‘level playing field’ for all participants, so that we protect the interests of the consumer and other end users.
In the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (UK) Ltd, we have set our course for stronger industry self-regulation by working positively towards more open and transparent competition that benefits all lubricant organisations.”
September 2024
