Solutions Applied Chemistry
Core Services
PCB Testing
Although PCBs have been banned since 1977, these persistent organic pollutants are still present in many electrical systems and environmental samples today. Powertech provides PCB testing in various matrices, including oils, water, soil, and swabs. Our analyses help clients assess PCB concentrations before equipment disposal, respond to accidental spills, or ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Oil Quality Testing
Electrical insulating oil is the “life blood” of power transformers. The condition of the oil greatly affects the performance and service Electrical insulating oil is the “lifeblood” of transformers and other oil-filled equipment. Powertech performs comprehensive testing—including dielectric breakdown, power factor, interfacial tension (IFT), acid number, moisture, furaldehyde (Fural) analysis, and Degree of Polymerization (DP) testing—to evaluate oil condition, contamination, and deterioration. These analyses provide a detailed picture of oil condition, supporting preventative maintenance, extending asset life, and ensuring reliable operation.
Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA)
DGA is the cornerstone of our insulating fluids program, providing early detection of faults in transformers and other oil-filled equipment. By analyzing dissolved gases on a regular basis, clients can identify potential issues before they result in costly unplanned outages. We deliver accurate results benchmarked against industry standards, along with diagnostic insights and historical trend data to help clients understand equipment condition and evolving risks.
SF6 Gas Testing
Powertech provides specialized SF6 testing to monitor the condition and performance of gas-insulated electrical equipment. SF6 testing detects leaks, measures gas purity, and identifies contaminants that may indicate equipment degradation. By providing early warning of potential issues, our analyses help clients maintain reliable operation, plan preventative maintenance, and minimize unplanned outages. Additionally, SF6 testing supports environmental compliance by ensuring proper handling of this potent greenhouse gas.
Oil Characterization
Powertech has extensive expertise in handling and analyzing oils, including waste petroleum products, paints, and solvents. Our waste oil analyses are performed in accordance with the British Columbia Hazardous Waste Regulation (HWR) and other relevant standards to determine appropriate disposal routes, such as use in pavement manufacturing or combustion as fuel. We also provide specialized oil identification using GC methods and extensive libraries, ensuring safe handling and compliance with environmental regulations.
Tribology Testing
Powertech operates a comprehensive fuels and lubricants laboratory in accordance with ASTM procedures and other relevant standards, covering engine oils, industrial oils, hydraulic oils, coolants, diesel, and waste oils. Our laboratory identifies deposits and contaminants, evaluates material compatibility, and provides practical recommendations to support reliable equipment performance. Combined with our decades of industrial experience, these capabilities allow us to deliver accurate results, solve technical problems, and offer recommendations.
Environmental Testing
We provide site assessment and environmental monitoring for industries impacted by transformer oil spills or other contaminant releases. Testing of water, soil, and environmental samples, including metals, PCB, and petroleum hydrocarbons, is performed to evaluate and mitigate environmental impact, supporting sustainable operations and regulatory compliance.
Why Choose Powertech?
Multidisciplinary Expertise
Materials scientists, mechanical engineers, chemists, and structural specialists collaborate on custom test plans.
Customized to Your Use Case
We don’t force off-the-shelf tests. We replicate the challenges your system will face—because that’s what matters.
Integrated Lab Infrastructure
Perform electrical, mechanical, chemical, and environmental testing in a single, coordinated environment.
Applicable Standards
Testing is ISO 17025:2017 accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) for specific tests listed in its scope of accreditation.
How This Applies to Your Industry
Utilities & Power Operation
Strengthen grid reliability and extend asset life. From dissolved gas analysis and insulating oil diagnostics to SF₆ and PCB testing, we help utilities prevent failures, meet regulations, and deliver safe, uninterrupted power.
Electrical OEMs
Ensure fluid quality and contamination control for new or refurbished equipment, with accurate testing and characterization services to support product reliability.
Industrial & Manufacturing
Protect critical machinery and processes. With expert tribology and fuel testing, we help manufacturers avoid costly downtime and optimize performance.
Environmental & Remediation
Monitor and manage contamination with confidence. From PCB testing in soils, water, and oils to site assessments and waste oil characterization, we provide trusted data to support compliance and remediation decisions.
Mechanical & Fleet Operations
Keep engines and hydraulics running at peak performance. Our oil, coolant, diesel, and lubricant testing detect wear, contamination, and degradation before they cause breakdowns.
“We specialize in testing insulating fluids, lubricants, fuels, and environmental samples—delivering diagnostic insights, regulatory compliance, and practical solutions to extend equipment life and protect the environment.”
Elwin Ko
Team Lead, Chemistry
Ready to elevate your testing standards?
Powertech’s Applied Chemistry team empowers you to validate performance, ensure compliance, and uncover hidden risks in materials and fluids—before they impact your operations. Whether you're optimizing transformer reliability or troubleshooting field anomalies, our specialized testing capabilities and technical insight help you move forward with clarity and assurance.
Plan Your Test with Us. Reach out today.
Elwin Ko
Team Lead, Chemistry
email us | 604.590.7500
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