London-based Intertek, a leading provider of quality and safety solutions to a wide range of industries worldwide, has acquired the QinetiQ Fuels and Lubricants Testing business. The addition of QinetiQ’s fuels and lubricants services expands Intertek’s existing testing, consulting, research and expert services in the United Kingdom and beyond.

Testing of lubricants for energy, industrial, transportation and governmental clients, often called ‘oil condition monitoring’, is a multimillion pound global market, supporting a huge range of moving machinery from engine and gearbox management to windfarm turbines. Lubricant quality problems can cause costly engine and mechanism failures if not detected and addressed properly at an early stage, states Intertek.

In addition, the acquisition of the Fuels and Lubricants business expands Intertek’s capabilities in R&D support for new fuels, lubricants, additive packages and specialist evaluations. Key client sectors include aerospace, renewable energy and defence industries.

“By acquiring the Fuels and Lubricants Testing business from QinetiQ, Intertek increases market share in a number of key markets, allowing us to offer enhanced, higher value consulting and expertise for fuel and lubricant clients. Intertek is also looking forward to a closer working relationship with QinetiQ following this deal,” said Phil Norman, EMEA VP for Intertek’s Chemical & Pharmaceutical division.

Rob Little, MD of QinetiQ Evaluation & Test Services, said, “QinetiQ and Intertek will work closely to ensure a smooth transition of operations. Continuity of service to key customers remains a priority for both parties.”

Intertek, a leading provider of quality and safety solutions serving a wide range of industries around the world, has acquired numerous oil inspection and testing firms in the past few years. Intertek supports customers through its network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 30,000 people in more than 100 countries.

QinetiQ is a leading international provider of technology-based services and solutions to the defence, security and related markets. QinetiQ develops and delivers services and solutions for government organisations, predominantly in the UK and US, including defence departments, intelligence services and security agencies. In addition, QinetiQ provides technology insertion and consultancy services to commercial and industrial customers around the world.