ASTM D1404 Test Method Estimation of Deleterious Particles in Lubricating Grease
1. Scope
1.1 This test method describes a procedure for the detection and estimation of deleterious particles in lubricating grease.
1.2 This test method is applicable to all lubricating greases. It can also be used to test other semi-solid or viscous materials. Grease fillers, such as graphite and molybdenum disulfide, can be tested for abrasive contaminants by first mixing them into petrolatum or grease known to be free of deleterious particles.
1.3 The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems could result in nonconformance with the standard.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D217 Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating Grease
D235 Specification for Mineral Spirits (Petroleum Spirits) (Hydrocarbon Dry Cleaning Solvent)
D785 Test Method for Rockwell Hardness of Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials
D4175 Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum, Petroleum Products, and Lubricants
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 lubricant, n - any material interposed between two surfaces that reduces the friction or wear between them.
3.1.2 lubricating grease, n - a semi-fluid to solid product of a dispersion of a thickener in a liquid lubricant.
3.1.2.1 Discussion - The dispersion of the thickener forms a two-phase system and immobilizes the liquid lubricant by surface tension and other physical forces. Other ingredients are commonly included to impart special properties.
3.1.3 thickener, n - in lubricating grease, a substance composed of finely-divided particles dispersed in a liquid lubricant to form the product's structure.
3.1.3.1 Discussion - The solid thickener can be fibers (such as various metallic soaps) or plates or spheres (such as certain non-soap thickeners), which are insoluble or, at the most, only very slightly soluble in the liquid lubricant. The general requirements are that the solid particles be extremely small, uniformly dispersed, and capable of forming a relatively stable, gel-like structure with the liquid lubricant.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 deleterious particles, n - in lubricating grease, minute bits of solid material present as a contaminant and abrasive to acrylic plastic.
