1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the tendency of a lubricating grease to separate oil during storage in both normally filled and partially filled containers.
1.2 This test method is not suitable for greases softer than NLGI No. 1 grade.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard, except for the dimensions in Fig. 2 and Fig. 5, where inch-pound units are 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. For a specific hazard statement, see 7.1.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards
E 11 Specification for Wire Cloth and Sieves for Testing Purposes
2.2 Other Standard
NLGI Grease Consistency Classification
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions
3.1.1 lubricating grease, n-a semi-fluid to solid product of a thickener in a liquid lubricant.
3.1.1.1 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.
3.1.2 thickener, n-in lubricating grease, a substance composed of finely-divided particles dispersed in a liquid lubricant to form the product's structure.
3.1.2.1 Discussion - The thickeners can be fibers (such as various metallic soaps) or plates or spheres (such as certain non-soap thickeners), which are insoluble or, at 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.
3.1.3 oil separation, n-the appearance of a liquid fraction from an otherwise homogeneous lubricating composition.
