ASTM D2265 for dropping point of lubricating grease
ASTM D2265 standard test method for dropping point of lubricating grease over wide temperature range
6. Apparatus
6.1 Dropping Point Assembly (Fig. 1) consisting of the following:
6.1.1 Grease Cup, chromium-plated brass cup conforming to the dimensions shown in A, Fig. 1.

6.1.2 Test Tube, thin walled, soft glass test tube with rim, having dimensions shown in B, Fig. 1.

6.1.3 Cup Support, glass tubing as shown in C, Fig. 1.

6.1.4 Thermometer, thermometer 3C as prescribed in Specification E 1 and shown in D, Fig. 1.

6.1.5 Accessories, thermometer clamp as shown in E-1, bushings as shown in E-2 and E-3, bushing support ring as shown in E-4, thermometer depth gage as shown in E-5, a metal rod as shown in E-6, and cup gage as shown in E-7, all of Fig. 1.

6.2 Aluminum Block Oven, aluminum block oven of the design and dimensions shown in Fig. 2. The block shall be equipped with an integral cartridge-type heater. Control of the current to the heater shall be used to obtain and maintain the desired oven temperature.

6.2.1 Aluminum Block Oven Thermometer, conforming to thermometer 11C in accordance with Specification E 1.

7. Sampling
7.1 The sample presented for analysis should be large enough to make possible the selection of a representative portion for testing. Examine for any indication of non-homogeneity such as oil separation, phase changes, or gross contamination. If any abnormal conditions are found, obtain a new sample.

8. Preparation of Apparatus
8.1 Thoroughly clean the cup, cup support, and test tube with mineral spirits conforming to Specification D235. (Warning - Flammable. Vapor harmful.)

8.2 Use only cups that are clean and free of any residue. When the interior plating of the cup shows indications of wear, discard.

8.3 When new cups are to be used, check their dimensions by using the cup plug gage (E-7 of Fig. 1). To check the bottom opening of the cup a 2.78 mm rod should fit easily while a 2.82 mm rod should not.8 If the hole is undersize, ream to the correct size. If too large, discard. Cups of the proper dimensions need not be rechecked before each test run.

8.4 Test tubes shall be clean and free of residues and conform to the dimensions shown in B, Fig. 1. Inspect for chips or cracks and replace when necessary.

8.5 Sample thermometer bulb shall be clean and free of residues. Inspect bushings for cleanliness and be certain the thermometer clamp, E-1, Fig. 1, is sufficiently tight to hold the thermometer in position.

8.6 The glass sleeve used to support the cup shall be free of any cracks or chips, residue or stain, and conform to the dimensions shown in C, Fig. 1. Replace when necessary.