Cone Penetration and Prolonged Working of

Lubricating Grease
ASTM D217, AFNOR 60-132, DIN 51 804,
IP 50, NOM 38-70

Purpose
Determine the consistency and NLGI grade of a lubricating
grease

Brief Description
A cone of specified weight is allowed to fall into a lubricating
grease sample at 25°C. The depth of the cone, in tenths of a
millimeter, identifies the consistency of the grease. With the
use of Table 1, the NLGI grade of the grease is identified from
the 60 stroke worked penetration.

This test can be used to determine the mechanical stability of

a grease through prolonged working, such as 10,000 or more
double strokes using the motorized grease worker. While cone
penetrations are typically conducted at 25°C, measurements
can be carried out at other temperatures. About 300 grams of
grease are required to conduct the ASTM D217 test. ASTM
method D1403, DIN 51 804, and IP 310 describe cone
penetration equipment commonly referred to as 1/2 and 1/4
scale devices for use when less than 300 grams of grease are
available.

The photos depict the cone prior to release, greases of NLGI

grade 2 and 3 consistencies, and a motorized grease worker.

Table 1: NLGI Classification Scale

NLGI Grade ASTM Worked Pen.

000 445-475
00 400-430
0 355-385
1 310-340
2 265-295
3 220-250
4 175-205
5 130-160
6 85-115

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 1

 Dropping Point of Lubricating Greases

ASTM D2265, AFNOR T 60-102, DIN 51

805, IP 132, NOM 72-71

Purpose
Determine high temperature structural grease properties
related to the thickener

Brief Description
The dropping point of a lubricating grease is the temperature
at which the thickener can no longer hold the base oil. Some
of the reasons oil can no longer be held are that the thickener
has melted or the oil has become so thin it is not held by the
thickener. Grease is placed in a small cup and heated in an
oven-like device. When a drop of oil falls from the lower
opening, the dropping point of the grease is calculated using
the temperatures in the oven and inside the cup. Soap or
polymer thickened greases demonstrate a dropping point while
inorganic thickeners such as clay or graphite may not have a
dropping point. ASTM method D2265 is preferred over the
older and less precise ASTM D566.

Fretting Wear Protection by Lubricating Grease

ASTM D4170

Purpose
Measure fretting wear properties of greases

Brief Description
Weight loss from a pair of ball thrust bearings identifies the
fretting wear prevention properties of a lubricating grease.
The thrust bearings are loaded with 2450 N and oscillated at
30 Hz through 12° for 22 hours at a variety of test
temperatures. Wear results are influenced by base oil viscosity
and oil release. The Fafnir Friction Oxidation Test rig is used
for this test. The photos depict the test bearing and test rig.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 2

 Performance Characteristics of Lubricating
Greases in Ball Bearings at Elevated Temperatures
ASTM D3336, FTM 331/333
(Pope Test)

Purpose
Evaluate grease evaporation and oxidation resistance in a
lightly loaded, high speed, heated ball bearing

Brief Description
A 204 K ball bearing (photo insert) is packed with 3.2 cc of
grease and rotated at 10,000 rpm under light loading while
heated to 150°C, 177°C, or other test temperatures. The test
cycle is 20 hours of running and 4 hours at rest. When
electrical current to operate the spindle motor increases by
300% of the value of the newly packed bearing, testing is
stopped and the number of running hours is the test result.
This test is named for the builder of the high speed
spindle, Pope Spindle Co. Satisfactorily performing greases
have low viscosity base oils that resist evaporation and
oxidation and that readily release oil.

MRC Method - Performance Characteristics of

Lubricating Grease in Antifriction Bearings at
Elevated Temperatures and Loads
CRC L 54
Purpose
Measure grease evaporation and oxidation resistance in a high
speed ball bearing

Brief Description
A 204 K ball bearing is packed with 3.2 cc of grease and
rotated at 3,000, 10,000, or 20,000 rpm under thrust loading
as high as 145 kg while heated to a maximum of 232°C.
Testing is 20 hours of running and 4 hours at rest. See ASTM
D3336 for a similar test. Greases with good oxidation and
evaporation resistance and oil release characteristics will
generally perform well in this test. This test is referred to as
the MRC test because it uses a high speed spindle first
produced by the MRC Corporation.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 3

Mechanical-Dynamic Testing of Roller Bearing
Greases
DIN 51 806 & SKF R2F

Purpose
Evaluate the ability of grease to satisfactorily lubricate a double
row spherical roller bearing (photo insert) operated at various
speeds and temperatures

Brief Description
This method evaluates the lubrication characteristics of a
grease in two spherical roller bearings operating at 2500
(Procedure A) or 1500 (Procedure B) rpm, 850 kg load, and a
variety of test temperatures. The test typically runs 480
hours, which includes a re-packing of the bearing after 24
hours. At the end of the test, the bearings are examined for
wear and deposits. Bearings specified for this method, as well
as test rating methods, have frequently changed. Test rating
methods are presently based on visual inspection.
Satisfactorily performing greases have good mechanical
stability, usually having a base oil viscosity of ISO VG 100 or
more and a moderate oil release.

Electric Motor Testing of Lubricating Greases

Future Mobil Method
Purpose
Determine grease performance in electric motor service

Brief Description
The front ball bearing of a Reliance electric motor is packed
with the test grease and operated at 3600 rpm, 150°C. and
75 pounds of load. The test can be run continuously until fail
or can be operated cyclically, with 20 hours running followed
by 4 hours switched off. Motor horsepower, bearing vibration,
temperature, and heater current are recorded. The test
continues until the grease consistency thickens from oxidation
and/or evaporation. Increased vibration identifies that the
grease has become dry and is a poor lubricant.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 4

Life Performance of Automotive Wheel Bearing
Grease
A STM D3527

Purpose
Evaluate grease life in simulated wheel bearing service

Brief Description
The two tapered roller bearings in the photo are placed in a
modified automotive wheel hub and rotated at 1000 rpm with
a thrust loading of 111 N. Testing continues for 20 hours at
160°C and 4 hours of no rotation at room temperature.
Testing ends when the electrical current to operate the drive
motor increases to 4 times the values of the new lubricant.
Grease performance is influenced by evaporation and oxidation
resistance. The test apparatus is also used for ASTM D4290.

Wheel Bearing Leakage Tendencies

ASTM D4290

Purpose
Evaluate wheel bearing grease leakage tendencies

Brief Description
The same automotive wheel spindle used in ASTM D3527 is
used for this determination of oil release from the grease. The
test runs for only 20 hours at 160°C under a thrust loading of
111 N and at 1000 rpm. The oil and grease released from the
larger tapered roller bearing are collected, weighed, and
reported at the end of the test. The condition of the test
bearings is also reported. Mechanical stability and oil viscosity
are important contributors to low oil release as measured by
this test. The heating elements in the test chamber are
evident in the photo of the equipment used for this test and
the D3527 method.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 5

Wear-Preventative Characteristics of Lubricating
Greases (Four-Ball Method)
ASTM D2266

Purpose
Determine wear prevention properties of greases in sliding
steel-on-steel applications

Brief Description
A 12.7 mm (0.5 inch) steel (52100) ball is rotated against
three stationary balls of the same description. Lubricant
surrounds the balls. Common test conditions are 1200 rpm,
75°C, 60 minutes, and 40 kg load. Other conditions may be
selected. Scar diameters on the three balls are the reported
results. See ASTM D2596 for similar test equipment. The
presence of extreme pressure (EP) additives may contribute to
large wear scars.

Measurement of Extreme Pressure Properties of

Lubricating Greases (Four-Ball Method)
ASTM D2596

Purpose
Evaluation of the extreme pressure, antiwear, and anti-weld
properties of lubricated sliding steel balls

Brief Description
A 12.7 mm (0.5 inch) steel (52100 ) ball is rotated against
three stationary balls of the same description. Lubricant
surrounds the balls. Test conditions are 1770 rpm, 25°C, and
10 seconds duration. Testing steps continue with new balls
and an increased load until welding of the four balls occurs.
For test steps with no welding, ball scar diameters are used to
calculate the load wear index (LWI), which along with the weld
load, are the reported results. See ASTM D2266 for similar
test equipment. The tester and welded balls are pictured.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 6

Measurement of Extreme Pressure Properties of
Lubricating Greases (Timken Method)
ASTM D2509, IP 326

Purpose
Evaluate extreme pressure, antiwear, and anti-weld properties
of grease

Brief Description
A tapered roller bearing cup (ring) is rotated against a
stationary steel block that is also made of tapered roller
bearing steel. During the 10 minute test, a grease flow
lubricates the parts while the block is forced against the
rotating cup. New parts are tested at increasing loads until
welding occurs. Welding is identified by any irregular scar on
the block. Results are reported as the OK load, which is the
load (in pounds) just prior to welding.

(Mobil does not consider this test to be a good predictor of field

performance for load carrying properties)

Timken Retention Test (US

Steel Modified)
Mobil Method M1398

Purpose
Determine the load carrying capacity of open gear lubricants

Brief Description
The same block and ring are that are used for ASTM D2509
are used for the Timken retention test. Four grams of test
grease are applied to the test parts at the start of the test.
The test operates at 800 rpm at room temperature. After each
30 minute test, the block is examined for scoring. The test is
repeated at increased loads until scoring occurs. Results are
reported as OK load.

(Mobil does not consider this test to be a good predictor of field

performance for load carrying properties)

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 7

 Water Washout Characteristics of Lubricating
Greases
ASTM D1264

Purpose
Determine the ability of a lubricating grease to resist removal
from a rotating bearing by a stream of heated water

Brief Description
A 204 K ball bearing (photo insert) lubricated with the test
grease is rotated at 600 rpm while a stream of 5 ml per second
of water heated to 38°C or 79°C is directed on the bearing for
one hour. Then the bearing is dried and weighed to determine
the amount of grease removed. The presence of additives that
promote water and oil emulsions may reduce the amount of
grease removed. Materials such as polymers that improve the
adhesion of the grease may also increase the amount of
grease remaining in the bearing.

Resistance of Lubricating Greases to Water Spray

ASTM D4049

Purpose
Evaluate adhesion properties of lubricating greases to a metal
panel in the presence of a heated water spray

Brief Description
Grease removal is measured when 38°C water is sprayed at
40 psi for 5 minutes on a weighed quantity of grease.
Cohesive and adhesive properties of the grease are measured
by the percentage of grease removed after the first drying of
the test fixture. The same principals of grease composition
that contribute to performance in the ASTM D1264 test may
apply to this test. The ASTM D4049 test is commonly used in
steel mill grease specifications. The photo insert illustrates
high and low grease removal; the depressions in the grease
are from the individual water droplets.

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 Dynamic Rust Testing (Emcor Method)
ASTM D6138, IP 220 & 220 Modified
T 60-135, DIN 51 802

Purpose
Evaluate grease-lubricated ball bearing rust prevention in the
presence of water or water solutions

Brief Description
Double row ball bearings (photo insert) packed with grease are
rotated at 80 rpm for 8 hours during the first three days of the
test. Four days of no rotation follow. Test conditions and
methods are:
A. 10 mL of water in the bearing housing
B. 1 liter of water flows through the bearing
C. 10 mL of sea water in the bearing housing
D. Acid water at pH 4.5 in the bearing housing
E. Other solutions may be used

As in other dynamic tests involving water and lubricating

grease, the presence of emulsion forming additives may lead
to product softening.

Rust Preventative Properties of Lubricating

Greases
ASTM D1743

Purpose
Evaluate rust prevention properties of greases in tapered roller
bearings

Brief Description
Grease is packed into a tapered roller bearing and rotated for
one minute to distribute the grease. The bearing is then
immersed in water for 1 minute and placed in a humid 52°C
atmosphere for 48 hours. Test durations can be varied and
solutions other than water may also be used. Because this test
is not a dynamic method, emulsion forming additives have a
lesser effect on grease performance. The photo illustrates the
test bearing and several examples of corrosion.

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Low Temperature Torque of Ball Bearing Greases
ASTM D1478

Purpose
Evaluate grease properties in ball bearings at low temperatures

Brief Description
A single 204 K ball bearing is packed with grease and cooled to
the test temperature. The bearing is then rotated at 1 rpm to
measure the starting and running torque, which are indications
of the grease’s consistency at the test temperature. See ASTM
D4693 which is a similar test in principle, but uses tapered
roller bearings. Grease characteristics strongly influencing this
test are base oil viscosity, NLGI grade, and the presence of
polymers.

The tester and low temperature apparatus are used for this
test and for ASTM D4693. In the test apparatus photo, the
lever arm is connected to the bearing hub and depresses the
load measuring device located below the floor of the tester.

Low Temperature Torque of

Grease Lubricated Wheel
Bearings
ASTM D4693

Purpose
Measure a lubricating grease’s effect on tapered roller bearing
rotation resistance at the temperature of interest

Brief Description
Two tapered roller bearings are packed with grease and then
cooled to the test temperature. The bearings are rotated at 1
rpm to measure the starting and running torque, which are
indicators of the consistency of the grease at the test
temperature. This method is used in NLGI Grease
Classification Tests, ASTM Method D4950, and in other
automotive grease specifications.

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 Flow Properties of Grease at Low Temperature
(US Steel Method)
United States Steel Test

Purpose
Determine grease flow properties at -18°C

Brief Description
The flow rate in grams per minute is determined when
lubricating grease cooled to -18°C is forced through the largest
capillary used in the ASTM D1092 Apparent Viscosity Test.
The ASTM D1092 grease cylinder and piston are also used.
Results from this test are similar to those results from D1092.
Grease flow can also be determined at other temperatures.
Base oil viscosity has a large effect on grease flow.

Elastomer Compatibility with Lubricating Grease

ASTM D4289, Mobil Method

Purpose
Measure the compatibility between greases and elastomers

Brief Description
In ASTM D4289, elastomer samples are immersed in a grease
for 70 hours at 100°C or 150°C. Volume and hardness change
(ASTM D2240, Durometer A) are reported. Elastomers
specified by this test are Standard Elastomer CR (chloroprene)
and Standard Elastomer NBR-L (acrylonitrile). Tests may be
conducted for other times, temperatures, and elastomers.
Other tests include ASTM D638 (Tensile Strength and
Elongation) and ASTM D1505 (Density).

In addition, grease compatibility with nylon cages is tested

under a Mobil Test Method.

The photos illustrate tensile and elongation testing in progress

and specimens before and after rupture. A nylon bearing cage
is also shown.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 11

 Optimol SRV Test

ASTM 5706, Mobil Method MM 1608

Purpose
Measure friction, wear, and EP properties of greases under
oscillating conditions

Brief Description
Test conditions: Load 1 to 1400 N, temperature -40°C to
200°C, frequency 1 to 150 Hz, stroke 0.01 to 0.03 mm,
duration up to 10 hours. Test parts are:

•Ball (10 mm) on lapped or ground disc

•On end cylinder on disc
•Line contact cylinder on disc
•Special parts fabricated from components

Lubricant performance (wear, friction, or EP) in this oscillation

test may not correlate with results from unidirectional methods
such as ASTM D2266, D 2509, or D2596. Test specimens
pictured illustrate the ball on disc configuration (left) and the
scar produced from the ball on disc configuration (right).

Oscillating Roll/Slide Grease Evaluation

Mobil Method MM 1609

Purpose
Evaluate wear protection in oscillating and sliding conditions

Brief Description
The Oscillating Roll/Slide test is an attachment to the FALEX
Multi-specimen Tester. In this test, a 12.7 mm steel ball, such
as that used for ASTM D2266 is rolled between four coupon
specimens. Sliding of the ball also occurs. Test loads can be
as high as 363 kg and oscillating angles can range from 1 to 90
degrees. Test temperatures can be as high as 150°C with
duration as long as 100 hours. Data reported are friction and
weight loss of the test coupon.

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Churned Grease Oil Release
Mobil Method MM 1066

Purpose
Determine the rate of oil release from greases

Brief Description
A sample of grease is churned for 2 hours at 600 rpm in a RIV
test machine. The RIV unit consists of three steel balls
separated by a bronze cage rotating in a steel bowl. This
simulates the churning action in a spherical roller bearing. Half
scale penetrations are determined before and after the
churning to measure the change in consistency. A sample of
the churned grease is tested for oil release by determining the
amount of oil absorbed by a pad of dry filter papers in contact
with the grease at 130°F for 2 hours. An intermediate oil-
soaked filter paper disk is used to separate the grease and dry
filter paper pad to avoid grease transfer.

Hot RIV Grease Compatibility

Mobil Method

Purpose
Determine the compatibility and related lubrication
performance (structural stability) of a mixture of two greases

Brief Description
The RIV test machine is used to simulate the churning action
that a grease would experience in a rolling element bearing.
The test is run at 200°F and 600 rpm for 2 hours. Mixtures of
the two test greases are prepared in varying proportions and
subjected to two hours in the hot RIV tester. The penetration
of each mixture is measured and plotted on a graph. The
magnitude of consistency change from the “ideal mixing line” is
a measure of compatibility. According to an arbitrary rating
system, less than 30 points change is “compatible”, 31-60
points change is “borderline compatible”, and more than 60
points change is “incompatible”.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 13

 FAG FE9
DIN 51 821

Purpose
Measure the friction properties of greases

Brief Description
Five ball bearings, packed with 2 cc of grease each, are placed
in angular contact at high temperature (120-200°C), speed
(3000 or 6000 rpm), and load (1500, 3000, or 4500 N axial).
The test is ended when the drive power required to turn the
bearing increases to twice its original value because of starved
lubrication. It is then possible to determine the frictional
moment of the test bearing from the increase in motor output.
Such an increase in the frictional moment indicate that the
bearing will soon fail. The time at which the bearings have a
failure probability of 10% and 50% (denoted L10 and L50,
respectively) are calculated from the data and reported.

This test will be installed at PTC in 1999.

Pressurized Differential Scanning Calorimeter

(PDSC) Test
ASTM D5483, Mobil Method

Purpose
Evaluate high temperature and oxidative properties of greases
(FAG FE9 Screener)

Brief Description
A 1 milligram sample of grease in an aluminum pan is placed
into the front platform of the PDSC cell (see insert). An empty
pan is placed as a reference on the rear platform. Both pans
are subjected to a 500 psi pressure and constant flow (100
mL/min) of oxygen. The temperature is either maintained at a
steady state value or ramped at a specified rate. If the steady
state conditions are used, the test is run for 2 hours and a
graph of heat flow versus time is evaluated. The induction
time (oxidation onset time) is reported. Under transient
conditions, the oxidation onset temperature is measured.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 14

Brookfield Viscosity of Semi-Fluid Greases
Mobil Method

Purpose
Measure the consistency of greases of NLGI grade 00 or softer

Brief Description
For semi-fluid greases, it is sometimes desirable to measure a
Brookfield viscosity rather than a cone penetration. As a
spindle is rotated in the grease, a torque is produced as the
grease resists rotation. This torque value is converted into an
apparent viscosity reported in centipoise at a specified shear
rate and temperature. The shear rate is a function of the
spindle diameter and the speed of rotation.

Apparent Viscosity
ASTM D1092

Purpose
Determine the apparent viscosity of a grease

Brief Description
In this test, a sample of grease is forced through each of a
series of eight capillary tubes by a floating piston actuated by a
hydraulic system using a two-speed constant volume gear
pump. Pressure in the hydraulic system is measured. The
equipment is designed so that determinations can be made at
any temperature between -54°C and 28°C. Results are shown
graphically as apparent viscosity versus shear rate at a
constant temperature or as apparent viscosity versus
temperature at a constant shear rate. The results may be
related to the ease of handling and dispensing and to starting
and running torques of grease lubricated mechanisms.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 15

Bomb Oxidation
ASTM D942

Purpose
Evaluate the oxidation stability of greases

Brief Description
In this test, each of the five glass dishes in the bomb is filled
with 4 grams of test grease. The bomb is sealed and
pressurized to 100 psi with oxygen and placed in a bath held
at 99°C. The pressure in the bomb is recorded at prescribed
intervals throughout the test. At the end of the specified test
time, usually 100, 200, or 500 hours, the pressure drop is
calculated and reported. A drop in pressure may occur when
oxygen reacts with the grease, while no loss in pressure may
indicate that oxygen has not reacted with the grease.

Evaporation Loss
ASTM D972, ASTM D2595

Purpose
Measure the evaporation loss of a grease

Brief Description
A sample of grease is placed in an evaporation cell that can be
held at an elevated temperature while warm, clean air is
passed over the surface of the grease at a specified rate for 22
hours. ASTM D972 uses an oil bath to heat the evaporation
test cell and the air which passes over the grease. D972 can
be conducted at temperatures ranging from 99°C to
148°C. An aluminum block heater is used in ASTM D2595 and
tests can be conducted at temperatures ranging from 99°C to
316°C. Evaporation losses are reported in weight percent.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 16

Oil Separation During Storage
ASTM D1742

Purpose
Predict the tendency of a grease to separate oil during storage

Brief Description
In this test, a sample of grease supported on a 200-mesh
screen is subjected to a pressure of 0.25 psi for 24 hours at
25°C. Any oil that seeps from the grease is collected,
weighed, and reported as the percent by weight of oil
separated.

Trabon Test
Trabon Method 905A

Purpose
Predict the tendency of a grease to separate oil while under
pressure in a Trabon delivery system

Brief Description

In the Trabon test, 10 pounds of grease are supplied to one

primary feeder and three secondary feeders. All feeders are
filled with grease and the back pressure is raised to 1000 psi.
The system pump is operated at 1 stroke per hour and the
pressure in the secondary feeders is recorded daily. After 500
hours, the test is terminated and all four feeders are examined
for firm grease and separated oil. The test grease is rated
based on the combination of pressure increase in the
secondary feeders and the amount of oil separation during the
test. Less than a 500 psi increase is acceptable if there is little
or no firmed grease observed. Pictured are a passing result
(left) and a failing result (right). Note the feeder plate
passages clogged with separated thickener.

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 Wet Churn Test
Mobil Method MM1295

Purpose
Determine the relative resistance of grease to large volumes of
water under high shear conditions

Brief Description
A double row spherical roller bearing is packed with a sample
of the test grease and inserted in a sealed housing coupled to
a motor shaft. A lever arm assembly prevents rotation of the
housing and provides for radial hydraulic loading to reduce
vibration and to simulate working application. Distilled water is
injected into the housing at the start of the rotating churn test.
Under the wet conditions, emulsification results in grease
softening. Any leakage or insufficient lubrication producing a
200°F packing temperature terminates the test. At the end of
the test, the one-half scale penetration is determined by ASTM
D1403. Grease appearance, consistency, and separated water
are also recorded. The test is usually run with 75 grams of
grease and 25 grams of water for 30 minutes at 75 pound
load. Other conditions may also be used.

Static Ball Bearing Endurance Life Test for Grease

Mobil Method MM1185

Purpose
Evaluate the relative ability of greases to sustain suitable
grease structure for an extended period of time at an elevated
temperature

Brief Description
An unshielded single row ball bearing is packed with grease
and suspended in an oven at the desired temperature
(generally 350°F). At regular intervals (daily or weekly), the
bearing is removed from the oven and cooled to room
temperature. The inner race is held while the outer race is
rotated by hand. If the outer race moves freely or with little
difficulty, the bearing is returned to the oven. If the outer
race is frozen or moves with difficulty, the test is discontinued
and the total oven storage time is recorded as the endurance
life.

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 Mobility of Grease

Mobil Method MM1390

Purpose
Measure the flow properties of greases at low temperatures

Brief Description
A sample of grease is cooled to the test temperature and then
forced through a capillary by means of a floating piston
actuated by a constant gas pressure. The weight of grease
collected over a period of 1 minute is reported as grease
mobility. The results may be related to ease of handling and
dispensing, particularly at low temperatures.

This test is similar to ASTM D1092 but uses only the #1

capillary.

Consistency at High Temperatures

ASTM D3232

Purpose
Determine the apparent viscosity of greases at elevated
temperatures

Brief Description
The grease sample is packed into an annular groove cut into a
cylindrical aluminum block. The center prong of a three-prong
probe on a Brookfield viscometer fits into a hole drilled through
the center of the block and serves as a guide. The two outer
prongs rotate in the grease sample while the block and its
contents are heated at a uniform rate. Torque readings, made
at one minute intervals, are converted to viscosity versus
temperature plots. This test is often used to supplement
ASTM D2265, as more information can be drawn from the
curves than from a simple dropping point.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 19

Centrifugal Bleed of Greases
Mobil Method MM1406

Purpose
Determine the tendency of lubricating greases to separate oil
when subjected to high centrifugal forces

Brief Description
Centrifuge tubes are charged with grease samples and placed
in the centrifuge. The samples are subjected to a centrifugal
force equivalent to 36,000 G at a specified temperature up to
39°C for either 1 or 6 hours. The tubes are then removed and
the oil thoroughly drained. The tubes are re-weighed and the
percent oil bleed is calculated. The test predicts performance
in high-speed couplings, universal joints, and other machine
components which subject grease to large and prolonged
centrifugal forces.

Gelman Bleed
Mobil Method MM1407

Purpose
Determine the tendency of a grease to separate oil when
subjected to pressure

Brief Description
A 100-gram sample of grease is placed in a Gelman pressure
filtration funnel, shown at left, in contact with a three-micron
filter pad. The apparatus is pressurized with nitrogen to 25 psi
and stored in an oven at 130°F for 24 hours. The total oil
bleed through the filter is collected and reported in milliliters.
Excessive oil separation is an indication of poor handling
properties in central systems.

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 Cone Bleed

FTM 321.3

Purpose
Evaluate the effect of heat on the oil separation tendency of a
greases

Brief Description
A measured amount of grease in a 60-mesh wire screen cone
suspended over a weighed beaker is stored in a oven for a
prescribed time: 30 hours at 100°C is typical. At the end of
the test, the oil accumulated in the beaker is weighed and
converted to a weight percent of oil bleed.

Roll Stability of Lubricating Greases

ASTM D1831
Purpose
Measure grease mechanical properties

Brief Description
Grease is placed in a cylinder containing a 5 kg roller and
rotated at room temperature and 165 rpm for 2 hours. The
change in cone penetration (ASTM D217) is used to measure
mechanical stability. The test produces low shearing forces
approximately equal to those found in the grease worker used
for ASTM D217. The photo illustrates extreme mechanical
softening for the grease on the right and no softening for the
mechanically stable grease on the left.

Modified D1831 Methods

Brief Description
Modified methods include:
A. Wet Roll -- 50 grams of grease and 100 grams of water
are rolled for 2 hours at 25°C.
B. Hot Wet Roll -- 75 grams of grease and 25 grams of water
are rolled for 6 hours at 65°C.
C. Hot Roll -- 50 grams of grease are rolled for 96 hours at
82°C.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 21

Steel Strip Corrosiveness of Lubricating Greases

Mobil Method MM1625

Purpose
Determine the corrosiveness of lubricating greases to steel at
elevated temperatures

Brief Description
A polished steel strip is immersed in grease at 121°C for 3
hours and then visually examined for evidence of corrosion.
The corrosiveness of a sample is determined by comparing the
test strip to the steel rod standards used for the Cimco test.
Generally, any test strip rated higher than “1” would be cause
for concern.

Copper Corrosion
ASTM D4048

Purpose
Determine the corrosiveness of lubricating greases to copper
at elevated temperatures

Brief Description
A cleaned and polished copper strip is immersed vertically in
the grease sample. The assembly is placed in an oven for a
given time and temperature, then removed and cooled.
Commonly used conditions are 100°C for 24 hours. The strip
is cleaned and observed for staining and corrosion. The
corrosiveness of the sample is determined by comparing the
test strip to ASTM Copper Strip Corrosion Standards shown at
left.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 22

Cincinnati Milacron (CMco) Corrosion Test

Cincinnati Milacron P-Spec; Mobil

Method MM 1183

Purpose
Determine the corrosiveness of lubricating greases to steel and
copper at elevated temperatures

Brief Description
A copper and a steel rod (top left) are immersed in a beaker
filled with 200 mL of test grease and heated to 135°C for 168
hours. The rods are removed and rated by visual examination
according to the Mobil Corrosion Standards for Copper and
Steel (shown middle and bottom left). Deposits on the rods
are evaluated qualitatively.

For official P-Spec approvals (P-64, P-72, P-79), the test

greases must be sent to Cincinnati Milacron for re-testing
under Test Procedure B (72 hours, 101°C).

Dirt Content of Lubricating Greases

FTM 3005.4

Purpose
Determine the size and concentration of particles in lubricating
greases

Brief Description
This test consists of applying a known quantity of grease to a
slide and examining the slide with a microscope to determine
the size and number of particles present. Shown at right is a
metallic particle under magnification.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 23

SKF “Be Quiet” Test

SKF MVH 90 B

Purpose
Determine the cleanliness of lubricating greases by measuring
bearing noise

Brief Description
As underlined by SKF’s New Life Theory, the use of clean
lubricants for roller bearings is essential for obtaining a long
bearing life. SKF has developed the new BEQUIET test rig to
give a quantitative assessment of the noise characteristics of a
grease. The rig measures disturbances caused by overrolling
of particles, called vibration peaks. The number of peaks
detected and their intensity are used to assess the quiet
running behavior of a grease. Peak values are reported and
the grease is classified as BQ1-BQ4.

This test will be installed at PTC during 1999.

Fling Off
Mobil Method

Purpose
Evaluate the adhesion properties of lubricating greases

Brief Description
The fling off test rig simulates the centrifugal forces found in a
variety of applications where grease adhesion is important.
The channel area of a pre-weighed grooved disk is packed with
grease, re-weighed, and placed in an oven at 130°F for 1 hour.
The disk and grease are then removed from the oven and
immediately run on the test rig at 1750 rpm for 1 minute. The
disk is cooled to room temperature and the weight % of
grease lost is calculated.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 24

 FAG FE8
DIN 51 819

Purpose
Evaluate the effect of greases on the friction and wear
behavior of rolling bearings

Brief Description
The FAG FE8 test rig was designed to simulate the tribological
systems of real-world applications. Grease testing follows
condition 1, although several variations of the test can be run.
Condition 1 uses angular contact ball bearings (FAG #536050)
run at 7.5 rpm under an axial load of 80 kN. Two new pre-
weighed test bearings are packed with grease and run at a
self-induced temperature for 500 hours. During the test run,
the friction moment of both bearings and the outer ring
temperatures are recorded. Wear of the parts is determined
after the run. The amount of wear is statistically evaluated
according to the Weibull failure distribution diagram and the
10% and 50% rolling element set wear values in mg (V10 and
V50, respectively) are reported. The friction moment at start,
20, 100, and 500 hours and the steady state and maximum
temperatures are also reported.

Lincoln Ventmeter

Lincoln Method, Mobil Method

Purpose
Evaluate the performance of lubricating greases in a
centralized lubrication system

Brief Description
The Lincoln Ventmeter test measures the degree to which a
grease will flow due to residual pressure and temperature.
The apparatus is charged with the test grease by way of a
hydraulic grease fitting. All air is expelled in the charging
process. Valves 1 and 2 are both closed and additional
lubricant is pumped into the instrument to develop a pressure
of 1800 psi. Valve 1 is opened for 30 seconds and the vent
pressure is recorded.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 25

Batch Grease Production Unit

Purpose
Manufacture pilot plant scale blends of grease via the
traditional contactor/kettle method

Brief Description
The pilot batch grease unit, located in 25 building at PTC,
includes a variety of equipment commonly used to
manufacture grease via traditional methods. The
manufacturing equipment includes a 100-pound contactor with
a hot oil heating system, 100- and 400-pound mixing kettles,
and a homogenizer.

The contactor (top left) is generally operated at temperatures

up to 500°F and pressures up to 150 psi. The contactor is also
furnished with an 1800 rpm agitator to provide adequate
mixing. Because it is often necessary to sample the soap
during saponification, the contactor is equipped with a small
sampling box.

Once saponification is complete, the soap is transferred from

the contactor to the 100-pound kettle (bottom left), where
additives and cutback oil are introduced. The temperature of
the kettle is controlled with steam and cooling water. In
addition to blending provided by the kettle’s counter-rotating
paddle blades and scrapers, a recycle loop moves material
from the bottom to the top of the kettle for even greater
mixing.

During kettle recycle, the grease is homogenized at pressures

up to 5000 psi. This creates intense shearing to break down
solid particles and produce a uniform dispersion of soap.

During the entire grease making process, temperatures and

pressures in the contactor, kettle, homogenizer and hot oil
heating system are monitored. The unit is equipped with 400
psi nitrogen, a 500°F, 50 psi hot oil system, 80 psi plant air,
160 psi steam, and house water. Numerous exhaust ports
around the unit keep dust and vapors from escaping.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 26

Batch Grease Production Unit

Clockwise from top left: Bottom of contactor

and sampling port (circled); 400-lb kettle;
homogenizer; hot oil heating system located
outside 25 bldg.

Mobil Proprietary Document Page 27