The ASTM D972-16 standard, developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), provides a test method for determining the mass loss due to evaporation of lubricating greases and oils for applications where evaporation loss is a factor. Evaporation loss data is obtained at any temperature between 100 and 150 degrees Celsius.
The loss of volatile substances from greases and oils adversely affects the original performance characteristics of a lubricant. This can therefore be an important factor in evaluating a lubricant for a particular use. Such volatile substances are considered as contaminants in the environment where the lubricant is used. However, no correlation has been established between the results obtained from this test method and service performance.
The test is carried out at any agreed temperature between 100 degrees and 150 degrees. In order to determine the evaporation loss at temperatures above 150 degrees, the test method in the ASTM D2595 standard is applied.
Evaporation loss is an important property of lubricants, especially in applications where high temperatures occur. Lubricants are generally tested for percent evaporation loss at 22 degrees Celsius for 100 hours. The lower the percentage loss, the better the lubricant's performance.
Mineral oils have higher evaporation loss than semi and fully synthetic lubricants. This means that when using a semi- or fully synthetic lubricant it is not necessary to top up the oil level as often as when using mineral oil. They also leave less residue that damages the machine.
The volatility of a lubricant is a property that defines its evaporation loss properties. The more volatile a lubricant is, the lower the temperature at which smaller hydrocarbon molecules will be removed or evaporated. The loss of smaller hydrocarbons from the oil increases viscosity, especially in high temperature applications. The more volatile the lubricant, the higher its flammability. The oil film breaks in the cylinder, causing wear and increased oil consumption.
Among the numerous tests, measurements, analyses, and evaluations our organization provides for businesses in various sectors, we also offer standard testing services for evaporation loss of lubricating greases and oils under the ASTM D972-16 standard, thanks to our trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.
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