ASTM D2266 Wear Preventive Characteristics of Lubricating Grease

Scope:

The wear preventive characteristics of greases are determined by the test method ASTM D2266. The four-ball wear-test method can be used to determine the relative wear-preventing characteristics of greases under test settings, but the relative ratings may differ if the test parameters are modified. A link between the four-ball wear test and field service has yet to be established. Extreme Pressure (EP) and Non-Extreme Pressure (Non-EP) greases cannot be distinguished using this test method.

Procedure:

The ASTM D2266 test method proceeds with three steel balls with a diameter of 12 in. (12.7 mm) being fastened together and covered with the lubricant to be tested. A fourth 12 in. diameter steel ball, referred to as the top ball, is driven into the cavity formed by the three clamped balls with a force of 40 kgf (392 N) for three-point contact. The lubricating oil specimen is heated to 75 degrees Celsius (167 degrees Fahrenheit), and then the top ball is rotated at 1200 revolutions per minute for 60 minutes. The average size of the scar diameters worn on the three lowest clamped balls is used to compare lubricants.

Video 01: ASTM D2266 Wear Preventive Characteristics of Lubricating Grease

Specimen Size:

Specimen size should be as per the requirements. In this ASTM D2266 test, test balls with a diameter of 0.5 in. (12.7 mm) are taken.

Data:

The wear scars are measured up to an accuracy of ±0.01mm by following two different methods. 

Conclusion:

ASTM D2266 test method is specifically important for the quality assurance and durability check of greases. A detailed analysis is performed and wear preventive characteristics are determined. The top service provider in this regard is the Infinita Lab which ensures efficient and reliable testing.