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Understanding the purpose of ASTM tests for corrosion resistance of lubricating greases

4 min read | 13 December 2022

ASTM standard tests are widely recognized as industry benchmarks that validate the effectiveness of lubricating greases in safeguarding machinery under demanding conditions. These tests are essential for selecting the right greases that function efficiently as rust and corrosion protectors.

The Importance of ASTM Tests in Lubricant Selection

With a multitude of greases available on the market, each offering different lubrication properties, choosing the right grease is vital to keep machine components and bearings operating smoothly. Industrial machinery often faces extreme conditions such as high temperatures, rapid speeds, and heavy loads, which can accelerate wear and tear. Additionally, environmental factors like exposure to water, corrosive chemicals, fumes, and high humidity further challenge the durability of machinery components.

ASTM standard tests help manufacturers and users evaluate the performance of lubricating greases, ensuring they provide the necessary protection against corrosion while maintaining lubrication efficiency. At Molygraph, we have developed our own stringent testing methods based on ASTM standards to assess the performance of our greases in real-world applications.

Molygraph’s Rigorous ASTM-Based Testing Methods

To guarantee that our greases offer superior corrosion protection and performance, Molygraph employs the following ASTM tests:

1. ASTM D6138 - EMCOR Rust Test

This test evaluates the rust resistance of lubricated bearings under simulated operational conditions. Cleaned and lubricated bearings are partially submerged in water and subjected to a speed of 83 ± 5 rpm, alternating between running and stopping for one week. After the test period, the bearings are cleaned, examined, and rated based on the extent of corrosion observed.

2. ASTM D1743 - Corrosion Preventive Test

In this test, lubricated bearings are run under a thrust load for 60 ± 3 seconds to distribute the lubricant uniformly. Water is then introduced, and the bearings are stored for 48 ± 0.5 hours at 52 ± 1°C with 100% relative humidity. Post-storage, the bearings are inspected for signs of corrosion, ensuring the lubricant’s effectiveness in preventing rust.

3. ASTM D4048 - Copper Corrosion Test

This test assesses the chemical resistance of lubricating greases. A copper strip is immersed in a grease sample and heated at 100 ± 1°C for 24 hours. After the heating period, the strip is washed and compared against standard charts to determine the level of copper corrosion, providing insights into the grease’s protective capabilities.

The purpose behind these tests is to ensure that we formulate the high-performing greases that offer the best corrosion protection in the harshest environments.

Molygraph makes a wide range of High-Performance Specialty Industrial Lubricants that deliver the best value with longer operating life, lower maintenance needs, and higher productivity for your machinery and components.

Get in touch with us by calling us at +91 81044009925 or sending an email to sales@molygraph.com.

You can also explore our range of rust preventive oils and other specialty lubricant products that can serve your industry needs brilliantly - https://www.molygraph.com/products?page=1


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ASTM standard tests are widely recognized as industry benchmarks that validate the effectiveness of lubricating greases in safeguarding machinery under demanding conditions. These tests are essential for selecting the right greases that function efficiently as rust and corrosion protectors.

The Importance of ASTM Tests in Lubricant Selection

With a multitude of greases available on the market, each offering different lubrication properties, choosing the right grease is vital to keep machine components and bearings operating smoothly. Industrial machinery often faces extreme conditions such as high temperatures, rapid speeds, and heavy loads, which can accelerate wear and tear. Additionally, environmental factors like exposure to water, corrosive chemicals, fumes, and high humidity further challenge the durability of machinery components.

ASTM standard tests help manufacturers and users evaluate the performance of lubricating greases, ensuring they provide the necessary protection against corrosion while maintaining lubrication efficiency. At Molygraph, we have developed our own stringent testing methods based on ASTM standards to assess the performance of our greases in real-world applications.

Molygraph’s Rigorous ASTM-Based Testing Methods

To guarantee that our greases offer superior corrosion protection and performance, Molygraph employs the following ASTM tests:

1. ASTM D6138 - EMCOR Rust Test

This test evaluates the rust resistance of lubricated bearings under simulated operational conditions. Cleaned and lubricated bearings are partially submerged in water and subjected to a speed of 83 ± 5 rpm, alternating between running and stopping for one week. After the test period, the bearings are cleaned, examined, and rated based on the extent of corrosion observed.

2. ASTM D1743 - Corrosion Preventive Test

In this test, lubricated bearings are run under a thrust load for 60 ± 3 seconds to distribute the lubricant uniformly. Water is then introduced, and the bearings are stored for 48 ± 0.5 hours at 52 ± 1°C with 100% relative humidity. Post-storage, the bearings are inspected for signs of corrosion, ensuring the lubricant’s effectiveness in preventing rust.

3. ASTM D4048 - Copper Corrosion Test

This test assesses the chemical resistance of lubricating greases. A copper strip is immersed in a grease sample and heated at 100 ± 1°C for 24 hours. After the heating period, the strip is washed and compared against standard charts to determine the level of copper corrosion, providing insights into the grease’s protective capabilities.

The purpose behind these tests is to ensure that we formulate the high-performing greases that offer the best corrosion protection in the harshest environments.

Molygraph makes a wide range of High-Performance Specialty Industrial Lubricants that deliver the best value with longer operating life, lower maintenance needs, and higher productivity for your machinery and components.

Get in touch with us by calling us at +91 81044009925 or sending an email to sales@molygraph.com.

You can also explore our range of rust preventive oils and other specialty lubricant products that can serve your industry needs brilliantly - https://www.molygraph.com/products?page=1


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Anand Engineers Pvt. Ltd, Plot no. 66, MIDC, Road No 13, Andheri East, Mumbai 400093. India


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E: sales@molygraph.com