Presentation Profile
Significance of Measuring the Water Washout Characteristics of Lubricating Greases
Currently Scheduled: 10/11/2022 - 1:10 PM - 1:30 PM
Room: Convention Center Walkway
Main Author
Raj Shah - Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Thoren Giannuzzi - Dept. Of Chemical Engineering, State Univ. of NY, Stony Brook
- Anthony Schevon - Dept. Of Chemical Engineering, State Univ. of NY, Stony Brook
Abstract:
The newly designed Water Washout test, whichfully conforms to ASTM D1264, is used to measure the ability of a grease to remain intact in a bearing when the sample is either submerged or sprayed with a water jet. This test measures the percent of grease removal within a specified period of time under predetermined conditions. The results obtained from the water washout test are applied to the selection process of grease in order to enhance the life of a machine by allowing outdoor machinery to require less frequent replacement and repair. When exposed to water contamination, such as by rain, mechanical failures occur at an increased rate through corrosion, oxidation, rust, or bearing failure. These mechanical failures can be partially avoided if a proper water-resistant grease is used, which adheres better to surfaces and can thus prevent certain corrosion and rust. Grease can be water-resistant in three alternative ways, either by being water repellent, insoluble or by mixing with water without any changes to the chemical or physical properties. The newly designed Water Washout Tester finds the percentage of grease washed out from a ball bearing within an hour when under constant pressure from a water stream, thus the standard technique can be used to compare a variety of greases for how well they can withstand water exposure. This poster will showcase the usage of the water washout test and the importance of the test when applied to the life of a machine.
