Presentation Profile
Modernizing Dropping Point Testing Using Thermocouples
Currently Scheduled: 10/15/2025 - 12:50 PM - 1:10 PM
Room: South Lobby
Main Author
Dr. Raj Shah - Koehler Instrument Company
- Angelina Precilla - Koehler Instrument Company
- Gerasimos Dimitratos - Koehler Instrument Company
- Mojan Jafaripour - Koehler Instrument Company
Abstract:
The dropping point indicates the temperature at which a grease transitions from a semi-solid to a liquid state. This is an important parameter, since a grease that is fully liquid no longer possesses the same lubrication properties. This poster introduces enhancements to the traditional ASTM D2265 dropping point test. By incorporating a High Temperature Dropping Point Apparatus and by replacing the traditionally used mercury thermometers with thermocouples, we were able to create a safer and more accurate testing method. By modernizing the temperature sensing component, the new method not only maintains the same setup, heating rate, and sample requirements stipulated in ASTM D2265, it also greatly improves measurement precision, repeatability, and operator safety. Thermocouples allow for remote monitoring, which significantly lowers exposure risk to high-temperature equipment for an extended period of time. Thermocouples eliminate the use of mercury, a hazardous material linked to central nervous system, kidney, and liver damage. Thermocouples offer superior durability, longer service life, and reduced calibration needs. Furthermore, the redesigned setup eliminates the need for sample height alignment, significantly reducing errors that can be caused by the operator.
