Presentation Profile
Advancements in Measuring Dropping Point of Greases
Currently Scheduled: 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Room: Exhibit Hall Entrance
Main Author
Raj Shah - Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Gerasimos Dimitratos - Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Abstract:
The project, “Automation of the Manual Dropping Point Test,” aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of grease dropping point measurements performed according to ASTM D2265. Over the past year, a team composed of interns from Farmingdale State College, conducted experimental testing to evaluate alternative temperature sensing methods for the traditional manual procedure. Experiments were carried out using a multitude of different grease samples, with each test repeated multiple times to assess repeatability and reproducibility. Three temperature sensing approaches were initially investigated, mercury thermometers, thermistors, and k-type thermocouples. Through vigorous testing and analysis, thermistors were eliminated due to inconsistent performance. K-type thermocouples demonstrated improved accuracy and precision when compared with conventional thermometer readings, leading the team to focus further development on thermocouple-based measurement. Custom components were designed and manufactured to accommodate different thermocouple configurations and to study the effects of sensor positioning and minor mechanical variations on measurement consistency. The collected data were used to evaluate agreement with traditional thermometer measurements and to assess reproducibility across repeated trials. In parallel, the project is exploring automation of dropping point detection through a camera-based monitoring system capable of identifying the moment the drop occurs. Current work focuses on evaluating commercially available cameras that can integrate with existing laboratory equipment. Rather than designing a new instrument, this work emphasizes the development of a retrofit solution compatible with current industry instrumentation.
