ASTM D1478-11(2017)e1
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Torque of Ball Bearing Grease
Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Torque of Ball Bearing Grease
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method was developed using greases having very low torque characteristics at −54 °C (−65 °F). Specifications for greases of this type commonly require testing at this temperature. Specifications for greases of other types can require testing at temperatures from −75 °C to −20 °C (−100 °F to 0 °F).
5.2 This test method has proved helpful in the selection of greases for low-powered mechanisms, such as instrument bearings used in aerospace applications. The suitability of this test method for other applications requiring different greases, speeds, and temperatures should be determined on an individual basis.
5.3 Test Method D4693 may be better suited for applications using larger bearings or greater loads. However, greases having such characteristics that permit torque evaluations by either this test method or Test Method D4693 will not give the same values in the two test methods (even when converted to the same torque units) because the apparatus and test bearings are different.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the extent to which a grease retards the rotation of a slow-speed ball bearing by measuring starting and running torques at low temperatures (below −20 °C (0 °F)).
1.1.1 Torque measurements are limited by the capacity of the torque-measuring equipment.
Note 1: When initially developed, the original dynamometer scale limited the torque capacity to approximately 30 000 g·cm; the original dynamometer scale is obsolete, however. The suggested replacement scale has not been evaluated; it could extend the limit to approximately 75 000 g·cm.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.
1.2.1 Exceptions—The values given in parentheses are for information only. The exception is torque values that are given in cgs-metric units, which are universally used in grease specifications.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard and warning statements, see 6.1.1, 7.2, 7.4, 8.7, and 8.11.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
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´1
Designation: D1478 − 11 (Reapproved 2017)
Standard Test Method for
Low-Temperature Torque of Ball Bearing Grease
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D1478; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
ε NOTE—Reference to withdrawn ADJD3336 was removed editorially in June 2017.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the extent 2.1 ASTM Standards:
to which a grease retards the rotation of a slow-speed ball D4693TestMethodforLow-TemperatureTorqueofGrease-
bearing by measuring starting and running torques at low Lubricated Wheel Bearings
temperatures (below−20°C (0°F)).
2.2 ANSI/AFBMA Standard:
1.1.1 Torque measurements are limited by the capacity of
Standard20-1987 Radial Bearings of Ball, Cylindrical,
the torque-measuring equipment.
Roller, and Spherical-Roller Type—Metric Designs (AF-
BMA Code 20BCO2JO)
NOTE 1—When initially developed, the original dynamometer scale
limited the torque capacity to approximately 30000g·cm; the original
dynamometerscaleisobsolete,however.Thesuggestedreplacementscale
3. Terminology
has not been evaluated; it could extend the limit to approximately
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
75000g·cm.
3.1.1 low-temperature torque, n—the torque in g·cm re-
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
quired to restrain the outer ring of a No. 6204 size open ball
standard.
bearing lubricated with the test grease while the inner ring is
1.2.1 Exceptions—The values given in parentheses are for
rotated at 1r⁄min 6 0.05r⁄min at the test temperature.
information only.The exception is torque values that are given
3.1.2 running torque, n—the 15s average value of the
in cgs-metric units, which are universally used in grease
torque after rotation for a specified period of time (60min).
specifications.
3.1.3 starting torque, n—the maximum torque measured at
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
the start of rotation.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
4. Summary of Test Method
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard
4.1 ANo. 6204 open ball bearing is packed completely full
and warning statements, see 6.1.1, 7.2, 7.4, 8.7, and 8.11.
of the test grease and cleaned off flush with the sides. The
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
bearing remains stationary while ambient temperature is low-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ered to the test temperature and held there for 2h. At the end
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
of this time, the inner ring of the ball bearing is rotated at
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1r⁄min 6 0.05r⁄min while the restraining force on the outer
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
ring is measured.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1 2
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Subcommittee D02.G0.05 on Functional Tests - Temperature. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved May 1, 2011. Published June 2017. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1957. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as D1478–11. DOI: Available from AFBMA (Anti-Friction Bearing Manufacturers’ Association),
10.1520/D1478-11R17E01. 1101 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036–4303.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
D1478 − 11 (2017)
4.2 Torque is determined by multiplying the restraining test bearing and wall of the box shall be not more than 0.5°C
forcebytheradiusofthebearinghousing.Bothstartingtorque (1°F) above the test temperature.)
and torque after 60min of rotation (running torque) are 6.1.2 Drive Assembly, as shown in Fig. 2, including drive
determined. motor, gear reductor, and test shaft.The test shaft shall receive
the test bearing against a shoulder having a diameter smaller
5. Significance and Use
than the inner race shoulder of the bearing. Use a spacer
washerofthesamediameterandatleast1.6mm( ⁄16in.)thick,
5.1 This test method was developed using greases having
alongwithatestbearinglocknut,toclamptheinnerringofthe
very low torque characteristics at−54°C (−65°F). Specifica-
test bearing to the 1r⁄min shaft.
tions for greases of this type commonly require testing at this
6.1.3 Housing (Cage)—Bearing housing, load disk, load
temperature. Specifications for greases of other types can
ring, clamp rod, and associated parts made in accordance with
require testing at temperatures from −75 °C to −20 °C
Fig.3.AdjustthemassofPart2A(loaddisk)tobe454g 63g
(−100°F to 0°F).
(1lb). Alternatively, if Part 2B (load ring) is used, adjust the
5.2 This test method has proved helpful in the selection of
mass of Part 2B to be 454g 6 3g (1lb).
greases for low-powered mechanisms, such as instrument
6.1.4 Torque-Measuring Equipment—A calibrated dyna-
bearings used in aerospace applications. The suitability of this
mometerscale havingarangeofapproximately0kgto10kg,
test method for other applications requiring different greases,
0N to 100N, or 0lb to 25lb, with a large face diameter
speeds, and temperatures should be determined on an indi-
(approximately 200mm (8in.), or larger) and a suitable
vidual basis.
connecting cord of sufficient length (either braided metallic
5.3 Test Method D4693 may be better suited for applica-
cable fitted with a ring or loop on each end or a 15kg (35lb)
tions using larger bearings or greater loads. However, greases
test string saturated with silicone oil).
having such characteristics that permit torque evaluations by
NOTE 2—Substitution of other suitable torque-measuring equipment,
either this test method orTest Method D4693 will not give the
such as a strain-gage load cell, is permitted.
same values in the two test methods (even when converted to
6.1.5 Spindle and Grease Cup, as shown in Fig. 4 and Fig.
the same torque units) because the apparatus and test bearings
5, respectively.
are different.
7. Materials
6. Apparatus
7.1 Test Bearing—No. 6204 size open ball bearing (Stan-
6.1 Fig. 1 shows a suitable torque test apparatus assembly.
dard20-1987, AFBMA Code 20BCO2JO) containing eight
It consists of the components described in 6.1.1 – 6.1.5.
7.9mm ( ⁄16in.) balls, separated by a two-piece, pressed steel
6.1.1 Low-Temperature Box—Any well-insulated box of at
3 3
cage, and manufactured to ABEC-3 (Annular Bearing Engi-
least 0.03m (1ft ) interior volume, in which the air tempera-
neering Committee) tolerances with the standard radial clear-
ture can be controlled and maintained within 0.5°C (1°F) of
ance of 0.021mm to 0.028mm (0.0008in. to 0.0011 in.).
the test temperature. (Warning—Direct impact on the test
bearing by an air stream colder than the test temperature must
7.2 Mineral Spirits, Reagent Grade. (Warning—
be avoided to preclude erroneous results. Baffles should be
Combustible. Health Hazard.)
used where necessary to prevent such direct impact. The drive
7.3 Purity of Reagents—Reagent grade chemicals shall be
mechanism can be mounted externally as shown in Fig. 2,or
used in all tests. Unless otherwise indicated, it is intended that
the entire drive mechanism can be inserted directly into the
all reagents shall conform to the specifications of the commit-
box. When the drive is mounted externally, the temperature
tee onAnalytical Reagents of theAmerican Chemical Society,
measuredatapointonthesurfaceofthetestshaftbetweenthe
where such specifications are available.
7.4 n-Heptane,reagentgrademinimumpurity.(Warning—
Flammable. Health Hazard.)
The sole source of supply of the Dynamometer Scale, QDS-25 previously
known to the committee was R. Chatillon & Sons Inc., 83-28 Kew Gardens Rd.,
Kew Gardens, NY11415. However, it is understood that over time, this Dynamom-
eter Scale became obsolete, and it is no longer commercially available. If you are
aware of potential alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM
International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a
meeting of the responsible technical committee, which you may attend.
Supportingdata(copiesofcorrespondenceandtestdataregardingtheselection
ofthetestbearing)havebeenfiledatASTMInternationalHeadquartersandmaybe
obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1272. Contact ASTM Customer
Service at service@astm.org.
Reagent Chemicals, American Chemical Society Specifications, American
Chemical Society, Washington, DC. For Suggestions on the testing of reagents not
listed by the American Chemical Society, see Annual Standards for Laboratory
Chemicals, BDH Ltd., Poole, Dorset, U.K., and the United States Pharmacopeia
and National Formulary, U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc. (USPC), Rockville,
FIG. 1 Torque Test Apparatus Assembly MD.
´1
D1478 − 11 (2017)
FIG. 2 Drive (Top View)
FIG. 3 Cage Parts
8. Procedure when rotated between the fingers while applying light pressure
axially and then radially. Use the dynamometer to determine
8.1 Wash the selected test bearing thoroughly in mineral
the running torque at room temperature; note the average and
spiritsandrinseitinabeakerof n-heptane.Drythebearingfor
maximum running torque peaks. The average
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
´1
Designation: D1478 − 11 D1478 − 11 (Reapproved 2017)
Standard Test Method for
Low-Temperature Torque of Ball Bearing Grease
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D1478; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
ε NOTE—Reference to withdrawn ADJD3336 was removed editorially in June 2017.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the extent to which a grease retards the rotation of a slow-speed ball bearing
by measuring starting and running torques at low temperatures (below −20°C (0°F)).(below −20 °C (0 °F)).
1.1.1 Torque measurements are limited by the capacity of the torque-measuring equipment.
NOTE 1—When initially developed, the original dynamometer scale limited the torque capacity to approximately 30 000 g·cm; 30 000 g·cm; the original
dynamometer scale is obsolete, however. The suggested replacement scale has not been evaluated; it could extend the limit to approximately 75 000
g·cm.75 000 g·cm.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. The
exception is torque values that are given in cgs-metric units, which are universally used in grease specifications.
1.2.1 Exceptions—The values given in parentheses are for information only. The exception is torque values that are given in
cgs-metric units, which are universally used in grease specifications.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use. For specific hazard and warning statements, see 6.1.1, 7.2, 7.4, 8.7, and 8.11.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D4693 Test Method for Low-Temperature Torque of Grease-Lubricated Wheel Bearings
2.2 ANSI/AFBMA Standard:
Standard 20-1987 Radial Bearings of Ball, Cylindrical, Roller, and Spherical-Roller Type—Metric Designs (AFBMA Code
20BCO2JO)
2.3 ASTM Adjuncts:
Standard ball bearings (set of 5 ball bearings)
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 low-temperature torque, n—the torque in g·cm required to restrain the outer ring of a No. 6204 size open ball bearing
lubricated with the test grease while the inner ring is rotated at 11 r ⁄min 6 0.050.05 r r/min ⁄min at the test temperature.
3.1.2 running torque, n—the 15-s15 s average value of the torque after rotation for a specified period of time (60 min). (60 min).
3.1.3 starting torque, n—the maximum torque measured at the start of rotation.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
D02.G0.05 on Functional Tests - Temperature.
Current edition approved May 1, 2011. Published May 2011 June 2017. Originally approved in 1957. Last previous edition approved in 20072011 as
D1478D1478 – 11.–07. DOI: 10.1520/D1478-11. 10.1520/D1478-11R17E01.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from AFBMA (Anti-Friction Bearing Manufacturers’ Association), 1101 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036–4303.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
D1478 − 11 (2017)
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 A No. 6204 open ball bearing is packed completely full of the test grease and cleaned off flush with the sides. The bearing
remains stationary while ambient temperature is lowered to the test temperature and held there for 2 h. 2 h. At the end of this time,
the inner ring of the ball bearing is rotated at 11 r ⁄min 6 0.050.05 r r/min ⁄min while the restraining force on the outer ring is
measured.
4.2 Torque is determined by multiplying the restraining force by the radius of the bearing housing. Both starting torque and
torque after 60 min 60 min of rotation (running torque) are determined.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This test method was developed using greases having very low torque characteristics at −54°C (−65°F).at −54 °C (−65 °F).
Specifications for greases of this type commonly require testing at this temperature. Specifications for greases of other types can
require testing at temperatures from −75 to −20°C (−100 to 0°F).from −75 °C to −20 °C (−100 °F to 0 °F).
5.2 This test method has proved helpful in the selection of greases for low-powered mechanisms, such as instrument bearings
used in aerospace applications. The suitability of this test method for other applications requiring different greases, speeds, and
temperatures should be determined on an individual basis.
5.3 Test Method D4693 may be better suited for applications using larger bearings or greater loads. However, greases having
such characteristics that permit torque evaluations by either this test method or Test Method D4693 will not give the same values
in the two test methods (even when converted to the same torque units) because the apparatus and test bearings are different.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Fig. 1 shows a suitable torque test apparatus assembly.
It consists of the components described in 6.1.1 – 6.1.5.
3 3
6.1.1 Low-Temperature Box—Any well-insulated box of at least 0.03 m0.03 m (1 ft(1 ft ) interior volume, in which the air
temperature can be controlled and maintained within 0.5°C (1°F)0.5 °C (1 °F) of the test temperature. (Warning—Direct impact
on the test bearing by an air stream colder than the test temperature must be avoided to preclude erroneous results. Baffles should
be used where necessary to prevent such direct impact. The drive mechanism can be mounted externally as shown in Fig. 2, or
the entire drive mechanism can be inserted directly into the box. When the drive is mounted externally, the temperature measured
at a point on the surface of the test shaft between the test bearing and wall of the box shall be not more than 0.5°C (1°F)0.5 °C
(1 °F) above the test temperature.)
6.1.2 Drive Assembly, as shown in Fig. 2, including drive motor, gear reductor, and test shaft. The test shaft shall receive the
test bearing against a shoulder having a diameter smaller than the inner race shoulder of the bearing. Use a spacer washer of the
same diameter and at least 1.6 mm 1.6 mm ( ⁄16 in.) in.) thick, along with a test bearing lock nut, to clamp the inner ring of the
test bearing to the 11 r r/min ⁄min shaft.
6.1.3 Housing (Cage)—Bearing housing, load disk, load ring, clamp rod, and associated parts made in accordance with Fig. 3.
Adjust the mass of Part 2A (load disk) to be 454 6 3 g (1 lb). 454 g 6 3 g (1 lb). Alternatively, if Part 2B (load ring) is used, adjust
the mass of Part 2B to be 454 6 3 g (1 lb).454 g 6 3 g (1 lb).
FIG. 1 Torque Test Apparatus Assembly
´1
D1478 − 11 (2017)
FIG. 2 Drive (Top View)
FIG. 3 Cage Parts
6.1.4 Torque-Measuring Equipment—A calibrated dynamometer scale having a range of approximately 0 to 10 kg, 0 to 100
N, or 0 to 25 lb, 0 kg to 10 kg, 0 N to 100 N, or 0 lb to 25 lb, with a large face diameter (approximately 200 mm (8 in.), 200 mm
(8 in.), or larger) and a suitable connecting cord of sufficient length (either braided metallic cable fitted with a ring or loop on each
end or a 15-kg (35-lb)15 kg (35 lb) test string saturated with silicone oil).
The ball bearing has been standardized by Subcommittee D02.G0. Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Adjunct No. ADJD3336. Original adjunct
produced in 1984.
The sole source of supply of the Dynamometer Scale, QDS-25 previously known to the committee was R. Chatillon & Sons Inc., 83-28 Kew Gardens Rd., Kew Gardens,
NY 11415. However, it is understood that over time, this Dynamometer Scale became obsolete, and it is no longer commercially available. If you are aware of potential
alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the responsible
technical committee, which you may attend.
´1
D1478 − 11 (2017)
NOTE 2—Substitution of other suitable torque-measuring equipment, such as a strain-gage load cell, is permitted.
6.1.5 Spindle and Grease Cup, as shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, respectively.
7. Materials
7.1 Test Bearing—No. 6204 size open ball bearing (Standard 20-1987, AFBMA Code 20BCO2JO) containing eight 7.9 mm
7.9 mm ( ⁄16 in.) in.) balls, separated by a two-piece, pressed steel cage, and manufactured to ABEC-3 (Annular Bearing
Engineering Committee) tolerances with the standard radial clearance of 0.021 to 0.028 mm (0.0008 to 0.00110.021 mm to
,5
0.028 mm (0.0008 in. to 0.0011 in.).
7.2 Mineral Spirits, Reagent Grade. (Warning—Combustible. Health Hazard.)
7.3 Purity of Reagents—Reagent grade chemicals shall be used in all tests. Unless otherwise indicated, it is intended that all
reagents shall conform to the specifications of the committee on Analytical Reagents of the American Chemical Society, where
such specifications are available.
7.4 n-Heptane, reagent grade minimum purity. (Warning—Flammable. Health Hazard.)
8. Procedure
8.1 Wash the selected test bearing thoroughly in mineral spirits and rinse it in a beaker of n-heptane. Dry the bearing for
approximately 20 min 20 min in a warm oven (not over 100°C (212°F)).100 °C (212 °F)). Permit the bearing to cool to room
temperature before proceeding.
8.2 Lubricate the bearing with five drops of oil having a viscosity of 2828 cSt to 32 cSt at 100°C (135 to 150 SUS at
210°F).32 cSt at 100 °C (135 SUS to 150 SUS at 210 °F). The bearing shall then show no roughness or catching when rotated
between the fingers
...
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