ASTM D3705-14(2019)

Standard Test Method for Misting Properties of Lubricating Fluids

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test provides a guide for evaluating the misting characteristics of oils for use in industrial mist lubrication systems. The degree of correlation between this test and service performance has not been fully determined.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the misting characteristics of lubricating fluids.  
Note 1: This test method should not be used to evaluate fluids containing solid additives such as graphite.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.2.1 Inch-pound units are used to describe the various tube fittings shown in Fig. 1.  
1.2.2 Inch-pound thread is shown in Fig. 2.  
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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific warning statements, see Sections 7 and 8.  
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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Nov-2019
• ICS: 75.100 - Lubricants, industrial oils and related products
• Technical Committee: D02 - Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Drafting Committee: D02.L0.01 - Metal Removal Fluids and Lubricants

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D3705-14 - Standard Test Method for Misting Properties of Lubricating Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM D4175-23a - Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4175-23e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2023
• Refers: ASTM D91-02(2017) - Standard Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2017
• Refers: ASTM D91-02(2012)e1 - Standard Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2012
• Refers: ASTM D91-02(2012) - Standard Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2012
• Refers: ASTM D235-02(2007) - Standard Specification for Mineral Spirits (Petroleum Spirits) (Hydrocarbon Dry Cleaning Solvent)
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2007
• Refers: ASTM D91-02(2007)e1 - Standard Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• Effective Date: 01-May-2007
• Refers: ASTM D91-02(2007) - Standard Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• Effective Date: 01-May-2007
• Refers: ASTM D235-02 - Standard Specification for Mineral Spirits (Petroleum Spirits) (Hydrocarbon Dry Cleaning Solvent)
• Effective Date: 10-Dec-2002
• Refers: ASTM D91-02 - Standard Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• Effective Date: 10-Jun-2002
• Refers: ASTM D235-99 - Standard Specification for Mineral Spirits (Petroleum Spirits) (Hydrocarbon Dry Cleaning Solvent)
• Effective Date: 10-Dec-1999

Overview

ASTM D3705-14(2019) - Standard Test Method for Misting Properties of Lubricating Fluids provides a systematic procedure for determining the misting characteristics of lubricating fluids. Developed by ASTM International, this test method is essential for assessing oils intended for industrial mist lubrication systems widely used in manufacturing and processing industries.

The primary aim of this standard is to provide a reliable and consistent approach to evaluate lubricants for their performance in mist applications. While the test offers valuable guidance, the correlation between laboratory test results and actual in-service performance has not been fully established.

Key Topics

• Test Scope: This standard covers lubricating fluids, specifically excluding those with solid additives, such as graphite.
• Units of Measurement: SI units are standard, with inch-pound units provided for specific manifold fittings and threads.
• Misting Evaluation: The procedure involves charging a mist generator with test oil, operating the system, and measuring oil outputs, reclassified oil, and line condensate to evaluate misting performance.
• Essential Definitions:
  • Line Condensate: Oil mist that coalesces in the distribution lines, not available for direct lubrication.
  • Reclassified Oil: Oil that forms larger droplets at lubrication points, providing lubrication as intended.
  • Stray Mist: Calculated as the residual mist not collected as line condensate or reclassified oil.
• Apparatus Details: Includes a mist generator, mist distribution manifold, reclassifier fittings, condensate collection bottles, temperature regulators, and necessary air supply equipment.
• Safety Precautions: Users are responsible for ensuring appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices.

Applications

Industrial Lubrication System Evaluation:
ASTM D3705 is widely used by lubricant manufacturers, maintenance professionals, and equipment designers to:

• Select Suitable Lubricating Oils: Ensures proper functioning of mist lubrication systems in high-speed manufacturing and other industrial environments.
• Quality Control: Provides a benchmark for quality assurance of lubricating fluids, verifying performance before deployment.
• Product Comparison: Enables side-by-side comparison between different lubricating fluids based on misting characteristics.
• System Optimization: Assists engineers in modifying system parameters or fluid formulations for optimal mist delivery and lubrication.

Limitations:

• Not suitable for fluids with solid additives.
• Results are based on laboratory methods and may not directly translate to in-service performance.
• Does not address all possible safety implications - adherence to local and industry safety guidelines is mandatory.

Related Standards

ASTM D3705 references several related standards that may be applicable in conjunction with this test method:

• ASTM D91: Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• ASTM D235: Specification for Mineral Spirits (Petroleum Spirits)
• ASTM D4175: Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants

Understanding the misting properties of lubricating oil is fundamental for the reliability and efficiency of mist lubrication systems. By following ASTM D3705-14(2019), industry professionals can make informed choices, improve equipment life, and ensure consistent lubrication under demanding operational conditions.

Standards Content (Sample)

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.
Designation: D3705 − 14 (Reapproved 2019)
Standard Test Method for
Misting Properties of Lubricating Fluids
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3705; 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.
1. Scope 3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer to
1.1 Thistestmethodcoversthedeterminationofthemisting
Terminology D4175.
characteristics of lubricating fluids.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
NOTE 1—This test method should not be used to evaluate fluids
3.2.1 line condensate, n—in a mist lubrication system, oil
containing solid additives such as graphite.
mist which has coalesced in the distribution lines and is not
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
available for lubrication purposes.
standard.
3.2.2 reclassified oil, n—in a mist lubrication system, lubri-
1.2.1 Inch-pound units are used to describe the various tube
cant that has coalesced into larger droplets at the points of
fittings shown in Fig. 1.
required lubrication.
1.2.2 Inch-pound thread is shown in Fig. 2.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—Mist lubrication systems are designed
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
so that the oil mist will coalesce in the appropriate area and
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
provide lubrication in the right place.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- 4. Summary of Test Method
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
4.1 The mist generator is charged with oil and installed in
For specific warning statements, see Sections 7 and 8.
the mist system. The unit is operated for 19 h; the mist
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
generator, line condensate bottles, and reclassified oil collector
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
are weighed before and after the test. The output from the
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
generator and percentages of reclassified oil, line condensate,
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
and stray mist are determined from changes in weight.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
NOTE 2—Line condensate is the commonly accepted term used to
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
describe the oil that coalesces in the mist distribution lines. In this test, the
oil that coalesces in the 38 mm (1 ⁄2 in.) tubing and the diagonal 19 mm
2. Referenced Documents ( ⁄4 in.) tubing is collected and weighed as line condensate. Oil that
coalesces in the vertical 19 mm ( ⁄4 in.) tubing becomes part of the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
reclassified oil.
D91 Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating
5. Significance and Use
Oils
D235 Specification for Mineral Spirits (Petroleum Spirits)
5.1 This test provides a guide for evaluating the misting
(Hydrocarbon Dry Cleaning Solvent) characteristics of oils for use in industrial mist lubrication
D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid
systems.Thedegreeofcorrelationbetweenthistestandservice
Fuels, and Lubricants performance has not been fully determined.
6. Apparatus
6.1 The basic system consists of the following:
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on
3,4
6.1.1 Oil Mist Generator,AlemiteNo.383802-B4 (Fig.1,
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee D02.L0.01 on Metal Removal Fluids and Lubricants.
item23)withspecialASTM-ASLEmisthead383803–B4(Fig.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2019. Published December 2019. Originally
approved in 1978. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as D3705 – 14. DOI:
10.1520/D3705-14R19. The sole source of supply of known to the committee at this time is Alemite
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or Co., Stewart Warner, 1826 West Diversey Parkway, Chicago, IL 60614.
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM If you are aware of alternative suppliers, please provide this information to
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consider-
the ASTM website. ation at a meeting of the responsible technical committee , which you may attend.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3705 − 14 (2019)
1 1
(1) 1 ⁄2C×1 ⁄2 in. MPT union (19) Air flow meter (L/s)
(2) 1 ⁄2 in. copper tubing, 3 in. long (20) Pressure gage, 7 kPa
(3) 1 ⁄2 in. C × C Return bend (21) Air filter
(4) 1 ⁄2 in. C Union (22) Oil mist head assembly with adjusting screw
1 3 1
(5) 1 ⁄2 × ⁄4×1 ⁄2in.C×C×Ctee (23) Oilmist generator
(6) 1 ⁄2 in. C 45 deg ftg Ell (straight ell) (24) Thermo-aire unit
(7) ⁄4 in. ftg × MPT adapter (25) Pressure gage, 4 kPa
1 1 3
(8) 1 ⁄2×1 ⁄2 × ⁄4in.C×C×Ctee (26) Thermocouple
(9) ⁄4 in. C 45 deg ftg ell (27) Impingement plate
1 3
(10) 1 ⁄2 ftg × ⁄4 in. C extended bushing (28) Collection box
(11) ⁄4 in. C Union (29) Lid for collection box
3 1
(12) ⁄4 in. ftg × C 45 deg ftg ell (30) 1 ⁄2 in. type “M” hard copper tubing, 41.3 mm
O.D. × 38.3 mm I.D.
3 3
(13) ⁄4 in. ftg × C 90 deg ftg ell (31) ⁄4 in. type “K” hard copper tubing, 22.2 mm
O.D. × 18.9 mm. I.D.
3 1
(14) ⁄4C× ⁄2 in. FPT adapter (32) Flexible hose
(15) ⁄2 in. reclassifier fitting
(16) Collector bottle, 1 L plastic with ⁄4 female NPT top
(17) Thermometer
(18) Pressure regulator with gage (2 mPa)
FIG. 1 Mist Distribution Manifold
D3705 − 14 (2019)
FIG. 2 Mist Reclassifier Fitting
1, item 22). The oil mist generator is attached to the manifold 6.1.5 Reclassified Oil Collector and Lid, as shown in Fig. 3
so that it may be easily disconnected in order to determine its and Fig. 4.
mass before and after the test.
6.2 Impingement Plate, as shown in Fig. 5.
6.1.2 Air Temperature Regulator, Alemite thermo-aire No.
4,5
383808–A4 (Fig. 1, item 24).
6.3 Balance, 20 kg capacity open pan, with 1 g sensitivity.
6.1.3 Mist Distribution Manifold, as shown in Fig. 1.
6.4 Air Supply, from a source capable of maintaining an air
6.1.4 Mist Reclassifier Fitting, (Fig. 1, item 15; Fig. 2). The
flow rate up to 2 dm /s. The air should be dry, oil-free, and
fitting must be drilled exactly as shown in Fig. 2. Any
filtered througha1µm filter. In order to ensure the driest and
deviations from the given hole size and pattern will negate the
cleanest air possible, it is recommended that a drying element
test.
andfilteringsystemsuchasadesicantcartridgebeaddedtothe
apparatus. The device chosen should maintain a flow rate of
The sole source of supply of Alemite thermo-aire unit No. 383808-A4 known
14 dm /s and provide air with a dew point not in excess of
to the committee at this time is Alemite Co., Stewart Warner, 1826 West Diversey
–40 °C.
Parkway, Chicago, IL 60614.
FIG. 3 Reclassified Oil Collector
D3705 − 14 (2019)
FIG. 4 Reclassified Oil Collector Lid
NOTE 3—The oil mist generator head and mist reclassifier fitting are
8.5 Disconnect the mist head and remove the oil adjustment
available from the Alemite Co. Orders should specify Special ASTM-
screw; rinse the head and screw with naphtha and blow dry.
ASLE mist head and reclassifier fitting.
NOTE 4—While not required, the addition of an oil bath temperature 8.6 Remove the reclassifier fitting and rinse it with naphtha;
regulator (Alemite 383807–A4) is recommended. Results will be more
examine the orifices for deposits or buildup. If necessary, the
consistent if the oil is kept at a constant temperature.
orifices may be cleaned with a fine pipe cleaner.
7. Reagents
9. Procedure
7.1 Stoddard Solvent, as specified in Specification D235
9.1 Break-In Period:
(Type 1). (Warning
...