A More Precise Determination of Gear Oil Viscosity at Low Temperatures

Low temperature fluidity of gear oils is an important fluid property as it directly impacts the useful life of a gear set.This paper compares low temperature fluidity measurement precision of ASTM D6821 and ASTM D2983.Both tests are identical in the way they thermally condition the sample prior to viscosity measurement.While ASTM D2983 is cited in many current specifications,ASTM D6821 offers users and formulators a more accurate estimate of gear oil low temperature fluidity.The primary benefit in using ASTM D6821 is better precision.ASTM D6821 accomplishes this by automating the steps from prior to preheat through to viscosity measurement at end of test.