Testing was conducted using an SRV
testing machine and followed Test Method ASTM D 5707.
The testing involves the application of pressure on a small steel ball which is being spun
on a steel disk. As the pressure and temperature are increased, the ball develops wear
scars similar to the scars developed on a four-ball wear test for oils. The protection
provided by each grease can be measured by the number and size of the scars left on the
ball. Two separate testing protocols were used. Passing or failing was determined by wear
scar size and a maximum acceptable friction limit.
The first test involved less pressure, slower speeds, less heat and
was conducted for a shorter amount of time. This test was intended to simulate normal
operating conditions for most machinery. The fully synthetic competitors, Permatex Super Lube and Mobil 1, were
both on the brink of failure by the end of the first test. Mystic SX-6, Lubriplate 1200-2,
and the three AMSOIL Greases all performed well.
The second series of tests simulated more severe operating
conditions. The graph illustrates the results of the second series of tests. This test featured higher
pressure, higher temperatures, faster speeds and lasted for a longer time period. Permatex Super Lube and Mobil 1 were
unable to maintain an acceptable level of friction and failed the test. The semi-synthetic
Mystic SX-6 could not withstand the hotter, faster, and
more heavily loaded conditions and also failed the test. The Lubriplate grease, which is a lithium
complex mineral oil grease, did maintain an acceptable co-efficient of friction, although
its ability to prevent wear suffered. All three AMSOIL
greases provided a superior level of friction reduction
and protection. Even though it passed the severe series of tests, the Lubriplate grease was unable to prevent
wear as well as the AMSOIL greases. During the second series of tests, the Lubriplate grease developed wear scars at
38,000 psi of friction. The AMSOIL greases didn't develop wear scars until much later at, 42,800 psi of
friction. Additionally, the tests indicated that the wear in the Lubriplate grease began at the start of the second test. This could mean wear in machinery would begin
as soon as conditions became severe.
The overall performance of the AMSOIL greases was excellent. They
provided superior protection and friction reduction under both normal and severe operating
conditions. The AMSOIL greases can be counted on to remain in the places that they are
needed and to provide stable overall lubrication in even the most severe service
conditions. A small scar under the conditions maintained in these tests could mean a much
larger problem in any industrial or automotive application. Bearing and component wear is
one of the chief causes of equipment failure. The costs associated with repair and
replacement of bearings and machine components can be avoided by providing machinery with
the necessary lubrication to avoid excessive friction. These tests prove once again that AMSOIL greases are the best way to
protect and prolong the
life of industrial and automotive equipment.
