An American National Standard

Designation: D 1092 – 05

Standard Test Method for

Measuring Apparent Viscosity of Lubricating Greases1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 1092; 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 (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope 3.1.1 apparent viscosity, n—of a lubricating grease is the

1.1 This test method covers measurement, in poises, of the ratio of shear stress to shear rate calculated from Poiseuille’s
apparent viscosity of lubricating greases in the temperature equation, and is measured in poises (see 10.1).
range from −54 to 38°C (−65 to 100°F). Measurements are 3.1.2 capillary, n—For the purpose of this method, a capil-
limited to the range from 25 to 100 000 P at 0.1 s−1 and 1 to lary is any right cylindrical tube having a length to diameter
100 P at 15 000 s−1. ratio of 40 to 1.
3.1.3 shear rate, n—the rate at which a series of adjacent
NOTE 1—At very low temperatures the shear rate range may be reduced layers of grease move with respect to each other; proportional
because of the great force required to force grease through the smaller
to the linear velocity of flow divided by the capillary radius,
capillaries. Precision has not been established below 10 s−1.
and is thus expressed as reciprocal seconds.
1.2 This standard uses inch-pound units as well as SI
(acceptable metric) units. The values stated first are to be 4. Summary of Test Method
regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for 4.1 The sample is forced through a capillary by means of a
information only. The capillary dimensions in SI units in Fig. floating piston actuated by the hydraulic system. From the
A1.1 and Fig. A1.2 are standard. predetermined flow rate and the force developed in the system,
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the the apparent viscosity is calculated by means of Poiseuille’s
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the equation. A series of eight capillaries and two pump speeds are
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- used to determine the apparent viscosity at sixteen shear rates.
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- The results are expressed as a log-log plot of apparent viscosity
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. versus shear rate.
2. Referenced Documents 5. Significance and Use
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 5.1 Apparent viscosity versus shear rate information can be
D 88 Test Method for Saybolt Viscosity useful in predicting pressure drops in grease distribution
D 217 Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating systems under steady-state flow conditions at constant tem-
Grease perature.
D 3244 Practice for Utilization of Test Data to Determine
Conformance with Specifications 6. Apparatus
6.1 The assembled pressure viscometer consists of four
3. Terminology
major divisions, the power system, the hydraulic system, the
3.1 Definitions: grease system (described in the annex and shown in Fig. 1),
and a bath of optional design. Fig. 2 is a photograph of the first
three divisions as commonly used at room temperature. This
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on form of the apparatus can be used with a cylindrical insulated
Petroleum Products and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
D02.G0 on Lubricating Grease. tank 178 mm (7 in.) in diameter and 508 mm (20 in.) deep. The
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2005. Published November 2005. Originally bath medium may be kerosene or alcohol cooled manually with
approved in 1950. Last previous edition approved in 1999 as D 1092–99.
2
dry ice. Alternatively the grease system, the grease and
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
hydraulic system, or all three major divisions can be built into
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on any liquid or air bath that will cover the temperature range and
the ASTM website. maintain the grease at test temperature 60.25° C (60.5°F).

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

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 D 1092 – 05

FIG. 1 Schematic Drawing of Apparatus

the equilibrium pressure slowly, making it advisable to have a sample of

several pounds available.

7.2 Generally no special preparation of the sample is nec-

essary.
NOTE 3—The apparatus works the samples to some extent as they pass
through the capillary. Somewhat better precision is obtained if they are
previously worked as described in Test Methods D 217. Working of some
greases may cause aeration.
NOTE 4—It is desirable to filter some greases through a 60-mesh screen
to prevent plugging the No. 8 capillary. Follow prudent laboratory practice
to keep equipment cleaned and flushed before use.

8. Calibration and Standardization

8.1 To calibrate the hydraulic system, remove the grease
cylinder and replace it with a needle valve. Select a hydraulic
oil of about 2000 cSt (2000 mm2/s) viscosity at the test
temperature. Fill the system with hydraulic oil and circulate the
oil until it is free of air bubbles. At atmospheric pressure,
quickly place a 60-mL Saybolt receiving flask (Test Method
D 88), under the outlet and start a timer. Determine the delivery
time for 60 mL and calculate the flow rate in cubic centimetres
per second assuming 1 mL equal to 1 cm3. Repeat this
observation at 500, 1000, 1500 psi (3.45, 6.89, 10.4 MPa) and
at sufficient pressures above 1500 psi to develop a calibration
FIG. 2 Photograph of Apparatus curve of the type as shown in Fig. 3. The developed curve of
the type is used to correct flow rates when grease is dispensed.
7. Sampling Repeat the calibration at intervals to determine if wear is
7.1 A single filling of the grease cylinder requires about changing the pump flow.
0.223 kg (1⁄2 lb) of grease which is the minimum size sample. 8.2 An alternative procedure for the calibration of the
NOTE 2—It is possible for an experienced operator to complete the 16 hydraulic system is the measurement of the rate of flow of the
single determinations with a single filling. However, some samples reach test grease. To cover the desired range of shear rates, flow rates

2
 D 1092 – 05
10. Calculation
10.1 Calculate apparent viscosity of the grease as follows:
h~apparent viscosity! 5 F/S (1)
where F is the shear stress, and S is the shear rate. Therefore:
ppR2/2pRL
h 5 F/S 5 5 ppR4/~8Lv/t! 5 P68944pR4/~8Lv/t! (2)
~4v/t!/pR3

where:
p = pressure dynes/cm2,
L = capillary length, cm,
P = observed gage pressure, psi (multiply by 68944 to
FIG. 3 A Typical Pump Calibration Curve
convert to dynes per square centimetre),
R = radius of capillary used, cm, and
v/t = flow rate, cm3/s.
10.2 Calculations may be reduced to a minimum by prepar-
over an approximate range of pressure are determined. Any
ing a table of 16 constants, one for each capillary and shear rate
suitable means of measuring the rate of grease flow may be
(Table 1). For example, viscosity with No. 1 capillary and the
used.
40-tooth gear is given as follows:
9. Procedure h 5 P~observed!68944pR4/~8Lv/t! or PK ~1–40! (3)
9.1 Charge the sample so as to reduce inclusion of air to a where:
minimum. Soft greases may be poured into the cylinder or
K ~1240! 5 68944 p R4/~8Lv/t (4)
drawn up by vacuum; heavy samples must be hand packed.
When filling the cylinder by vacuum, remove the capillary end 10.3 Also calculate the shear rates as follows:
cap and place the piston flush with the open end and then insert S 5 ~4v/t!/pR3 (5)
into the sample. Apply vacuum to the opposite end of the
cylinder until the cylinder is fully charged with grease. This Correct the flow rate to correspond to the observed pressure
must be facilitated by tapping with a wooden block. Replace by reference to Fig. 3. Calculate 16 shear rates for the eight
the capillary end cap and fill the upper end of the cylinder capillaries and two flow rates. This calculation need not be
above the piston with hydraulic oil. repeated for each run since it will remain constant until
9.2 Fill the entire hydraulic system with hydraulic oil. recalibration of the pump indicates a revision.
Disconnect, invert and fill the gage and gage connections with 10.4 Plot a curve of apparent viscosity versus shear rate on
oil. With the entire hydraulic system connected and completely log-log paper, as shown in Fig. 4.
filled with oil, adjust the temperature of the sample to the test NOTE 6—Shear stresses also can be calculated by multiplying apparent
temperature 60.25°C (60.5°F) as determined by a thermo- viscosities by their corresponding shear rates. For solving various prob-
couple inserted in the capillary end cap. Operate the pump until lems involving the steady flow of greases, shear stress-shear rate relation-
oil flows from the gage connection on the viscometer before ships may be plotted on appropriate charts. Instructions on the use of these
charts are given in the article by Rein and McGahey, “Predicting Grease
reconnecting the gage. With the entire viscometer assembled, Flow in Large Pipes,” NLGI Spokesman, April 1965.
circulate hydraulic oil with the return valve open until all trace
of air is eliminated. 11. Precision and Bias
9.2.1 The time to attain test temperature varies with the 11.1 Due to the nature of the results, the precision of this
bath. At −54°C (−65°F) the grease in an unstirred liquid bath test method was not obtained according to RR:D02-1007,
should be ready to test in 2 h. Air baths can take as long as 8 “Manual on Determining Precision Data for ASTM Methods
h. An ASTM Thermometer 74F in the bath serves as a on Petroleum Products and Lubricants.”3 The precision of this
convenient secondary means of measuring the temperature at test method as determined by statistical examination of inter-
–54°C (−65°F). In an air bath the thermometer must be within laboratory results is as follows:
25.4 mm of the capillary. 11.2 The data in 11.2.1 and 11.2.2 should be used for
9.3 With No. 1 capillary in place and the 40-tooth gear judging the acceptability of results (95 % confidence) accord-
connected, operate the pump with the return valve closed until ing to the concept of precision as given in Practice D 3244.
equilibrium pressure is obtained. Record the pressure. Change 11.2.1 Repeatability—The difference between two test re-
to the 64-tooth gear and again establish equilibrium. Record sults, obtained by the same operator with the same apparatus
and relieve the pressure. Replace the No. 1 capillary with under constant operating conditions on identical test material,
subsequent ones and repeat these operations until tests have would in the long run, in the normal and correct operation of
been run with all capillaries at both flow rates. With some soft the test method, exceed the values given in Table 2 only in one
or hard greases, it cannot be practical to use all of the case in twenty.
capillaries.
NOTE 5—It may be necessary to refill the cylinder with fresh grease 3
Filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained by requesting
when all 16 determinations are to be made. Research Report RR:D02-1007.

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 D 1092 – 05
TABLE 1 Suggested Data Sheet for Recording Test Results (With Illustrative Test Values)
Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. 2 Grease Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 25°C
..
Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov. 1, 1948 Operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . R.S.
1 2 3 4A 5B 6A 7C
Apparent
Observed Shear Rate, Shear Stress,
K = 68944 Viscosity,
Capillary Gear Pressure, S, s−1 = dynes per sq
pR 4/(8Lv/t) n poises,
P, psi (4v/t)/pR3 cm = n 3 S
=P3K
1 40 25.5 28.10 716 15 10 740
2 40 38.3 6.83 267 61 16 300
3 40 48.8 3.61 176 120 21 100
4 40 63.5 1.90 120 230 27 800
5 40 96.5 0.89 86 480 41 300
6 40 125 0.58 72.6 755 54 800
7 40 286 0.139 39.8 3 140 125 000
8 40 546 0.0464 25.3 9 320 235 500

1 64 29.5 17.60 520 24 12 470

2 64 45.8 4.27 195 98 19 100
3 64 60 2.26 135.5 195 26 400
4 64 82.3 1.19 97.9 370 36 250
5 64 130 0.556 72.4 770 55 800
6 64 165 0.363 59.9 1 220 73 200
7 64 384 0.087 33.4 5 020 167 500
8 64 720 0.029 20.9 14 900 311 000
A
Values in this column are predetermined.
B
Column 3 times Column 4.
C
Column 5 times Column 6.

FIG. 4 Typical Chart for Apparent Viscosity versus Shear Rate

11.2.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single the long run, in the normal and correct operation of the test
and independent results obtained by different operators work- method, exceed the values given in Table 2 only in one case in
ing in different laboratories on identical test material would, in twenty.

4
 D 1092 – 05
TABLE 2 Precision upon curve values of apparent viscosity at the six shear rates.
Repeat- Repro- A separate curve was drawn for each run.
Temp, ability ducibility
Sample
°F
11.3 Bias—Since there is no accepted reference material
% of mean suitable for determining the bias for the procedure in Test
Smooth, NLGI 2, Diester Oil −65 7 12 Method D 1092, bias has not yet been determined.
Smooth, NLGI 2, SAE 20 Oil 77 6 19 11.4 There is no research report on Test Method D 1092
Fibrous, NLGI 1, SAE 20 Oil 77 6 23
Viscous, NLGI 1, SAE 90 Oil 77 7 30 because this test method was developed before research report
guidelines were instituted, and are no longer available.
12. Keywords
11.2.3 Reproducibility of the curve drawing operation var- 12.1 apparent viscosity; capillary; lubricating grease; shear
ies from 5 to 8 % for the above samples. These data are based rate; viscosity

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. APPARATUS FOR GREASE SYSTEM

A1.1 Apparatus—Assembled pressure viscometer appara- A1.5 Grease Cylinder Assembly, consisting of cylinder,
tus consists of four major parts: the power system, the floating piston, and caps constructed to conform to the toler-
hydraulic system, the grease system as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. ances shown in Fig. A1.1 with the piston moving the entire
2 and constructed as described in A1.2-A1.6, and a bath of length of the cylinder without appreciable friction. The cylin-
optional design. der shall be constructed to withstand a working pressure of
4000 psi (27.5 MPa). The exterior features and method of
A1.2 Power System, consisting of a 1⁄3-hp, 1750-rpm induc-
fastening may be modified.
tion motor coupled to a 200 to 1 speed reducer. Interchangeable
40 and 64-tooth gears are used to drive the hydraulic pump.
A1.6 Capillaries—Capillaries, eight of stainless steel and
A1.3 Hydraulic System, consisting of a gear pump fitted conforming to dimensions shown in Fig. A1.2, shall comprise
with saddle mount and 42-tooth drive gear,4 a hydraulic oil a set. Critical dimensions are the interior radius and length. It
reservoir having a capacity at least equal to that of the grease is essential that the radius of each be approximately that shown
cylinder and fitted with a 50-mesh screen shall be provided. in Fig. A1.2, and that the length be 40 times the actual
The pump and grease cylinder shall be connected with high diameter. Exterior features of the mounting can be modified,
pressure valves and fittings as shown in Fig. 1. Means shall be provided proper protection and connection to the grease
provided for connecting interchangeable test gages. cylinder cap are provided.

A1.4 Gages—Since the gages are used only in the middle A1.6.1 Capillaries can be calibrated by any suitable method
range, several are desirable to cover a wide variety of greases. (see Appendix X1). It should be recognized, however, that it
Four gages having ranges from 0 to 60 (0.41), 0 to 100 (0.689), may not be possible to recalibrate a correctly prepared capillary
0 to 600 (4.14), and 0 to 4000 (27.58) psi (MPa) have been to the same precision used in its preparation, that is its length
found suitable. Alternatively, the gages may be manifolded, be 40 times its diameter 6 0.002 cm, due to inherent
provided proper means of eliminating air from the system is imprecision in the original calibration method. It is suggested
employed (Fig. 1). that the original measurements and calculations used to con-
struct the capillary be retained.
A1.6.2 The bores of new capillaries should be examined
4
Nichols/Zenith pump BPB 4776-58L cc/rev with QF planetary drive is visually. Those capillaries with bores obviously rough or out of
satisfactory. This is available from Nichols/Zenith Co., 48 Woerd Avenue, Waltham,
MA 02154. Steady flow chart paper can be obtained from NLGI, 4635 Wyondotte round are to be rejected. Capillaries which are damaged in use
St., Kansas City, MO 64112-1596. also are to be rejected.

5
 D 1092 – 05

Metric Equivalents
Inches Millimetres
⁄
1 16 1.59
⁄
7 32 5.56
1⁄ 2 12.70
3⁄ 4 19.05
1 1 ⁄8 28.58
1 1 ⁄4 31.75
1.7640 44.806
1.7645 44.818
1.7650 44.831
1.7665 44.869
1 7 ⁄8 47.63
2 1 ⁄8 53.98
2 1 ⁄2 63.50
9 7 ⁄8 250.83
11 279.40

NOTE—Adhere to standard manufacturing tolerance in the construction

of this grease cylinder.
FIG. A1.1 Grease Cylinder Assembly

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 D 1092 – 05

Capillary A (Diameter)
Number in Centimetres
(Approximate)
1 0.380
2 0.240
3 0.185
4 0.150
5 0.120
6 0.100
7 0.065
8 0.045
Metric Equivalents
Inches Millimetres
3⁄ 4 19.05
1⁄ 2 12.07

NOTE—Adhere to standard manufacturing tolerance in construction of

this capillary.
FIG. A1.2 Capillary Construction

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. CALIBRATION OF CAPILLARIES

X1.1 There are several methods to calibrate the capillaries mercury at the temperature used. Calculate the radius in
required for this test method. Capillaries are usually obtained centimetres.
from a supplier already calibrated. If the user wishes to
produce capillaries himself, the methods outlined below will X1.3 An alternative calibration method that can be used to
serve. Users should refer to A1.6 of the annex for information check the small capillary radius consists of using an oil of
on recalibration of an existing capillary. known viscosity in place of the grease sample and following
the procedure described in Section 9. Calculate the radius, R, as
X1.2 To calibrate the capillary, measure the length to the follows:
nearest 0.02 mm by means of a micrometer. Close one end of
R 5 [~8Lhv/t!/pP68944]1 / 4 5 [~Lhv/t!/27076P]1 / 4 (X1.1)
the capillary, flush with the end, and fill it with mercury. The
smallest capillaries may cause difficulty during the mercury where:
filling operation. This can be minimized by drawing out a glass L = capillary length, cm.
tube, one end of which can be inserted into the capillary. Drain h = viscosity of oil used at test temperature, P,
the mercury into a tared beaker and weigh to the nearest 1 mg. v/t = flow rate, mL/s, determined in pump calibration, and
Calculate the volume by dividing the weight by the density of P = gage pressure, psi.

7
 D 1092 – 05

X2. ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURES FOR MEASURING APPARENT VISCOSITY AT LOW SHEAR RATES

CONSTANT-PRESSURE TECHNIQUE measured in cubic centimeters per second for determining the
shear rate. Make three determinations at a given pressure and
X2.1 Apparatus temperature, provided the flow rate appears to be constant. If
X2.1.1 Grease Cylinder Assembly as shown in Fig. A1.1 varying flow rates are noted, more determinations should be
and the No. 1 capillary. The grease cylinder and piston made until the flow rate appears to be constant. Readings
assembly is described in A1.5. should be taken in order of decreasing pressures. Average the
X2.1.2 Nitrogen Cylinder or a suitable source of dry com- results of the flow rate in cubic centimetres per second.
pressed air, regulator, and vent valve.
X2.1.3 Calibrated Gages to measure pressure. Usually 0 to X2.3 Precision and Bias
15 psi (0.10 MPa) and 0 to 30 psi (0.21 MPa) Bourdon gages X2.3.1 Precision and bias have not been determined for this
are sufficient. In lieu of the gages, a 1.8-m (70-in.) mercury test procedure.
manometer can be used.
X2.1.4 Constant-Temperature Bath or cold room for low- CONSTANT-FLOW TECHNIQUE
temperature determinations. Constant temperature room or
X2.4 Apparatus
bath for tests at 25°C (77°F).
X2.1.5 Buret, 10-mL with side arm, suitable connections, X2.4.1 The apparatus is essentially the same as described in
and a liquid (denatured alcohol) reservoir. It is generally Section 6 of the test method. A larger (No. 0) capillary (Note
unnecessary to compensate for a difference in temperature of X2.1) used in conjunction with the regular equipment permits
the alcohol in the reservoir and in the buret. For convenience, measurements at a shear rate of about 1 s−1. Because pressures
the buret can be outside the low-temperature bath. at low shear rates are low, care must be exercised to have the
X2.1.6 Flexible Tubing from the pressure gage to the apparatus calibrated and in good working condition to keep
cylinder. errors at a minimum.
X2.1.7 Stop Watch or other suitable timer. NOTE X2.1—Recommended dimensions for the No. 0 capillary are:
Diameter 9.525 6 0.025 mm (0.375 6 0.001 in.)
X2.2 Procedure Length 381.000 6 0.025 mm (15.000 6 0.001 in.)
X2.2.1 Carefully fill the grease cylinder and capillary to
minimize entrapped air. Fill the system beyond the capillary X2.5 Procedure
with alcohol. X2.5.1 The procedure, using a larger capillary, is the same
X2.2.2 Check for gas leaks by applying pressure. as described in 9.1 and 9.2 of the method.
X2.2.3 Allow the system to stabilize for 2 h at the desired X2.5.2 For shear rates significantly below 1 s−1, a modified
temperature before making a determination. variable speed pumping system is recommended. However,
X2.2.4 Bring the system up to the desired pressure by data obtained in cooperative testing indicate extrapolation from
adjusting the pressure regulator and vent. (Some trial and error 1 s−1 down to 0.1 s−1 may be feasible.
may be necessary to determine the pressure ranges to give the
desired flow rates for different greases and temperatures.) The X2.6 Precision and Bias
grease will be forced through the capillary displacing an equal X2.6.1 Precision and bias have not been determined for this
volume of alcohol which then goes into the buret. This can be test method.

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