Testing that Reaches the World

Clark Testing offers comprehensive grease testing services to evaluate the performance, durability, and chemical integrity of lubricating greases used in industrial and automotive applications. Our Analytical and Mechanical Testing Laboratories are equipped with advanced instrumentation and test rigs to assess grease formulations under both standard and real-world operating conditions.

Analytical Grease Testing Capabilities

Our analytical testing evaluates the chemical composition, stability, and physical properties of grease, helping to identify contamination, oxidation, wear characteristics, and formulation consistency. These tests are critical for predictive maintenance, quality assurance, and product development.

Key Analytical Tests Include:

• Wear Particle Analysis
  Analytical Ferrography identifies ferrous debris and wear modes in grease samples to diagnose potential mechanical issues.
• Contamination Detection
  Microscopy and spectroscopy techniques detect water, particulates, or cross-contaminating lubricants.
• Chemical Degradation
  Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) reveals chemical changes such as oxidation, additive depletion, or contamination.
• Base Oil Viscosity
  Determines lubricating capacity and film strength.
  Methods: ASTM D445, ISO 3104, DIN 51562, IP 71
• Dropping Point
  Identifies the temperature at which grease releases its first drop of oil, indicating thermal limits.
  Methods: ASTM D566, ISO 2176, DIN 51801, IP 396
• Copper Corrosion Protection
  Assesses compatibility with copper and yellow metals in bearing materials.
  Methods: ASTM D4048, ISO 2160, DIN 51811, IP112/154
• Cone Penetration (Consistency)
  Measures grease consistency and classification (NLGI rating).
  Methods: ASTM D217, ISO 2137, DIN 51580, IP 50
• Water Resistance (Washout Test)
  Evaluates the grease’s ability to stay in place under wet operating conditions.
  Methods: ASTM D1264, ISO 11009, DIN 51807/2, IP 215
• Corrosion Protection (EMCOR Test)
  Assesses dynamic corrosion resistance in bearing environments.
  Method: ISO 11007
• Oxidation Stability
  Measures resistance to oxidation over time.
  Method: ASTM D942
• Oil Separation
  Evaluates the tendency of oil to separate from the thickener under storage or pressure.
  Methods: ASTM D6184, ASTM D1742
• Elemental Analysis
  ICP or XRF spectroscopy detects metallic additives and contaminants.

Mechanical Grease Testing

Clark Testing performs mechanical testing to simulate grease behavior under load, shear, and temperature, replicating actual service conditions in bearings, journals, and rotating assemblies.

Key Mechanical Tests Include:

• Four-Ball Wear Test
  Measures wear scar diameter to evaluate friction and wear resistance.
  Method: ASTM D2266
• Four-Ball EP (Extreme Pressure) Test
  Determines weld point—the maximum pressure before lubricant failure.
  Method: ASTM D2596
• Roll Stability Test
  Measures consistency change after mechanical stress.
  Method: ASTM D1831
• Timken OK Load
  Indicates the maximum load at which the grease prevents scoring.
  Method: ASTM D2509
• Grease Mobility at Low Temperatures
  Assesses flow performance in cold environments.
  Method: ASTM D1478
• Leakage Tendency
  Measures grease leakage from bearings under defined conditions.
  Methods: ASTM D4290, ASTM D1263

Advanced Grease Testing: Accelerated Aging & Environmental Simulation

To support R&D and qualification of grease in demanding environments, Clark offers customized test programs using real-world simulations:

• Bearing Rig Testing
  Evaluates grease under actual bearing loads and speeds.
• High-Speed Dynamometer Testing
  Tests grease under high RPM and torque for propulsion and industrial systems.
• Environmental Cycle Testing
  Simulates grease exposure to fluctuating temperature, humidity, and load cycles for durability studies.

Why Choose Clark Testing?

With decades of experience in tribology, lubrication engineering, and product qualification, Clark Testing is a trusted partner to OEMs, lubricant formulators, and industrial end-users. Our test programs adhere to ASTM, ISO, DIN, and IP standards, and we offer tailored protocols to meet specific application requirements across aerospace, rail, defense, heavy industry, and automotive sectors.