1.1This test method covers measurement, in poises, of the apparent viscosity of lubricating greases in the temperature range from −54 to 38°C (−65 to 100°F). Measurements are limited to the range from 25 to 100 000 P at 0.1 s⁻¹ and 1 to 100 P at 15 000 s⁻¹.

Note 1-At very low temperatures the shear rate range may be reduced because of the great force required to force grease through the smaller capillaries. Precision has not been established below 10 s⁻¹.

1.2This standard uses inch-pound units as well as SI (acceptable metric) units. The values stated first are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. The capillary dimensions in SI units in Fig. A1.1 and Fig. A1.2 are standard.

1.3WARNING-Mercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury containing products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details and EPA's website for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury containing products into your state or country may be prohibited by law.

1.3.1In addition, temperature measuring devices such as liquid-in-glass thermometers, thermocouples, thermistors, or platinum resistance thermometers that provide equivalent or better accuracy and precision, that cover the temperature range for ASTM thermometer 49C, may be used.

1.4This 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.