Dropping Point Apparatus

JBFRXMYL

Brand: Koehler Instruments

Category: Tribology

Industry: Material Science & Chemistry, Petroleum & Petrochemicals

The Dropping Point Apparatus is a precision-engineered analytical system designed to determine the dropping point of lubricating greases for identification, quality control, and performance evaluation.

Conforming to ASTM D566, D4950, and related international standards, this apparatus provides accurate temperature control up to 550°F (288°C) using a borosilicate glass oil bath, 750W variable heater, and 1/40 HP mechanical stirrer, ensuring precise and uniform heating throughout each test cycle.

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The Dropping Point Apparatus is used to determine the temperature at which a lubricating grease passes from a semi-solid to a liquid state under controlled heating conditions. This temperature, known as the dropping point, serves as a key indicator of a grease’s thermal stability, composition, and service temperature limit.

The instrument consists of a precision-machined brass dropping point cup, a test cell assembly, and a borosilicate glass oil bath (400 mL). The cup’s conical interior ensures consistent sample flow, while the refractory top plate and reference dial heater assembly guarantee controlled heat transfer.

A 750W stepless control heater provides adjustable heating rates, while a 1/40 HP mechanical stirrer maintains bath uniformity for precise temperature gradients.
The test cell can accommodate thermometer corks, depth gauge, and metal support rods, facilitating stable and repeatable setup.

The system complies with ASTM D566, D4950, IP 132, ISO 2176, and equivalent global standards, making it ideal for grease manufacturers, QA laboratories, and research institutions.

Conforms to ASTM D566, D4950, IP 132, ISO 2176, DIN 51801, and NF T 60-102 standards
Determines the dropping point of lubricating greases up to 550°F (288°C)
Precision-machined test cup and borosilicate glass oil bath (400 mL) for accurate heat transfer
Variable stepless heater (750W) for precise control of heating rate
Mechanical stirrer (1/40 HP) ensures uniform bath temperature
Refractory top plate and reference dial heater assembly for stable thermal operation
Compact design with minimal maintenance and high repeatability
Compatible with high flash-point silicone bath fluids (>400°C)
Includes complete test cell assembly and essential accessories for immediate operation
Ideal for grease testing, quality control, and R&D analysis

Accurate. Reliable. Essential for grease quality assurance.
The Dropping Point Apparatus provides precise determination of grease thermal behavior, ensuring compliance with global standards like ASTM D566 and D4950.
With its uniform heating system, precision-machined components, and easy-to-use design, it is the trusted choice for petroleum labs, QA departments, and research institutions worldwide—delivering reproducible results every time.

Parameter	Specification
Conformance Standards	ASTM D566, D4950; IP 132; ISO 2176; DIN 51801; NF T 60-102
Maximum Temperature	550°F (288°C)
Bath Capacity	400 mL Borosilicate Glass Bath
Bath Medium	High-temperature heat transfer fluid (Silicone fluid recommended)
Heater Rating	750W, variable stepless control
Stirrer Motor	1/40 HP
Temperature Control	Manual, with reference dial and refractory plate
Electrical Requirements	115V 60Hz, 6.5A (Single Phase) or 220–240V 50/60Hz, 3.4A (Single Phase)
Construction Material	Stainless steel and brass test components
Safety Features	High-temperature resistant bath and electrical protection

Determination of dropping point of lubricating greases
Identification and quality control of grease formulations
Evaluation of thermal stability and maximum service temperature
Routine testing in lubricant and grease manufacturing plants
Research in tribology and material science laboratories
Compliance verification for ASTM, ISO, IP, and DIN standards

Dropping Point Apparatus