The Grease Life Performance and Leakage Tester is an advanced instrument designed to evaluate the durability and leakage characteristics of lubricating greases in accordance with ASTM test specifications. It simulates real-world operating conditions using a modified front wheel hub, spindle, and bearing assembly housed within a constant temperature oven.
The system is driven by a 1/4 hp variable-speed motor and offers fully automated control of test functions. It continuously monitors and displays critical parameters, including motor torque, rotational speed (rpm), chamber temperature, spindle temperature, test cycle time, and total elapsed time. This enables precise and reliable assessment of grease performance over extended operating cycles.
The instrument automatically terminates the test when grease degradation results in increased motor torque reaching a calibrated endpoint. A built-in 30-second delay circuit prevents false termination due to temporary torque fluctuations at the start of the test cycle, ensuring accurate and dependable results.
The constant temperature oven is insulated and equipped with a 1200W heater and a balanced 1/20 hp circulation fan to ensure uniform heat distribution. The system is designed for ease of use, featuring sliding access doors and a movable platform that allows the drive motor to swing away for convenient access to the spindle assembly.
The modified spindle and hub assembly is engineered to match critical dimensions of a 1971 Chevy II configuration and includes a thermocouple, bearing thrust loading device, and anodized aluminum grease collector for precise measurement and collection.
All controls and monitoring systems are housed in a separate cabinet, enhancing operational safety and convenience. In addition to ASTM-compliant testing, the system allows users to define custom test parameters for specialized in-house evaluations.
Ideal for lubricant manufacturers, automotive research labs, and quality control facilities, this tester provides accurate insights into grease life performance and leakage tendencies under controlled conditions.
