ASTM D2596-20 PDF
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St ASTM D2596-20
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Ст ASTM D2596-20
Original standard ASTM D2596-20 in PDF full version. Additional info + preview on request
Full title and description
ASTM D2596-20 — Standard Test Method for Measurement of Extreme-Pressure Properties of Lubricating Grease (Four‑Ball Method). This method specifies the four‑ball extreme‑pressure (EP) procedure used to determine load‑carrying properties of greases, including the load‑wear index (LWI), weld point, and last nonseizure load (LNSL).
Abstract
ASTM D2596-20 defines a laboratory procedure (the four‑ball EP test) for evaluating extreme‑pressure characteristics of lubricating greases. The test produces three principal results — load‑wear index, weld point and last nonseizure load — that are commonly used for specification, quality control, and comparative ranking of greases. Values are reported in SI units; the method notes exclusions (for example certain silicone‑based greases) and leaves safety practices to the user.
General information
- Status: Active (current edition).
- Publication date: Published / last updated June 10, 2020 (designated D2596-20).
- Publisher: ASTM International.
- ICS / categories: 75.100 — Lubricants, industrial oils and related products.
- Edition / version: D2596-20 (2020 edition).
- Number of pages: 6 pages (official ASTM publication).
Scope
This standard covers determination of the load‑carrying properties of lubricating greases using the four‑ball extreme‑pressure tester. It requires three primary determinations: the load‑wear index (previously called Mean‑Hertz Load), the weld point (load at which the test balls weld), and the last nonseizure load (LNSL). The method sets out required apparatus, specimen preparation, test sequence and reporting conventions, and states that SI units are the standard. Some grease types (for example certain silicone‑based fluids) are excluded from applicability.
Key topics and requirements
- The four‑ball EP test arrangement: three stationary balls clamped in a cup and a fourth rotating ball pressed against them under controlled load.
- Primary outputs: Load‑Wear Index (LWI), Weld Point, and Last Nonseizure Load (LNSL).
- Test parameters and machine requirements are defined in the procedure (speed, applied load increments, test duration and temperature are specified for repeatability); the EP determination is commonly reported at the standard rotational speed set in the method.
- Specimen conditioning, ball material and finish, and cleaning/inspection procedures are prescribed to minimise variability.
- Results are intended for specification and comparative use; the standard notes that laboratory results do not necessarily predict in‑service performance.
- Safety, environmental and health practices are not exhaustively covered in the method — users must establish relevant precautions.
Typical use and users
Used by lubricant formulators, grease manufacturers, quality control laboratories, specification writers, tribologists and industry purchasers to rank and specify extreme‑pressure performance of greases. Typical applications include product development, batch verification, supplier comparisons and inclusion in material specifications for bearings, gears and other heavily loaded contacts.
Related standards
Commonly used alongside or referenced with other tribology and grease test methods, for example ASTM D2266 (four‑ball wear), ASTM D4172 (four‑ball wear for oils), ASTM D2509 (Timken OK Load), ISO 20623 (four‑ball method, European conditions), and various ASTM grease property tests (penetration, dropping point, oil separation). Military and industry specifications that call out grease EP performance may reference D2596.
Keywords
ASTM D2596-20, extreme‑pressure, EP, four‑ball, load‑wear index, weld point, LNSL, lubricating grease, grease specification, tribology, grease testing
FAQ
Q: What is this standard?
A: ASTM D2596-20 is the ASTM test method that defines the four‑ball procedure for measuring extreme‑pressure (EP) properties of lubricating greases, producing LWI, weld point and LNSL results.
Q: What does it cover?
A: It specifies apparatus, sample preparation, test sequence and reporting for the four‑ball EP test so laboratories can determine and compare the load‑carrying (extreme‑pressure) characteristics of greases. The method uses SI units and states exclusions (e.g., certain silicone‑fluid greases).
Q: Who typically uses it?
A: Grease formulators, QC and R&D labs, tribologists, procurement/specification engineers and standards authors who need repeatable laboratory measures of a grease’s extreme‑pressure performance.
Q: Is it current or superseded?
A: The D2596-20 edition (designated 2020) is the current published edition (active) as of February 20, 2026. Revisions and work items to update the method have been initiated (for example work items to address machine ramp rates and editorial updates were opened in 2023 and 2025), but the 2020 edition remains the operative standard until a new edition is formally published.
Q: Is it part of a series?
A: D2596 is part of the suite of ASTM lubricant and grease test methods maintained by Committee D02; it is commonly used together with other grease tests (e.g., D2266, D4172, D2509) and with related ISO/IEC methods for grease and lubricant evaluation.
Q: What are the key keywords?
A: Four‑ball, extreme‑pressure, load‑wear index, weld point, LNSL, grease, EP testing, ASTM D2596-20.