Grease testing using Koehler instruments
Penetration tests are performed on lubrication greases
to determine their consistency and shear stability.
Sometimes the penetration tests are done before and
after the grease has been worked, using devices such
as the Grease Worker and Roll Stability. All three
devices are shown here.
Product Overview – Koehler Digital Penetrometer
The Koehler digital penetrometer is available with accessories for testing a wide range of samples. The microprocessor control provides a full range of measurement and reporting options, and operation is simplified by four user-programmable presets. A standard cone or needle is released from a penetrometer and allowed to drop freely into the sample for a specified interval at constant temperature. The depth of penetration of the cone or needle into the sample is measured in tenths of a millimetre by the penetrometer.
• Tests the consistency of lubricating greases, petroleum waxes, bitumens, pastes, creams and other solid to semi-solid products
• Automatically timed operator programmable penetration measurements
• Motorised placement of the penetrator on the sample surface
• Large LCD to display all functions
• RS232 port for data transfer
• Full measurement range of 0-620 in 1⁄10mm scale or 1⁄100mm scale
• Rechargeable battery or AC operation
• Large, removable base accommodates grease worker cups and other ASTM and non-standard sample containers
• Complete selection of penetrometer cones, needles and accessories for petroleum products testing and for a wide range of other applications
• Conforms to all ASTM, IP, ISO 9001 and related specifications for penetrometers.
The penetrometer defaults to the standard ASTM interval of 5.0 seconds, or the operator may program a different interval in the range between 0.1 and 9999.9 seconds (in 0.1 second increments). A curing or temperature stabilisation period may also be programmed by the operator which delays the release of the penetrator into the sample. All selected parameters are retained in memory and automatically repeated in subsequent tests until changed by the operator. Separate keypad controls for each parameter simplifies the operation. Both penetration and delay intervals count down on a large, easy to read LCD on the head of the unit.
K95500/K95590 - Digital Penetrometer
Product Overview - Koehler Mechanical Grease Worker
The Koehler Mechanical Grease Worker is available as a single or double unit and is used for “worked penetration’’ and “prolonged worked penetration” tests to determine the consistency of lubricating greases.
The Grease Worker consists of single or dual steel ASTM grease workers mounted on a sturdy base and driven by a powerful gear reduction motor. The units meet ASTM specifications for stroke length and rate.
Conforms to the specifications of:
ASTM D217, D4950; IP 50; ISO 2137; DIN 51804; FTM 791-311, 791-313*
*Requires substitution of 270-hole grease worker (K18030)
Drive Motor: fan cooled gear reduction type, 1⁄3hp (single-unit model) or 1⁄2 hp (dual-unit model)
The units are equipped with a presetting electronic counter that automatically shuts off the drive motor after any desired number of strokes up to 99,999.
Steel grease workers have threaded cup and cover, and steel plunger plate with shaft and handle that connects to an eccentric cam on the drive unit. An accessory dial thermometer inserts in plated vent cock.
Spring loaded tightening clamps hold grease workers securely on base, and steel pins in the base facilitate disassembly of grease workers after testing.
1 Power Switch – This switch controls the power to the entire unit. When the power switch is in the ON position, the grease workers are activated and put in motion.
2 Digital Counter – Each stroke of the grease worker will result in a deduction in number from the counter. The counter is comprised of individual set point buttons and a reset/preset button.
3 Oil Reservoir Plug – For shipping purposes, the oil reservoir is stoppered with a solid brass plug. Before operation of the grease worker this plug must be removed and replaced with a vented plug that comes equipped with the instrument in an accessories package.
4 Ventcock – For ventilation of pressure that can build within the grease worker. The ventcock can also be used as a port for taking temperature measurements of the grease in the test cup using the accessory dial thermometer, K18022.
5 Cover Assembly – Attached to mechanical drive motor hub via handle and shaft. Complete assembly consists of handle, shaft, plunger plate and ventcock. The cover assembly can be easily removed for replacement with either standard ASTM grease worker or FTM313 (270-hole plunger) grease worker.
6 Grease Cup – For holding the test sample. The grease cup can be removed or inserted by loosening or tightening holding clamps with supplied Hex key
7 Holding Clamp Blocks – To securely hold the grease cup in place during testing. Can be loosened and tightening using the supplied Hex key. Shipped with a fitted safety cover that switches off the instrument if lifted.
Product Overview - Koehler Roll Stability Tester
The Koehler Roll Stability Tester provides an indication of shear stability of lubricating greases by testing the change in worked penetrations after two hours in the roll stability tester.
The Koehler Roll Stability apparatus for shear stability tests on lubricating greases rotates steel test cylinders at 10 or 165 rpm in a thermostatically controlled environment at temperatures of up to 93.3°C.
The drive system is powered by a rugged ratio motor, and interchangeable drive chain sprockets are easily accessible for converting unit to either operating speed.
• Conforms to ASTM D1831 and related specifications
• Single, double and four-unit models
• Microprocessor programmable high accuracy temperature control
• Maximum Temperature: 200°F (93°C)
• Temperature Control Stability: ±1°C
• High Temperature model available
The microprocessor PID control provides quick temperature stabilisation without overshoot and is protected by an over-temperature control circuit that interrupts power should the temperature exceed a programmed cut-off point.
Dual LED displays provide actual and setpoint temperature values in °C/°F format.
A balanced cast aluminium fan and 1200W heater provide efficient, uniform heat distribution and a dial thermometer in the hinged cover displays the chamber temperature.
The heaters and drive chain mechanism are shielded for operator safety.
The insulated steel cabinet and base are finished with a durable polyurethane enamel finish.
High Temperature Model – A high temperature model is also available which expands the temperature range to 160°C. Tests can be conducted using the high temperature model unit for time/temperature specifications beyond those listed in D1831.
Communications software (RS232, etc.), ramp-to-set and other enhanced features are available as extra cost options.
K183XX - Roll Stability Tester
Penetration testing equipment for measuring grease consistency, shear stability and
worked penetration performance in accordance with international lubricant testing standards.
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