5.1 The dropping point is useful to assist in identifying the grease as to type and for establishing and maintaining bench marks for quality control. The results are to be considered to have only limited significance with respect to service performance because dropping point is a static test.

5.2 Historical cooperative testing3 on conventional soap-thickened greases indicated ( RR:D02-1164) that, in general, dropping points by Test Method D2265 and Test Method D566 were in agreement up to 200 °C. In cases where results differ, there is no known significance. However, agreement between the manufacturer and purchaser as to test method used is advisable.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the dropping point of lubricating grease.

1.2  This test method uses mercury thermometers. WARNING—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—http://www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm—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. The responsible subcommittee, D02.G0.03, continues to explore alternatives to eventually replace the mercury thermometers.

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

1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.