This test method evaluates the percent viscosity loss of fluids resulting from physical degradation in the high shear nozzle device. Thermal or oxidative effects are minimized.

This test method may be used for quality control purposes by manufacturers of polymeric lubricant additives and their customers.

This test method is not intended to predict viscosity loss in field service in different field equipment under widely varying operating conditions, which may cause lubricant viscosity to change due to thermal and oxidative changes, as well as by the mechanical shearing of polymer. However, when the field service conditions, primarily or exclusively, result in the degradation of polymer by mechanical shearing, there may be a correlation between the results from this test method and results from the field.

1.1 This test method covers the evaluation of the shear stability of polymer-containing fluids. The test method measures the viscosity loss, in mm²/s and percent, at 100°C of polymer-containing fluids when evaluated by a diesel injector apparatus procedure that uses European diesel injector test equipment. The viscosity loss reflects polymer degradation due to shear at the nozzle. Viscosity loss is evaluated after both 30 and 90 cycles of shearing.

Note 1—This test method evaluates the shear stability of oils after both 30 and 90 cycles of shearing. For most oils, there is a correlation between results after 30 cycles and results after 90 cycles of shearing, but this is not universal.

Note 2—Test Method D 6278 uses essentially the same procedure with 30 cycles only instead of both 30 and 90 cycles. The correlation between results from this test method at 30 cycles and results from Test Method D 6278 has not been established.

Note 3—Test Method D 2603 has been used for similar evaluation of shear stability; limitations are as indicated in the significance statement. No detailed attempt has been undertaken to correlate the results of this test method with those of the sonic shear test method.

Note 4—This test method uses test apparatus as defined in CEC L-14-A-93. This test method differs from CEC-L-14-A-93 in the period of time required for calibration.

Note 5—Test Method D 5275 also shears oils in a diesel injector apparatus but may give different results.

Note 6—This test method has different calibration and operational requirements than withdrawn Test Method D 3945.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific warning statements are given in Section 8.