4.1 This practice is typically used to obtain in-service lubricating grease samples from machinery.

4.2 In this practice, a consistent and repeatable method is outlined for obtaining trendable samples from the following applications including motor-operated valves, gearboxes, pillow-block bearings, electric motors, exposed bearings, open gears, or failed grease-lubricated components. This allows for analysis and inspection of in-service lubricating grease that aids in predicting the life and condition of the grease-lubricated component. This information can be combined with other technologies such as infrared imaging, vibration analysis, and ultrasonic vibration analysis to predict when a machine may fail. The knowledge gained by the aforementioned analyses, in addition to the knowledge gained from the in-service lubricating grease analysis and inspection, may allow for more overall uptime by aiding in the prediction of grease-lubricated component failures as part of a predictive maintenance schedule. The prediction of a failing grease-lubricated component will also improve the level of safety of all who work around the component.

1.1 This practice covers the method to obtain a trendable in-service lubricating grease sample from the following configurations including motor-operated valves, gearboxes, pillow-block bearings, electric motors, exposed bearings, open gears, or failed grease-lubricated components.

1.2 In some cases, it may be necessary to take more than one sample from a piece of equipment to obtain more trendable results. Examples of this could be a large bearing that does not fully rotate, such as a slew bearing, or one in which sufficient mixing does not otherwise occur.

1.3 Samples taken in the above manner may need to be mixed to form a more homogeneous sample. This may also be true of other samples such as those taken from open face bearings.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. The exception to this is a standard English units thread for which there is no metric equivalent.

Note 1: The standard pipe thread referred to is the national pipe thread tapered thread.

1.5 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.

1.6 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.