5.1 By quantifying the concentration of total ferrous debris, this test method provides a direct indication of wear in the machinery by enabling the user to pinpoint when there is a deviation from the normal buildup of ferrous debris shed by the machinery or when the concentration of ferrous debris has exceeded safe operating limits. Specific guidance regarding such procedures may be found in Guides D7669, D7720, and D7874.

5.2 This test method can be performed on-site and can be utilized as a particle-size insensitive, minimum sample preparation alternative to laboratory-based screening for abnormal machinery conditions due to the presence of wear debris by means of ferrography as described in Practice D7690, or elemental analysis methods such as atomic emission spectrometry, described in Test Methods D5185 and D6595.

1.1 This test method describes a means for quantitative determination of the concentration of ferrous debris in lubricants and greases.

1.2 This test method provides a determination of the concentration of ferrous debris in the lubricant or grease from a nominal 0 mg/kg to 10 000 mg/kg (1 % by mass) or greater.

1.3 This test method is applicable to all types of lubricating fluids (API Group I-V) and greases sampled from machinery and other mechanical equipment, including reciprocating engine oils, turbine oils, hydraulic oils, gear oils, and bearing greases.

1.4 This test method describes a means by which a sample of lubricant or grease is placed in a magnetometer apparatus, which determines the concentration of ferrous debris and provides these readings directly to the operator without further calculation.

1.5 This test method is applicable to in-service lubricants and greases at any stage of degradation.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7 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.

1.8 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.