AMSOIL Technical Question Thread

[joemac]

I pulled this from one of the links above. It states the test name and what it measures and how it relates to the end user. Is this what you are looking for?

ASTM D-4742 The Thin Film Oxygen Uptake Test (TFOUT) is used to evaluate an engine oil’s ability to resist heat and oxygen breakdown when contaminated with oxidized/nitrated fuel, water and soluble metals such as lead, copper, iron, manganese and silicon. The higher the number, the better the resistance to chemical breakdown.

ASTM D-5800 The NOACK Volatility Test determines the evaporation loss of lubricants in high temperature service. The more motor oils vaporize, the thicker and heavier they become, contributing to poor circulation, reduced fuel economy and increased oil consumption, wear and emissions. The lower the number, the better the resistance to vaporization.

ASTM D-97 The Pour Point Test determines the lowest temperature at which a lubricant will flow. The lower a lubricant’s pour point, the better protection it provides in low-temperature service.

ASTM D-2896 Total Base Number (TBN) is the measurement of a lubricant’s reserve alkalinity, which aids in the control of acids formed during the combustion process. The higher a motor oil’s TBN, the more effective it is in suspending wear causing contaminants and reducing the corrosive effects of acids over an extended period of time.

ASTM D-5293 The Cold Crank Simulator Test determines the apparent viscosity of lubricants at low temperatures and high shear rates. Viscosity of lubricants under these conditions is directly related to engine cranking and startability. The lower a lubricant’s cold crank viscosity, the easier an engine will turn over in cold temperatures.

ASTM D-4172 The Four-Ball Wear Test evaluates the protection provided by engine oil under conditions of pressure and sliding motion. The size of the scar left as a result of the test determines the amount of wear protection the lubricant provides. The smaller the wear scar, the better the protection.