Full Description

1.1This test method covers the use of rotational viscometers with an appropriate torque range and specific spindle for the determination of the low-shear-rate viscosity of automatic transmission fluids, gear oils, hydraulic fluids, and some lubricants. This test method covers the viscosity range of 300mPas to 900000mPas

1.2This test method was previously titled Low-Temperature Viscosity of Lubricants Measured by Brookfield Viscometer. In the lubricant industry, D2983 test results have often been referred to as Brookfield2 Viscosity which implies a viscosity determined by this method.

1.3This test method contains three procedures: Procedure A is used when only an air bath is used to cool samples in preparation for viscosity measurement. Procedure B is used when a mechanically refrigerated programmable liquid bath is used to cool samples in preparation for viscosity measurement. Procedure C is used when a mechanically refrigerated constant temperature liquid bath is used to cool samples by means of a simulated air cell (SimAir)3 Cell in preparation for viscosity measurement.

1.4The range of viscosity used to generate the precision data for this test method was from 300mPas to 170000mPas at test temperatures from -12C to -40C. The ILS also included viscosities greater than 500000 mPas and temperatures down to -55C and are included in Appendix X5. Appendix X4 lists another interlaboratory study that specifically targeted hydraulic fluid ranging from 500mPas to 1700mPas.

1.5The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5.1The test method uses the SI unit, milliPascal-second (mPas), as the unit of viscosity. (1 cP = 1 mPas).

1.6WARNING-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 EPAs 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.

1.7This 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.

1.8This 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.