ASTM D6278-12e1

5.1 This test method evaluates the percent viscosity loss for polymer-containing fluids resulting from polymer degradation in the high shear nozzle device. Thermal or oxidative effects are minimized.

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

5.3 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 percent viscosity loss 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.