ASTM’s petroleum products, liquid fuels, and lubricants committee (D02) is developing a new test method for rapid kinematic viscosity measurement.

According to ASTM member Patrick Maggi, the standard, WK88883, will be especially beneficial for high-volume lubricant test labs. It eliminates solvent use from the testing process for in-service oils like hydraulic, gear, and engine, increasing efficiency.

“Traditionally, lubricant test labs generate significant solvent waste to be disposed of,” says Maggi. “This test method reduces waste down to just the oils tested, making it safer, more sustainable, and more cost-effective.”

Maggi says the proposed standards is a prime example of the D02 Strategic Initiative Panel’s objective to promote the development of sustainable standards.

Brian Poillucci, product manager at Cannon Instrument Company and D02.96 technical contact for WK88883, further notes that the novel apparatus remains a gravity-flow viscometer. This eases implementation, making it a familiar yet transformative solution.

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. JOIN ASTM.