Glossary
Absolute viscosity – A term used interchangeably with viscosity to distinguish it from kinematic viscosity or commercial viscosity. It is occasionally referred to as dynamic viscosity.Acidity – In lubricants, acidity denotes the presence of acid-type constituents whose concentration is usually defined in terms of acid number. The constituents vary in nature and may or may not markedly influence the behavior of the lubricant. (See also Acid Number)
Acid Number – See Strong Acid Number and Total Acid Number Additive – A chemical compound or compound added to a lubricant to impart new properties or to improve those properties that the lubricant already has. AGMA – Abbreviation for “American Gear Manufacturers Association,” an organization serving the gear industry. Aniline Point – The Aniline Point of a petroleum product is the lowest temperature at which it is completely miscible with an equal volume of freshly distilled aniline.
VISCOSITY CLASSIFICATION EQUIVALENTS
Many petroleum products are graded according to the ISO Viscosity Classification System, approved by the International Standards Organization (ISO). Each ISO viscosity grade number corresponds to the mid-point of a viscosity range expressed in centistokes (cSt) at 40°C. For example, a lubricant with an ISO grade of 32 has a viscosity within the range of 28.8-35.2, the midpoint of which is 32.
STORAGE OF PACKAGED LUBRICANTS
Properly storing lubricants is important to protect them from all sources of contamination and excessive heat and cold which can lead to degradation. They should be stored inside, when possible, where it is clean and dry. Storing lubricants outside is not recommended because of the following
Water will enter the drum around the bungs and contaminate the product if drums are left standing on end. Water collects on the top of the drum and is pulled in (this is referred to as breathing) due to the rising and falling of the ambient temperature even though the bung is sealed.
Extreme heat and cold can alter physical properties in some lubricant products. Quarts and pails also have a tendency to breathe.
Drum markings and/or identification may fade and become unreadable making the product unusable, or resulting in product misapplication.
Dirt and rust can accumulate inside the chime of the drum and contaminate the product when opened.
Rust can develop inside the drum if water leaks in and contamination occurs.