CLS Lubricant Storage, Handling & Contamination Control Flashcards

The 'four-ball wear test' (ASTM D4172) is used to evaluate which lubricant property?

Answer: Anti-wear performance under sliding contact

The four-ball wear test measures the wear scar diameter on steel balls under defined load, speed, and temperature to evaluate anti-wear additive effectiveness.

Which lubricant property is described by the NLGI consistency number system?

Answer: Grease stiffness/hardness

The NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute) grade number classifies grease from 000 (very fluid) to 6 (very stiff) based on worked penetration.

In a lubrication management program, what is the primary purpose of a Lubricant Consolidation Study?

Answer: To reduce the number of lubricant types used while maintaining equipment protection

Lubricant consolidation reduces SKU count, cross-contamination risk, inventory complexity, and training burden without compromising machine protection.

What is the significance of a lubricant's 'dropping point' when selecting a grease for a high-temperature application?

Answer: It defines the temperature at which the grease loses its semi-solid structure

The dropping point is the temperature at which grease transitions from semi-solid to liquid, serving as the upper temperature limit for grease selection.

Which labeling information is most critical to include on all lubricant containers in a storage room to prevent misapplication?

Answer: Lubricant type, grade, intended equipment/application, and date received

Complete labeling with lubricant identity, grade, application point, and receipt date prevents cross-contamination and ensures FIFO management.

When establishing a lube room cleanliness standard, what minimum ISO 4406 cleanliness level should new oil reach before entering service in a precision hydraulic system?

Answer: ISO 16/14/11 or cleaner

Precision hydraulic systems with servo valves typically require fluid at ISO 16/14/11 or cleaner to prevent component wear and stiction.