ASTM D4693-03 - 1.12.2003
 
Significance and Use

This test method differentiates among greases having distinctly different low-temperature characteristics. This test is used for specification purposes and correlates with its precursor which has been used to predict the performance of greases in automotive wheel bearings in low-temperature service.4 It is the responsibility of the user to determine the correlation with other types of service.

 
1. Scope

1.1 This test method determines the extent to which a test grease retards the rotation of a specially-manufactured, spring-loaded, automotive-type wheel bearing assembly when subjected to low temperatures. Torque values, calculated from restraining-force determinations, are a measure of the viscous resistance of the grease. This test method was developed with greases giving torques of less than 35 Nm at -40°C.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 This 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.

 
2. Referenced Documents

MIL-G-10924F

Specification for Automotive and Artillery

E220-25

Standard Test Method for Calibration of Thermocouples by Comparison Techniques

E585/E585M-23

Standard Specification for Compacted Mineral-Insulated, Metal-Sheathed, Base Metal Thermocouple Cable

E563-22

Standard Practice for Preparation and Use of an Ice-Point Bath as a Reference Temperature

E608/E608M-24

Standard Specification for Mineral-Insulated, Metal-Sheathed Base Metal Thermocouples

D3527-23

Standard Test Method for Life Performance of Automotive Wheel Bearing Grease

D4175-24e2

Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants (Includes all amendments and changes 6/9/2026).

E1-14(2025)

Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers

E77-14(2021)

Standard Test Method for Inspection and Verification of Thermometers

D217-21a

Standard Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating Grease (Includes all amendments and changes 12/20/2021).

D1403-26

Standard Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating Grease Using One-Quarter and One-Half Scale Cone Equipment

Anti-Friction Bearing Manufacturer Assoc. (AFBMA) Standard 19,

1974 (ANSI B.3.19-1975)

E230-03

Standard Specification and Temperature-Electromotive Force (EMF) Tables for Standardized Thermocouples