ASTM D-2596 vs. D-2266

[Tempest]

http://www.astm.org/Standards/D2596.htm
http://www.astm.org/Standards/D2266.htm
These are both 4 ball tests with different values but what do they tell us in practical terms?

Grease #1:
D-2266 = 0.32 mm
D-2596 weld point = 400

Grease #2"
D-2266 = 0.66 mm
D-2596 weld point = 800

Both of these are real greases and both are about twice as good (or bad) as the other in the opposite test. Which would be a "better" grease (ignoring all other factors)?

 

[bruce381]

grease 1 has a lower amount of EP and thus a lower weld point BUT under lower load conditions it has a smaller weld scar than grease 2.

Grease 2 has a higher EP amount in that it welds at a lot higher load BUT under low loads it has a higher wear scar.

If you had a very high loaded or high shock loaded bearing the #2 would be better for more "normal" loads that do not need high EP then grease 1 would be better, or something like that.
bruce

 

[Tempest]

Thanks Bruce. Would a wheel bearing notice the difference in either of these? Timken was 60 for both.

 

[bruce381]

wheel bearings generally do not need much EP in that thet are roller and "frictionless"