D 6813 - 02 - Rdy4mtmtukve

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what
changes have been made to the previous version. Because

it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
An American National Standard

Designation: D 6813 – 02a
Standard Guide for

Performance Evaluation of Hydraulic Fluids for Piston
Pumps1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 6813; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide establishes test protocols and methodologies for determining the suitability of fluids for use in fluid power
systems that incorporate axial or radial piston pumps. The suitability of all fluid types to meet specific levels of performance in
piston pumps is addressed. These fluids include, but are not limited to formulations based on mineral, synthetic or vegetable oil
base stocks. The finished fluids may be in the form of straight oils, soluble oils or invert emulsions.
1.2 The test protocols and methodologies described in this guide have been selected for their ability to distinguish between
highly acceptable, acceptable and unacceptable fluid performance in piston pumps. They take into account the broad range of
operating conditions piston pumps are subjected to, as well as the common variations in design and materials of construction
among pump manufacturers.
1.3 This guide is intended to complement proprietary test protocols and methodologies employed by some piston pump
manufacturers. The test protocols and methodologies within this guide may help pump manufacturers, fluid formulators and end
users accurately screen potential fluids for specific performance characteristics. The results of this screening may be sufficient in
certain instances for pump manufacturers to forego requirements for additional fluid performance tests.
1.4 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
requirements prior to use.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D02.N0.07 on
Lubricating Properties.
Current edition approved June Nov. 10, 2002. Published October February 2003. Originally approved in 2002. Last previous edition approved in 2002 as D 6813–02.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
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D 6813 – 02a
D 92 Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland Open Cup2
D 93 Test Methods for Flash-Point by Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Tester2
D 95 Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and Bituminous Materials by Distillation2
D 97 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products2
D 130 Test Method for Detection of Copper Corrosion from Petroleum Products by the Copper Strip Tarnish Test2
D 445 Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent and Opaque Liquids2
D 482 Test Method for Ash from Petroleum Products2
D 611 Test Methods for Aniline Point and Mixed Aniline Point of Petroleum Products and Hydrocarbon Solvents2
D 664 Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products by Potentiometric Titration2
D 665 Test Method for Rust-Preventing Characteristics of Inhibited Mineral Oil in the Presence of Water2
D 874 Test Method for Sulfated Ash from Lubricating Oils and Additives2
D 877 Test Method for Dielectric Breakdown Voltage of Insulating Liquids Using Disk Electrodes3
D 892 Test Method for Foaming Characteristics of Lubricating Oils2
D 943 Test Method for Oxidation Characteristics of Inhibited Mineral Oils2
D 974 Test Method for Acid and Base Number by Color-Indicator Titration2
D 1121 Test Method for Reserve Alkalinity of Engine Coolants and Antirusts4
D 1123 Test Methods for Water in Engine Coolant Concentrate by the Karl Fischer Reagent Method4
D 1169 Test Method for Specific Resistance (Resistivity) of Electrical Insulating Liquids3
D 1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum
Products by Hydrometer Method2
D 1401 Test Method for Water Separability of Petroleum Oils and Synthetic Fluids2
D 1500 Test Method for ASTM Color of Petroleum Products (ASTM Color Scale)2
D 1533 Test Method for Water in Insulating Liquids by Coulometric Karl Fischer Titration3
D 2070 Test Method for Thermal Stability of Hydraulic Oils2
D 2270 Practice for Calculating Viscosity Index from Kinematic Viscosity at 40 and 100°C2
D 2272 Test Method for Oxidation Stability of Steam Turbine Oils by Rotating Pressure Vessel2
D 2273 Test Method for Trace Sediment in Lubricating Oils2
D 2422 Classification of Industrial Fluid Lubricants by Viscosity System2
D 2619 Test Method for Hydrolytic Stability of Hydraulic Fluids (Beverage Bottle Method)2
D 2624 Test Methods for Electrical Conductivity of Aviation and Distillate Fuels2
D 2717 Test Method for Thermal Conductivity of Liquids2
D 2766 Test Method for Specific Heat of Liquids and Solids2
D 2783 Test Method for Extreme-Pressure Properties of Lubricating Fluids (Four-Ball Method)2
D 2879 Test Method for Vapor Pressure-Temperature Relationship and Initial Decomposition Temperature of Liquids by
Isoteniscope2
D 2882 Test Method for Indicating Wear Characteristics of Petroleum and Non-Petroleum Hydraulic Fluids in Constant Volume
Vane Pump2
D 2983 Test Method for Low-Temperature Viscosity of Automotive Fluid Lubricants Measured by Brookfield Viscometer2
D 3427 Test Method for Air Release Properties of Petroleum Oils5
D 4052 Test Method for Density and Relative Density of Liquids by Digital Density Meter5
D 4172 Test Method for Wear Preventive Characteristics of Lubricating Fluid (Four-Ball Method)5
D 4293 Specification for Phosphate Ester Based Fluids for Turbine Lubrication5
D 4308 Test Method for Electrical Conductivity of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Precision Meter5
D 4310 Test Method for Determination of the Sludging and Corrosion Tendencies of Inhibited Mineral Oils5
D 5182 Test Method for Evaluating the Scuffing Load Capacity of Oils (FZG Visual Method)5
D 5185 Test Method for Determination of Additive Elements, Wear Metals, and Contaminants in Used Lubricating Oils and
Determination of Selected Elements in Base Oils by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES)5
D 5534 Test Method for Vapor-Phase Rust-Preventing Characteristics of Hydraulic Fluids6
D 5621 Test Method for Sonic Shear Stability of Hydraulic Fluid6
D 6006 Guide for Assessing Biodegradability of Hydraulic Fluids6
D 6046 Classification of Hydraulic Fluids for Environmental Impact6
D 6080 Practice for Defining the Viscosity Characteristics of Hydraulic Fluids6
D 6158 Specification for Mineral Hydraulic Oils6
2
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 05.01.
3
4
5
6
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D 6813 – 02a
D 6304 Test Method for Determination of Water in Petroleum Products, Lubricating Oils, and Additives by Coulometric Karl
Fischer Titration6
D 6376 Test Method for Determination of Trace Metals in Petroleum Coke by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence
Spectroscopy7
D 6546 Test Methods for and Suggested Limits for Determining Compatibility of Elastomer Seals for Industrial Hydraulic Fluid
Applications7
D 6547 Test Method for Corrosiveness of a Lubricating Fluid to a Bimetallic Couple7
D 6595 Test Method for Determination of Wear Metals and Contaminants in Used Lubricating Oils or Used Hydraulic Fluids
by Rotating Disc Electrode Atomic Emission Spectrometry7
E 70 Test Method for pH of Aqueous Solutions With the Glass Electrode4
E 203 Test Method for Water Using Volumetric Karl Fischer Titration4
E 659 Test Method for Autoignition Temperature of Liquid Chemicals8
F 312 Test Methods for Microscopical Sizing and Counting Particles from Aerospace Fluids on Membrane Filters8
2.2 AFNOR Standards:9
AFNOR NF E48-690 Hydraulic Fluid Power. Fluids. Measurement of Filterability of Mineral Oils
AFNOR NF E48-691 Hydraulic Fluid Power. Fluids. Measurement of Filterability of Minerals Oils in the Presence of Water
AFNOR NF E48-692 Hydraulic Fluid Power. Fluids. Measurement of Filterability of HFC and HFD Class Fire Resistant Fluids
2.3 ANSI (NFPA) Standards:10
ANSI/(NFPA) Standard T2.13.7R1-1996 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Petroleum Fluids—Prediction of Bulk Moduli
ANSI/Standard NFPA/JIC T2.24.1-1990 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Systems Standard for Stationary Industrial Machinery
ANSI/(NFPA) Standard T3.9.20-1992 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Pumps—Method of Testing and Presenting Basic Performance
Data for Pressure Compensated Pumps
ANSI/(NFPA) Standard T3.9.33-1997 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Pumps—Method of Testing and Presenting Basic Performance
Data for Load Sensing Pumps
ANSI/(NFPA) Standard T3.16.2-R1-1997 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Design for Nonintegral Industrial Reservoirs
2.4 CETOP Standard:
CETOP RP 67H Antiwear Vane Pump Test for Hydraulic Fluids11
2.5 DIN Standards:12
DIN 51348 Testing of Fire Resistant Governor Fluids; Determination of Hydrolytic Stability
DIN 51373 Testing of Fire Resistant Governor Fluids; Determination of Oxidative Stability Including Evaluation of Catalyst
Plates
DIN 51389/2 Determination of Lubricants; Mechanical Testing of Hydraulic Fluids in the Vane-Cell-Pump; Method A for
Anhydrous Hydraulic Fluids
DIN 51389/3 Determination of Lubricants; Mechanical Testing of Hydraulic Fluids in the Vane-Cell-Pump—Part 3: Method B
for Aqueous Not Easily Inflammable Hydraulic Fluids
DIN 51515, Part 1 Lubricants and Governor Fluids for Steam Turbines; L-TD Lubricating Oils and Governor Oils; Minimum
Requirements
DIN 51554, Part 3 Testing of Mineral Oils; Test of Susceptibility to Aging According to Baader; Testing at 95°C
2.6 British Standard:13
IP 281 Determination of Anti-Wear Properties of Hydraulic Fluids—Vane Pump Method
2.7 ISO Standards:14
ISO 4021 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Particulate Contamination Analysis—Extraction of Fluid Samples From Lines of an
Operating System
ISO 4402 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Calibration of Automatic-Count Instruments for Particles Suspended in Liquids—Method
Using Classified AC Fine Test Dust Contaminant
ISO 4404 Petroleum and Related Products—Determination of the Corrosion Resistance of Water-Containing Fire-Resistant
Fluids for Hydraulic Systems
ISO 4406 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Fluids—Method for Coding The Level of Contamination by Solid Particles
7
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9
Available from AFNOR, Administration des Ventes, 11, avenue Francis de Pressensi, 93571 Saint-Denis La Plaine Cedex.
10
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036.
11
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D02.N0.07 on
Lubricating Properties.
Current edition approved Nov. 10, 2002. Published February 2003. Originally approved in 2002. Last previous edition approved in 2002 as D 6813–02.
12
Available from Beuth Verlag GmbH (DIN-- DIN Deutsches Institut fur Normung e.V.), Burggrafenstrasse 6, 10787, Berlin, Germany.
13
Available from Institute of Petroleum (IP), 61 New Cavendish St., London, WIG 7AR, U.K.
14
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1 rue de Varembé, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland.
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D 6813 – 02a
ISO 4407 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Fluid Contamination—Determination of Particulate Contamination by the Counting Method
Using a Microscope
ISO 5884 Aerospace—Fluid Systems and Components—Methods for System Sampling and Measuring the Solid Particle
Contamination of Hydraulic Fluids
ISO 6073 Petroleum Products—Prediction of the Bulk Moduli of Petroleum Fluids Used in Hydraulic Power Systems
ISO 6743/4 Part 4: Family H (Hydraulic Systems), Lubricants, Industrial Oils and Related Products (Class L) : Classification
Part 4: Family H (Hydraulic Systems)
ISO 11171 Hydraulic Fluid Power—Calibration of Automatic Particle Counters for Liquids
ISO 12922 Lubricants, Industrial Oils and Related Products (Class L)—Family H (Hydraulic Systems)—Specifications for
Categories HFAE, HFAS, HFB, HFC, HFDR and HFDU
ISO 13357-2 Part 2: Petroleum Products—Determination of the Filterability of Lubricating Oils—Part 2: Procedure for Dry
Oils
ISO 14935 Petroleum and Related Products—Determination of Wick Flame Persistence of Fire-Resistant Fluids
ISO 15029 Petroleum and Related Products—Determination of Spray Ignition Characteristics of Fire-Resistant Fluids—Part I:
Spray Flame Persistence—Hollow Cone Nozzle Method
2.8 LUX Standard:15
LUX 5.9 Determination of the Corrosion Inhibiting Properties of Fluids, Requirements for Tests Applicable to Fire-Resistant
Fluids Used for Power Transmission and Control (Hydrostatic and Hydrokinetic), April, 1994
2.9 SAE Standards:16
SAE J745 Surface Vehicle Recommended Practice, Hydraulic Power Pump Test Procedure
SAE J1276 MAR86 Standardized Fluid for Hydraulic Component Tests
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 abrasive wear—wear due to hard particles, including wear debris or fluid contaminants, or hard protuberances forced
against and moving along a hard surface.
3.1.2 axial piston pump—in the axial piston pump, the pistons are positioned axially, parallel to the driveshaft, and their
reciprocating motion is caused by an inclined swash plate as illustrated in Fig. 1.
3.1.3 bent axis piston pump—in the bent axis piston pump, the axis of the cylinder barrel is held at a fixed angle relative to the
centerline of the driveshaft as illustrated in Fig. 2.
3.1.4 biodegradable—capable of undergoing decomposition into carbon dioxide, methane, water, inorganic compounds, or
biomass in which the predominant mechanism is the enzymatic action of microorganisms that can be measured by standardized
tests, in a specific period of time, reflecting available disposal conditions.
3.1.5 biomass—any material, excluding fossil fuels, which is or was a living organism that can be used as a fuel. Peanut hulls,
agricultural waste, corn and other grains, and sugar are all examples of biomass.
3.1.6 case drainage—leakage from around piston clearances and control valves to the case drain port in the pump housing
which returns fluid to the reservoir.
3.1.7 cycled volume—cycled volume testing subjects a hydraulic pump or component to repeated pulses of volume flow from
a predetermined minimum to a maximum flow at a constant pressure.
3.1.8 delivery—the flow output per unit time expressed in litres per minute (L/min) or in gallons per minute (gal/min).
3.1.9 displacement (geometrical)—the volume of hydraulic fluid that is transported through the hydraulic pump during a single
rotation of the pump shaft and is expressed in volume output per revolution (cm3/rev or in.3/rev).
3.1.10 face plate (valve plate, port plate, lens plate)—the face plate, which is held at a fixed position, controls the timing of
the inlet and outlet of the fluid flow, depending on the position of the cylinder barrel, during rotation of the pump.
3.1.11 filterability—a measure of the fluid’s ability to pass through filter media.
3.1.12 fixed displacement—the amount of flow cannot be varied per each shaft rotation although it can be varied by varying the
rotational speed of the shaft.
3.1.13 flow degradation—flow degradation refers to the loss of flow through the hydraulic pump caused by lubrication wear,
cavitation erosion, or contamination wear and is expressed as the ratio of flow rate delivered after the test to the flow rate delivered
before the test.
3.1.14 fluid residence time (turnover time)—the average time that a given volume of fluid remains in the reservoir from the time
of entry into the reservoir from the system until it enters the pump inlet is determined by the reservoir volume/flow rate.
W ~Watt! 5 Delivery ~L/min! 3 Pressure ~kPag!60
3.1.15 hydraulic power—the output power of a hydraulic pump which is defined by:
15
Available from European Safety and Health Commission for the Mining and Other Extractive Industries, Doc. No. 4746/10/91, EN, Luxembourg.
16
Available from Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Dr., Warrendale, PA 15096-0001.
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D 6813 – 02a
FIG. 1 Illustration of an Axial Piston Pump
FIG. 2 Illustration of a Bent Axis Piston Pump
Delivery ~L/min! 3 Pressure ~kPag!

W ~Watt! 5 60 (1)
Delivery ~gal/min! 3 Pressure ~psig!

hp ~Horsepower! 5 1714 (2)
3.1.16 inlet pressure (minimum)—the minimum inlet pressure, specified by the pump supplier, for each set of operating
parameters.
3.1.17 leakage flow—this is related to the annular clearance between the piston and the cylinder; increased clearances due to
erosion and wear results in a loss of volumetric efficiency (see 3.1.26).
3.1.18 leakage pressure (case drain pressure)— back-pressure that the case experiences during leakage which is determined by
the size of the case drain port, hose, fluid viscosity, and the rate of leakage flow to the reservoir via the case drain.
3.1.19 operating pressure—the pressure at the discharge port of the hydraulic pump.
3.1.20 pulsed (cycled) pressure—pulsed pressure testing subjects a hydraulic pump or component to repeated pressure pulses
(at a constant volume), often from close to zero (minimum load) to a predetermined maximum pressure, in order to evaluate fatigue
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D 6813 – 02a
life or moving part interaction problems and leakage.
3.1.21 pump capacity (pump displacement)—the actual pump displacement expressed in volume per revolution (cm3/rev).
3.1.22 radial piston pump—in the radial piston pump, the pistons are positioned radially, perpendicular to the driveshaft, and
piston motion is caused by the use of a fixed cylinder and rotating cam plate as illustrated in Fig. 3, or a rotating block around
a stationary cam can also be used.
3.1.23 reservoir, hydraulic—a container for the storage of a fluid used in a hydraulic system.
3.1.24 shaft power—the input power driving the hydraulic pump (often from an electric motor) which is defined by:
Torque ~N·m! 3 Speed ~rpm!
W ~Watt! 5 9.549 (3)
Torque ~lbf·in.! 3 Speed ~rpm!

hp ~Horsepower! 5 63 025 (4)
3.1.25 swash plate (creep plate, wear plate, wobble plate)—in a swash-plate (axial) piston pump, the shaft rotates the piston
block, thus rotating the pistons, which are held against the surface of a swash plate by springs and a retainer plate. For the piston
pump to produce a flow, the swash plate must be held at some angle relative to the centerline of the shaft and the angle will force
the pistons to move in and out of the piston or cylinder barrel of the pump as shown in Fig. 1.
3.1.26 total effıciency—hydraulic pumping efficiency, or total efficiency (ET), is a combination of two efficiencies, volumetric
efficiency (Ev) and mechanical efficiency (Em) and is determined from variable displacement.
Actual Flow Output
Ev 5 Theoretical Flow Output (5)
Theoretical Torque Input

Em Actual Torque Output (6)
ET 5 Ev 3 Em (7)
3.1.27 variable displacement—the amount of flow per each shaft revolution may be varied to limit the outlet flow to a
preselected value.
4. Significance and Use

4.1 Users of hydraulic equipment which includes piston pumps would like assurance that the fluids they use will allow their
systems to operate safely with reasonable equipment life. This assurance is commonly provided by the fluid supplier in the form
of results of standardized tests on the fluid, or demonstrated success in field use in similar systems, or both. This guide will help
fluid developers and users develop testing protocols which demonstrate the suitability of a fluid for its intended use, including any
required limitations on hydraulic system operating conditions.
4.2 The significance and use of each test method cited in this guide will depend upon the system in use and the purpose of the
test method. Use the most recent editions of ASTM test methods.
5. Fluid Classification
5.1 Mineral oil hydraulic fluids are classified in Specification D 6158. Fire-resistant hydraulic fluids are classified in ISO 6743/4
and the specifications for these fluid classes are provided in ISO 12922.
5.2 Mineral Oil Hydraulic Fluids :
5.2.1 Type HH Hydraulic Oils—Non-inhibited refined mineral oils for hydraulic systems that do not have specific requirements
of oxidation stability, rust protection, or anti-wear properties. Type HH oils are usually intended for total loss systems or very light
duty equipment.
FIG. 3 Schematic Illustration of a Radial Piston Pump
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D 6813 – 02a
5.2.2 Type HL Hydraulic Oils—Refined mineral oils with improved rust protection and oxidation stability for hydraulic systems
where relatively high temperatures and long periods of operation time are expected, and where there is the possibility of water or
humidity that could rust metal parts of the machinery. These oils are intended for use in systems where only full film lubrication
is expected between the moving parts. Usually systems working at low pressures specify HL oils. Some high-pressure piston
pumps can operate satisfactorily on these oils.
5.2.3 Type HM Hydraulic Oils—Oils of HL type with improved anti-wear properties, for general hydraulic systems, especially
for those working at high pressure and where the possibility of metal to metal contact exists. Type HM oils are usually specified
for hydraulic systems with vane pumps, or when the system is intended to work at maximum pump capacity for long periods of
time.
5.2.4 Type HV Hydraulic Oils—Oils of the HM type with improved viscosity/temperature properties, for general hydraulic
systems where equipment is intended to operate over a wide range of ambient temperatures.
5.3 Fire-Resistant Hydraulic Fluids :
5.3.1 Type HFA Hydraulic Fluids—Fire-resistant hydraulic fluids that may be further classified as:
5.3.1.1 Type HFAE Hydraulic Fluids—Mineral oil-in-water emulsions containing less than 20 % by volume mineral oil.
5.3.1.2 Type HFAS Hydraulic Fluids—Mineral oil-free aqueous synthetic polymer-thickened solutions, often microemulsions,
containing >80 % water. These fluids are suitable for use at low working pressures and temperatures varying from 5 to <55°C.
5.3.2 Type HFB Hydraulic Fluids—Water-in-mineral oil emulsions containing <60 % mineral oil, which are used as
fire-resistant hydraulic fluids at operating temperatures of 5 to <55°C.
5.3.3 Type HFC Hydraulic Fluids—Thickened water-glycol fluids containing >35 % water which are suitable for use at
operating temperatures of -20 to <60°C.
5.3.4 Type HFD Hydraulic Fluids—Anhydrous synthetic fire-resistant fluids used at operating temperatures of <120°C. Type
HFD fluids are further subdivided into Types HFD-R and HFD-U. Type HFD-R fluids are based on phosphate esters and Type
HFD-U fluids are based on polyol esters.
5.4 Biodegradable Hydraulic Fluids :
5.4.1 Type HETG Hydraulic Fluids—Typically, biodegradable, water–insoluble hydraulic fluids derived from vegetable oils.
These fluids may be used at operating temperatures of -20 to <80°C.
5.4.2 Type HEES Hydraulic Fluids—Typically biodegradable fluids derived from synthetic esters, such as polyol ester and
diesters, which may be used at operating temperatures of −35 to <90°C.
5.4.3 Type HEPG Hydraulic Fluids—Polyalkylene glycol derived fluids that may be water-soluble or insoluble with varying
degrees of biodegradability and fire resistance. These fluids are suitable for use at operating temperatures of -30 to <90°C.
5.4.4 Type HEPR Hydraulic Fluids—Biodegradable fluids whose basestocks are derived from polyalphaolefin and related
hydrocarbons.
5.4.5 Other Biodegradable Fluids—Paragraphs 5.4.1-5.4.4 describe HETG, HEES, HEPG, and HEPR fluids as biodegradable
fluids. However, there are other types of biodegradable fluids not included in a listing. Fluid biodegradability is established by
specific testing protocol. For example, some fire-resistant fluids of the HFC and HFD type are readily biodegradable as established
by Guide D 6006, but this is not reflected in the current ISO specifications. In this guide, reference to biodegradable fluids indicates
that they pass appropriate biodegradability standards, not necessarily their placement on a listing of biodegradable fluid classes.
6. Fluid Properties and Performance Testing Procedures

6.1 The hydraulic fluid is a component of the total hydraulic system and to be used properly, various properties of the fluid must
be considered relative to system design. These properties are determined by various tests procedures which include: physical
properties, chemical properties, oxidative stability, corrosion, fire-resistance, biological and ecological compatibility, other bench
tests, and pump tests. A summary of important fluid properties and associated test procedures is provided in Table 1.
NOTE 1—Every test is not appropriate for every fluid class shown in Table 1. The test procedures that are appropriate for a given fluid class are
identified by an “X.”
NOTE 2—Every fluid test shown in the table need not be performed before for every pump test; however, it is recommended that after selecting those
tests that are deemed most critical for the hydraulic fluid to be tested, that the test selection and properties of interest be reviewed with the component
manufacturer to ensure that the fluid properties will meet the design and operational requirements for both the pump/motor/components and the
application of interest before the hydraulic piston pump test is conducted.
6.2 Typical Physical Properties :

6.2.1 ISO Viscosity Grade (Classification D 2422)—The International Standards Organization has established a viscosity
classification system for industrial fluid lubricants. Such lubricants are classified by grades designated as ISO-VG based on their
viscosities in centistokes at 40°C. The choice of viscosity grade for use in a particular hydraulic system should meet the
manufacturer’s recommendations.
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D 6813 – 02a
TABLE 1 Hydraulic Fluid Physical Property Characterization Tests
Hydraulic Fluid Classification

Characteristics Test According to:
HH HL HM HV HETG HEES HEPG HEPR HFA HFB HFD HFC
Kinematic viscosity at 40°C X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 445

Low Temperature Viscosity X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2983, ASTM D 6080
ISO Viscosity Grade X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2422
Viscosity Index X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2270
Pour point X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 97
Density at 15°C X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 1298, ASTM D 4052
Air release at 50°C X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 3427
Foam volumes (5 min. blowing, 10 min settling) X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 892
Sequence I
Initial Volume
Final Volume, Time
Sequence II
Initial Volume
Final Volume, Time
Sequence III
Initial Volume
Final Volume, Time
Emulsion stability at 54°C X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 1401
Viscosity Stability (Ultrasonic Test) X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 5621
Dielectric Breakdown Voltage (45-65 Hz) X X X X ASTM D 877
Electrical Conductivity at 20°C X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 4308
Thermal conductivity X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2717
Specific heat capacity at 20°C X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2766
Vapor pressure X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2879
Bulk Modulus X X X X X X X X X X X X ISO 6073
Fluid Cleanliness
Instrumental Test Method X X X X X X X X X X X X ISO 11171
Microscopic Test Method X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM F 312, ISO 4407
Cleanliness Code X X X X X X X X X X X X ISO 4406
In-Line Sampling Method X X X X X X X X X X X X ISO 4021
Drum Sampling X X X X X X X X X X X X ISO 5884
Sediment Content X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2273
Seal Compatibility X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 6546
Hydraulic Fluid Chemical Property Characterization Tests (Including Seal Compatibility)
Ash (sulfated ash) proportion by mass X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 874, ASTM D 482
Water content—Hydraulic Oils X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 95, ASTM D 1533,
ASTM D 6304, ASTM E 203
pH value at 20°C X X X ASTM E 70
Neutralization number X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 664, ASTM D 974
Alkaline Reserve to pH 5.5 (0.1N HCl) X X X ASTM D 1121
Hydrolytic Stability (mg KOH, mg Cu/cm2) X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2619
Aniline Point X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 611
Hydraulic Fluid Thermal and Oxidative Stability, Corrosion and Bench Test Characterization Tests
Oxidation Stability—TOST X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 943
Oxidation Stability—Cincinnati Milacron X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2070
Oxidation Stability—RBOT X X X X X X ASTM D 2272
Oxidation Stability—Baader Test X X X X X X X X X DIN 51554, Part 3
Oxidation Stability X X X X X X X X X X X X DIN 51373
Sludging Tendency X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 4310
Thermal Stability (Copper and Steel Rods, sludge) X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2070
Turbine Oil Rust Test X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 665
Copper Corrosion X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 130
Galvanic Corrosion X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 6547
Vapor Phase Corrosion X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 5534
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D 6813 – 02a
TABLE 1 Continued
Hydraulic Fluid Thermal and Oxidative Stability, Corrosion and Bench Test Characterization Tests
Corrosion X X X X X X X X X X X X LUX 5.9, ISO
Aluminum 4404
Brass
Cadmium
Copper
Magnesium
Steel
Zinc
Steel and Zinc
Copper and Zinc
Aluminum and Zinc
Steel and Aluminum
Four-Ball Anti-wear X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 4172
Four-Ball Extreme Pressure X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2783
FZG-gear rig test method X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 5182
Vane pump anti-wear test X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 2882
AFNOR Filterability (dry) X X X X X X X X X AFNOR NF E48-
690
AFNOR Filterability (wet) X X X X X X X X AFNOR NF E48-
691
AFNOR Filterability (HDC and HFD) X X AFNOR NF E48-
692
ISO Filterability (Dry) X X X X X X X X X ISO 13357-2
Hydraulic Fluid Fire-Resistance Characterization Tests
Fire Point X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 92
Flash Point (Open Cup) X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 92
Determination of auto ignition temperature X X X X X X X X X ASTM E 659
Factory Mutual Tests: X X X X Factory Mutual Standard 6930
Hot Channel Ignition Test
Spray Ignition Test
Linear Flame Propagation Test X ASTM D 5306
Hot Manifold Test X X X X
Wick Flame Persistence X X X X ISO 14935
Spray Flame Test X X X X ISO 15029
Biodegradability X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 6006
Classification for Environmental Impact X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 6046
Hydraulic Fluid Fire-Resistance Characterization Tests
Biodegradability X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 6006
Classification for Environmental Impact X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 6046
6.2.2 Viscosity (Test Methods D 445 and D 2983, and Practice D 6080)—Viscosity is the measurement of a fluid’s resistance
to flow; it is considered to be the most important characteristic of a hydraulic fluid. The optimum value is always a compromise;
it has to be high enough, at the working temperature, to ensure that the fluid will not leak through the seals or junctions and to
maintain proper lubrication. Also, the viscosity has to be low enough to ensure fluid flow at start-up and to maintain system
efficiency and lubrication and avoid cavitation.
6.2.2.1 High VI hydraulic fluids often contain high molecular weight thickeners, called viscosity index (VI) improvers, which
may impart non-Newtonian characteristics to the fluid. These polymers may shear degrade with use, and reduce the in-service
viscosity of the fluids. Practice D 6080 provides uniform guidelines for characterizing oils in terms of both their high and low
temperature viscosities before and after exposure to high shear stress. Since the performance of fluids at temperatures higher than
40°C is determined in the worst case, that is, most severe situation, by the sheared oil viscosity, the viscosity and viscosity index
used to characterize fluids in this practice are those of the sheared fluid.
6.2.2.2 Practice D 6080 classifies oils at low temperature by their new oil properties. Low temperature viscosities do not
decrease greatly, if at all, with polymer shear degradation. Furthermore, this approach ensures that the fluid will be properly
classified under worst-case conditions, that is, when the fluid is new. Practice D 6080 may be used with new or used, Newtonian
or non- Newtonian, hydraulic fluids. This practice is used for the determination of viscosities at low temperatures applicable to all
hydraulic fluids based either on petroleum, synthetic, or naturally occurring base stocks. It is not intended for water-containing
hydraulic fluids.
6.2.3 Viscosity Index (VI) (Practice D 2270)—The VI number signifies the decrease of a fluid’s viscosity as the temperature
increases. The greater the VI, the less viscosity changes with temperature. In general, the VI is not very critical when the system
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D 6813 – 02a
works at a stable operating temperature. When the variation of temperature among different points in the system is high (over
30°C), or the operational temperatures vary considerably, then a high VI (over 90) is usually recommended.
6.2.4 Density—Relative Density (Test Methods D 1298 and D 4052) —This property is of value to hydraulic system designers
and operators for calculating system weight, internal pressure, wall thickness, and pump requirements. Density (or relative density)
is measured at, or converted to, a standard reference temperature, normally either 15°C or 60°F, and these need to be quoted
alongside the result. Test Method D 1298 uses a hydrometer plus thermometer for measurement while Test Method D 4052 uses
a digital density meter.
6.2.5 Pour Point (Test Method D 97, Low Temperature Viscosity (Test Method D 2983) —The pour point is an indication of the
lowest temperature at which an oil will flow by gravity. The fluid viscosity must allow the system to start up and operate at low
temperatures. As a practical rule, the fluid should have a pour point 10°C below the minimum expected ambient temperature. Test
Method D 2983 can be used to determine the temperature at which a fluid’s viscosity is less than 750 cP, which is suggested as
the highest viscosity which the equipment can tolerate without risk of damage during operation.
6.2.6 Shear Stability (Test Method D 5621)—Hydraulic fluids may be subjected to shear rates $10 6 sec-1, which may lead to
a permanent viscosity loss due to polymer additive degradation. Test Method D 5621 covers the evaluation of the shear stability
of a hydraulic fluid in terms of the final viscosity that results from irradiating a sample of the hydraulic fluid in a sonic oscillator.
Evidence has been presented that a good correlation exists between the shear degradation that results from sonic oscillation and
that obtained in a vane pump test procedure.
6.2.7 Foaming Characteristics (Test Method D 892)—In oil systems having high circulation rates, it is important that air
introduced through the seals or at the reservoir tank be readily released from the body of the fluid and not collect as foam on the
surface of the fluid, since this can produce cavitation or impede proper circulation. Test Method D 892 measures the tendency of
the oil to form foam, and the stability of the foam. There are three sequences: Sequence I at 24°C; Sequence II at 93.5°C; and
Sequence III at 24°C, using the same sample tested in Sequence II.
6.2.8 Air Release (Test Method D 3427)—Agitation of lubricating oil with air in the equipment may produce a dispersion of
finely divided air bubbles in the oil. If the residence time in the reservoir is too short to allow air bubbles to rise to the surface,
a mixture of air and oil will circulate through the lubrication system. This may result in the inability to maintain oil pressure,
incomplete oil films in contact zones, and poor hydraulic system performance or failure. This test measures the time for the
entrained air content to fall to the relatively low value of 0.2 % volume under standardized test conditions, and hence permits the
comparison of the oils’ capacity to separate entrained air over a period of time.
6.2.9 Water Separability (Demulsibility) Characteristics (Test Method D 1401)—Water in large hydraulic systems may be
removed from water insoluble fluids by mechanical procedures that take advantage of the demulsibility properties of the oil. A
contaminant in the emulsion can affect the viscosity of the circulating fluid, creating lubrication problems and may lead to deposits.
Test Method D 1401 determines the gross water separation characteristics of oils.
NOTE 3—Many, if not most, used oils from Test Method D 1401 contain residual levels of water equal to or exceeding amounts sufficient to shorten
oil life. Therefore, rapid water separation in Test Method D 1401 does not imply that testing oils with low levels of water contamination should not be
done.
6.2.10 Thermal Conductivity (Test Method D 2717) and Specific Heat (Test Method D 2766) —The thermal conductivity and
specific heats of hydraulic fluids are important fluid design parameters. These properties may be determined from Test Methods
D 2717 and D 2766 respectively.
6.2.11 Electrical Conductivity (Test Methods D 2624)—The ability of a fluid to dissipate charge during pumping and filtering
operations is controlled by its electrical conductivity, which depends on the content of ionic species. Electrical conductivity is an
important parameter in determining the potential for a hydraulic fluid to cause electrochemical erosion (chemical pitting).
Hydraulic fluid conductivity may be determined by Test Methods D 2624.
6.2.12 Dielectric Breakdown Voltage (Test Method D 877)—Some users require that a minimum breakdown voltage be reported
for applications like cherry pickers working near electric lines. This test method is used to judge if the disk electrode breakdown
voltage requirements are met for insulating liquids, as delivered from the manufacturer, that have never been filtered or dried. (See
Specification D 3487, Specification D 4652, and Guide D 5222 for the minimum specified electrical breakdown.) The breakdown
test uses ac voltage in the power-frequency range from 45 to 65 Hz. The sensitivity of this test method to the general population
of contaminants present in a liquid sample decreases as applied test voltages used in this test method become greater than
approximately 25 kV rms. If the concentration of water in the sample at room temperature is less than 60 % of saturation, the
sensitivity of this test method to the presence of water is decreased.
6.2.13 This test method describes two procedures, A and B, for determining the electrical breakdown voltage of insulating liquid
specimens.
6.2.13.1 Procedure A is used to determine the breakdown voltage of liquids in which any insoluble breakdown products easily
settle during the interval between the required repeated breakdown tests. These liquids include petroleum oils and hydrocarbons.
6.2.13.2 Procedure B is used to determine the breakdown voltage of liquids in which any insoluble breakdown products do not
completely settle from the space between the disks during the 1-min interval required in Procedure A (6.2.13.1). Procedure B
should also be applied for the determination of the breakdown voltage of liquid samples containing insoluble materials that settle
from the specimen during testing. These examples represent samples that may have large differences between replicate tests. The
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D 6813 – 02a
use of Procedure B will result in a more accurate value of breakdown voltage when testing such liquids. Use Procedure B to
establish the breakdown voltage of an insulating liquid where an ASTM specification does not exist or when developing a value
for an ASTM guide or standard. Procedure A may be used once its single operator precision has been demonstrated.
6.2.14 Resistivity (Test Method D 1169)—Resistivity (r) is the property of a material which determines its resistance to flow of
an electric current, expressed by:
r 5 R · A/l (8)
where:
R = resistance of the specimen, V,
A = cross-sectional area, cm2, and
l = length of the specimen, cm.
Resistivity is the inverse of conductivity. Resistivity is an important parameter in determining the potential for electrochemical
erosion (pitting corrosion) in a hydraulic system (1) . High resistivity reflects low content of free ions and ion-forming particles,
and normally indicates a low concentration of conductive contaminants. Test Method D 1169 involves the use of a dc galvanometer
to measure electrical current flow in a test cell containing the hydraulic fluid.
6.2.15 Vapor Pressure (Test Method D 2879)—One of the most critically important properties which must be accommodated
in hydraulic system design is the vapor pressure of a hydraulic fluid at its operating temperature. If the vapor pressure is sufficiently
high, the potential for cavitation may increase dramatically. Vapor pressure may be measured using an isoteniscope by Test Method
D 2879. This test method measures the vapor pressure of the fluid as received, including most volatile components, but it excludes
dissolved fixed gases such as air.
6.2.16 Bulk Modulus (Test Method ISO 6073) —Bulk modulus is a measure of the resistance to compressibility. The bulk
modulus of a hydraulic fluid is important because power is transmitted and controlled under pressure in a hydraulic circuit. Test
Method ISO 6073 (NFPA/T2.13.7R1-1996) provides a procedure for predicting the bulk moduli of hydraulic fluids. In this test
method, it is assumed that there are no gas bubbles in the fluid. The useful temperature range is from 0 to 270°C with a pressure
range from atmospheric to 700 000 kPa (7000 bar).
6.2.17 Elastomer Compatibility (Test Methods D 6546)—Test Methods D 6546 provide procedures for measuring physical
properties of elastomer seals in the form of O-rings after exposure to industrial hydraulic fluids and thermal aging. The measured
properties are then compared to the physical properties of elastomer seals that have not been exposed to the industrial hydraulic
fluids and thermal aging. The changes in these properties form a basis for assessing compatibility when these changes are compared
against the suggested limits.
6.2.17.1 These test methods provide procedures for exposing O-ring test specimens to industrial hydraulic fluids under definite
conditions of temperature and time. The resulting deterioration of the O-ring material is determined by comparing the changes in
work function, hardness, physical properties, compression set, and seal volume after immersion in the test fluid to the
pre-immersion values.
6.2.18 Sediment Content (Test Method D 2273)—This test method covers the determination of trace amounts (less than 0.05
volume %) of sediment in lubricating oils. Since oil-soluble material precipitated by the specified solvent is not intended as part
of the measured sediment, this test method is not applicable in cases where precipitated oil-soluble components will appreciably
contribute to the sediment readings.
6.2.19 Fluid Cleanliness (Test Method ISO 4406, 4021, and 11171) —Fluid cleanliness is an important parameter since dirt
contaminants and wear debris may lead to erosive or abrasive wear in the system and interfere with the operation of various
components such as servovalves. Therefore, reliable system performance requires contamination monitoring and control
procedures.
6.2.19.1 Qualitative and quantitative determination of the particulate contaminants in a hydraulic fluid requires precision in
obtaining the sample and determination of the nature and extent of the contaminant in addition to particle size and concentration.
Hydraulic fluid samples must be representative of the particle contaminant in the fluid flowing at the point of sampling. The most
representative sample is obtained from the system while the fluid is flowing in a turbulent manner. Line sampling procedures that
provide the necessary representative system cleanliness results are described in detail in ISO 4021. A fluid samples taken in this
manner is designated as a dynamic sample. There are several procedures and devises for sampling drums, barrels, etc. such as ISO
5884. Liquid automatic particle counters are an accepted means of determining the concentration and size distribution of the
contaminant particles. Individual instrument accuracy is established through calibration. ISO 11171 provides procedures for:
(1) Primary particle-sizing, sensor resolution, and counting performance;
(2) Secondary particle-sizing calibration using suspensions prepared with NIST reference materials;
(3) Establishing acceptable operation and performance limits;
(4) Verifying particle sensor performance using a truncated test dust procedure; and
(5) Determining coincidence and flow rate limits in the particle counter.
NOTE 4—ISO 11171 replaces the ISO 4402 method of calibrating automatic particle counters which is now obsolete.
6.2.19.2 Quantitative counting of particles may also be performed by microscopic counting. The microscopic technique is
described in Test Methods F 312 and ISO 4407. Thus far, there is no standard procedure that has been reported for the use of
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D 6813 – 02a
automatic particle counters, although there are calibration procedures using a synthetic test dust (see ISO 11171). The test dusts
are designated as are ISO Ultrafine, ISO Fine, ISO Medium, and ISO Coarse.
6.2.19.3 The coding procedure for contaminant number and size distribution to be used in defining the quantity of solid particles
in the fluid in a given hydraulic system is described in ISO 4406. This test method provides a three-part code for contamination
levels measured with automatic particle counters calibrated in accordance with ISO 11171. The reported particle sizes are 4 µm,
$6 µm, and $14 µm. It also introduces equivalent particle sizes for such counters, based on calibration with NIST reference
material SRM 2806.
6.3 Typical Chemical Properties :
6.3.1 Neutralization Number (Test Methods D 664 and D 974)—Oxidation of hydraulic fluids may be monitored by tracking
increases in the acid number. Because the fresh fluid may be either alkaline or acidic, depending on the additives present, the value
of the acid number of the fresh fluid is not indicative of quality. However, increasing acid numbers generally indicate increasing
amounts of oxidation.
NOTE 5—With ester-based fluids, the acid number of the fresh fluid is indicative of quality, since esters hydrolyze quicker in the presence of acid.
6.3.1.1 The acid number is determined by titrating a sample of known size with a known amount of standard base (Test Methods
D 664 or D 974). The test is performed by dissolving the oil in a mixture of toluene and isopropanol, to which has been added a
small amount of water, then titrating it with a standard solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH). The endpoint may be determined
potentiometrically or colorimetrically with a pH-sensitive indicator. The acid number (AN) is reported in units of milligrams of
KOH per gram of sample (mg KOH/g). It should be noted that the acid number obtained by Test Method D 974 may or may not
be numerically the same as those obtained by Test Method D 664, but it is generally of the same order of magnitude.
6.3.2 Hydrolytic Stability (Test Method D 2619)—The resistance of hydraulic fluids to hydrolysis is important. Reaction of a
finished product with water can lead to the formation of corrosive substances, acids, insoluble by-products, and stable emulsions
which can, in turn, cause corrosion, sticky valves, plugged filters, and change in oil viscosity. However, some hydraulic fluids are
not hydrolytically stable (see Specification D 4293). Hydrolytic stability may be evaluated by the Beverage Bottle Test (Test
Method D 2619) where the hydraulic fluid and water are heated at 200°F for 48 h in the presence of a copper test specimen.
Changes in viscosity and acid number of the fluid and acid number of the aqueous layer are determined after the test. Copper
weight change and appearance are also measured.
6.3.3 Water Content (Test Methods D 1123, D 1533, D 6304, D 95, and E 203)—The presence of water in a hydraulic oil, which
may be present due to condensation or a leaking heat exchanger, presents a potentially serious problem. Test Methods D 1123,
D 1533, and D 6304 are quantitative tests for water content which uses the reaction of water with Karl Fischer chemical reagent
as its basis, and a coulometric end point as the measurement. Test Method D 1533 is used for water contents <200 ppm and Test
Method D 6304 is used when the water content is in the range from 10 to 25 000 mg/kg (0.1 mass %). The components of some
fluids may react with the reagent to give misleading results.
6.3.3.1 Test Method E 203 is intended as a general guide for the application of the volumetric Karl Fischer (KF) titration for
determining free water and water of hydration in most solid or liquid organic and inorganic compounds. This test method is
designed for use with automatic titration systems capable of determining the KF titration end point amperometrically; however,
a manual titration method for determining the end point visually is included. This test method covers the use of both
pyridine-containing and pyridine-free KF reagents for determining water by volumetric titration. Determination of water using KF
coulometric titration is not discussed. By proper choice of the sample size, KF reagent concentration, and apparatus, this test
method is suitable for measurement of water over a wide concentration range, that is, from parts per million to pure water.
6.3.3.2 For relatively high concentrations of water, Test Method D 95, using distillation, a distillation method, may be used for
water concentrations of 0–25 %. (Test Method E 203 is useful for water contcentrations varying from the parts per million (ppm)
range to pure water.)
6.3.3.3 Fire-resistant hydraulic fluids, including HFA, HFB, and HFC fluids, have water contents of $35 %. In these fluids,
water is not a contaminant but a necessary component and the water concentration must be determined and maintained to ensure
adequate fire resistance and hydraulic system performance. Water content may be determined by azeotropic distillation according
to Test Method D 95 or by Karl Fischer Analysis according to Test Method E 203.
6.3.4 Ash Content (Test Method D 482)—Test Method D 482 covers the determination of ash in the range from 0.001 to 0.180
mass %, from distillate and residual fuels, gas turbine fuels, crude oils, lubricating oils, waxes, and other petroleum products, in
which any ash-forming materials present are normally considered to be undesirable impurities or contaminants (see Note 6). This
test method is limited to petroleum products which are free from added ash-forming additives, including certain phosphorus
compounds (see Note 7).
NOTE 6—In certain types of samples, all of the ash-forming metals are not retained quantitatively in the ash. This is particularly true of distillate oils,
which require a special ash procedure in order to retain metals quantitatively.
NOTE 7—This test method is not intended for the analysis of unused lubricating oils containing additives; for such samples, use Test Method D 874
(see 6.3.5). Neither is it intended for the analysis of lubricating oils containing lead nor for used engine crankcase oils.
6.3.5 Sulfated Ash Content (Test Method D 874)—Test Method D 874 covers the determination of the sulfated ash from unused
lubricating oils, such as hydraulic fluids, containing additives and from additive concentrates used in compounding. These
additives usually contain one or more of the following metals: barium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, sodium, and tin.
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D 6813 – 02a
NOTE 8—This test method is not intended for the analysis of used engine oils or oils containing lead. Neither is it recommended for the analysis of
nonadditive lubricating oils, for which Test Method D 482 can be used.
NOTE 9—There is evidence that magnesium does not react the same as other alkali metals in this test method. If magnesium additives are present, the
data should be interpreted with caution.
NOTE 10—There is evidence that samples containing molybdenum or boron can give low results because compounds of these metals are not fully
recovered at the temperature of ashing.
6.3.6 pH Determination (Test Method E 70)—Test Method E 70 specifies the apparatus and procedures for the electrometric
measurement of pH values of aqueous solutions with the glass electrode. It does not deal with the manner in which the solutions
are prepared. The pH measurements of good precision can be made in aqueous solutions containing high concentrations of
electrolytes or water-soluble organic compounds, or both. It should be understood, however, that pH measurements in such
solutions are only a semiquantitative indication of hydrogen ion concentration or activity. The measured pH will yield an accurate
result for these quantities only when the composition of the medium matches approximately that of the standard reference
solutions. In general, this test method will not give an accurate measure of hydrogen ion activity unless the pH lies between 2 and
12 and the concentration of neither electrolytes nor nonelectrolytes exceeds 0.1 M.
6.3.7 Alkaline Reserve to pH 5.5 (Test Method D 1121)—Many water-containing hydraulic fluids, such as HFC fluids, contain
amines or basic salts as corrosion inhibitors. The total inhibitor content may be quantitatively determined using a titrimetric
procedure by titrating to a pH of 5.5 using 0.1 N HCl and a glass electrode. This procedure is described in Test Method D 1121.
6.3.8 Aniline Point (Test Method D 611)—Elastomer compatibility is affected by the composition of the mineral oil. The
potential for a mineral oil to cause swelling or shrinkage of a seal is important if optimal seal strength is to be maintained and
leakage is to be minimized. One of the oldest methods of estimating hydraulic seal compatibility with a mineral oil is the aniline
point of the fluid. Generally, fluids with low aniline points cause the highest swelling with neoprene and BUNA-N nitrile rubber
(see Note 11) and fluids with high aniline points may cause seal shrinkage.
6.3.8.1 The aniline point (or mixed aniline point) described by Test Method D 611 is useful as an aid in the characterization of
pure hydrocarbons and in the analysis of hydrocarbon mixtures. The test is conducted with specified volumes of aniline and sample,
or aniline and sample plus n-heptane, which are placed in a tube and mixed mechanically. The mixture is heated at a controlled
rate until the two phases become miscible. The mixture is then cooled at a controlled rate and the temperature at which two phases
separate is recorded as the aniline point or mixed aniline point. Aromatic hydrocarbons exhibit the lowest, and paraffins the highest
values. Cycloparaffins and olefins exhibit values that lie between those for paraffins and aromatics.
NOTE 11—Although generally true, it has not been possible to calibrate the aniline point of an oil to predict the swelling of various elastomeric seal
compositions with respect to different base oils and additive combinations. For example, ester-based hydraulic fluids often aid seal swell problems and
they may be used to counteract the tendency of hydrocarbon-based fluids to shrink seals. Also, some fluids contain seal swell additives.
6.4 Tests for Thermal and Oxidation Stability:
6.4.1 Thermal Stability—Cincinnati Milacron Test (Test Method D 2070)—The thermal degradation of a lubricant can yield
by-products which corrode metals, as well as insoluble materials which plug filters and block narrow clearances. This test method
is designed primarily to evaluate the thermal stability of hydrocarbon-based hydraulic oils in the presence of copper and steel at
135°C although oxidation may occur during the test. The colors of the test rods are the evaluation criteria. The tendency of oils
to form sludge at high temperatures in the absence of water and in the presence of iron and copper is also reported.
6.4.2 Oxidation Stability—Turbine Oil Stability Test (Test Method D 943)—Oxidation of the oil may increase oil viscosity,
produce sludge that can make valves stick and plug filters, and generate materials which are corrosive to metals. Test Method
D 943, also known as Turbine Oil Stability Test (TOST), measures the time that the oil resists oxidation in the presence of oxygen,
water, and metal catalysts. It should be recognized, however, that correlation between results of this test method and the oxidation
stability of a lubricant in field service can vary markedly with field service conditions. This test method does not measure sludge
formation or catalyst coil corrosion (see Test Method D 4310).
6.4.3 Oxidation Stability (Test Method D 2272)—This test, familiarly known as the Rotating Bomb Oxidation Test (RBOT),
utilizes an oxygen-pressured vessel to evaluate the oxidation stability of new and in-service turbine oils having the same
composition (base stock and additives) in the presence of water and a copper catalyst coil at 150°C. The estimate of oxidation
stability is useful in controlling the continuity of this property for batch acceptance of production lots having the same operation.
This test method is also used to assess the remaining oxidation life of in-service oils. Although it was developed for turbine oils,
it is routinely used for other industrial lubricants, including hydraulic oils.
6.4.4 Oxidation Stability—Baader Test (DIN 51554-3)—Neither Test Method D 943 (TOST) nor Test Method D 2272 (RBOT)
discussed in 6.4.2 and 6.4.3 is suitable for use with hydrolytically unstable hydraulic fluids such as vegetable oil-based fluids,
synthetic esters, or polyol esters, since water is used as a component of the test procedure (see Note 12). One test that has been
used to determine the oxidative stability of hydrolytically sensitive fluids is DIN 51554-3, also known as the Baader test. It is
conducted at 95°C for three days in the presence of air and a copper wire catalyst. At that point, the fluid is visually examined and
then the saponification number is determined.
NOTE 12—Recent work in ASTM D02.N0.03 has shown that if Test Method D 943 is conducted without the addition of water (dry), this modified test
provides a suitable assessment of the oxidative stability of vegetable oils.
6.4.5 Oxidation Stability of Phosphate Ester Fluids (DIN 51373)—Another test that is reported in ISO 12922 for determination
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D 6813 – 02a
of the oxidative stability of fire-resistant phosphate ester-based hydraulic fluids is DIN 51373. This test method characterizes
resistance to oxidation and provides a measure of resistance to corrosion of copper and steel. This test is performed by passing
oxygen at 1 L/h for 164 h through the test solution while maintaining the temperature at 120°C. Volatile acidic by-products are
collected in water contained in a downstream absorption tube. At the conclusion of the test, the acid number is determined in the
test fluid and the acids collected in the absorption tube are titrated with base and reported as mg KOH/g of the test fluid. The change
in mass of the copper and iron specimens is determined.
6.4.6 Sludging Tendency (Test Method D 4310)—As stated in Oxidation Stability (Test Method D 943), insoluble or corrosive
materials may form in oils when they are subjected to oxidation conditions. This 1000-h test determines the tendency of oil to form
sludge in the presence of oxygen, water, and metal catalysts. Test Method D 4310 also measures the total copper present in the
oil, water, and sludge phases. It is a complement to Test Method D 943.
6.5 Typical Corrosion Properties :
6.5.1 Rust Preventing Characteristics (Test Method D 665)—This test method measures the ability of the oil to prevent rusting
of steel surfaces when water is present. Procedure A uses distilled water, and Procedure B uses synthetic sea water. The procedure
also provides for testing heavier-than-water fluids.
6.5.2 Copper Corrosion Characteristics (Test Method D 130)—Some components of hydraulic systems contain copper alloys
(for example, vane pump bushings and piston pump shoes). This test method covers the detection of the corrosiveness to copper
of hydraulic oils and other hydrocarbons having a Reid vapor pressure no greater than 18 psi (124 kPa).
6.5.3 Vapor Phase Corrosion Characteristics (Test Method D 5534)—Test Method D 5534 evaluates the ability of a
water-containing hydraulic fluid to prevent rusting of steel in the vapor phase over the hydraulic fluid and water.
6.5.4 Determination of the Corrosion-Inhibiting Properties of Fluids (Test Method LUX 5.9)—It is important that fire-resistant
hydraulic fluids do not cause corrosion of the equipment in which they are used. The tests described in Section 5.9 of the Seventh
Luxembourg Report (also see ISO 4404) are designed to determine corrosion-inhibiting properties of the fluids in contact with
selected metals or metal pairs.
6.5.4.1 One of the testing methods described is characterized by a low test temperature (35°) and a long duration of 28 days.
The second testing method is similar except a higher testing temperature (60°C) and a shorter testing time of 14 days is used.
6.5.5 Galvanic Corrosion (Test Method D 6547)—Galvanic corrosion is recognizable by the appearance of increased corrosion
near the junction of dissimilar metals. This is caused by an electrochemical reaction between metals. The propensity for galvanic
corrosion is dependent on the position of the two metals in the galvanic series. Any metal will have a greater tendency to corrode
when it is in contact with another metal in a lower position in the series in the presence of an electrolyte. The farther apart the
two metals in the series, the greater the potential for galvanic attack.
6.5.5.1 Test Method D 6547 provides a test method for determination of the corrosiveness of hydraulic and lubricating fluids
to a brass on steel galvanic couple at ambient temperature and 50 % relative humidity. This test method consists of fitting a brass
clip to the fluid-coated surface of a steel disk, storing the assembly at approximately 50 % relative humidity for ten days, and
visually inspecting the assembly for evidence of galvanic corrosion.
6.6 Selected Tests for Fire Resistance— Fire resistance tests are established by various authorities, depending on the industry
and country where the hydraulic fluid will be used. An exhaustive global listing of these tests is beyond the scope of this guide.
Ref (2) provides a more comprehensive overview of fire-resistance testing than is possible here (2). However, assessment of fire
resistance is often a criterion of fluid selection. Therefore, some of the more common tests used in Europe and the United States
are provided for reference in Table 1.
6.6.1 Flash Point and Fire Point (Test Methods D 92 and D 93)—Flash point is defined as the lowest temperature corrected to
barometric pressure of 101.3 kPa (760 mm Hg) at which the application of an ignition source causes the vapors of a test specimen
of the sample to ignite under specified conditions of the test. Experimentally, the flash point is determined by passing a flame over
a test specimen contained in a test cup and heated at a constant rate. The flash point is determined to be that temperature where
the fluid will flash but not continue to burn when a flame is passed over the cup. It is indirectly a measure of both the volatility
of the oil and flammability of the volatiles contained therein. The fire point of a fluid is defined as the lowest temperature corrected
to barometric pressure of 101.3 kPa (760 mm Hg) at which the application of an ignition source causes the vapors of a test
specimen of the sample to ignite and sustain burning for a minimum of 5 s under specified conditions of the test.
6.6.1.1 Test Method D 92 describes the determination of flash and fire points of a fluid using the Cleveland Open Cup (COC)
test procedure. Test Methods D 93 describes the determination of flash point under closed cup conditions using the Pensky-Martens
Closed Cup Tester.
6.6.2 Autoignition Temperature (Test Method E 659)—Autoignition is the temperature at which the fluid will ignite
spontaneously in contact with air. This test method covers the determination of hot- and cool-flame autoignition temperatures of
a liquid chemical in air at atmospheric pressure in a uniformly heated vessel.
6.6.3 Linear Flame Propagation Test (Test Method D 5306) —Test Method D 5306 covers the determination of linear flame
propagation rates of hydraulic fluids supported on the surfaces of, and when impregnated into, ceramic fiber media. The linear
flame propagation rate is a property that is relevant to the overall assessment of the flammability or relative ignitability of
fire-resistant hydraulic fluids.
6.6.4 Other Fire Resistance Testing Methods—Various fire resistance tests are summarized in Table 1. However, two of the most
14
D 6813 – 02a
common testing procedures encountered in the United States are the Factory Mutual Test 6930 and the Mine Safety and Health
Administration (MSHA) tests cited in CFR Part 35(3) .
6.6.4.1 Factory Mutual Test Method D 6930 (4)—This is a two part test procedure. The first part is a hot channel spray
flammability test where the hydraulic fluid is sprayed onto a metal surface for 60 s, after it is preheated to 1300°F (704°C) and
the burners are turned off. In order to be considered a “pass” in this test, the fluid must not propagate and must not follow the spray
source. The second part is a spray ignition flammability test where a propane torch flame is rotated through a spray of the hydraulic
fluid. The fluid spray flame, if established, must be self-extinguishing within 5 s after removal of the ignition source in order to
be considered a “pass.”
6.6.4.2 Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) CFR Part 35 Test Method (3)—The CFR Part 35 Test Method contains
three parts and a hydraulic fluid must pass all three parts. The first part is an autoignition temperature (AIT) test which is conducted
according to Test Method E 659. If the AIT is >600°F, the fluid is considered a “pass.” The second part is a temperature-pressure
spray ignition test. If the fluid flame, if formed, self-extinguishes in <1 min, it is considered a “pass.” The third part of this test
evaluates the effect of evaporation on flammability. It is also commonly called the “pipe cleaner” test. In this test, a pipe cleaner
saturated with the hydraulic fluid being tested is cycled through a Bunsen burner flame at 25 6 2 cycles/min. To be considered
a “pass,” the average number of cycles through the flame before ignition shall be at least 24.
6.7 Biodegradability and Aqueous Toxicity—Although the biodegradability and ecotoxicity properties of a hydraulic fluid do
not dictate their performance in a hydraulic pump, they are often important screening properties. In many cases, if a hydraulic fluid
does not exhibit acceptable biodegradability and ecotoxicity, it will be rejected and not be evaluated in expensive and
time-consuming pump tests.
6.7.1 Biodegradability (Guide D 6006)—Guide D 6006 provides information to assist in judging the biodegradability of an
unused fully formulated hydraulic fluid in its original form. Biodegradability is one of three characteristics which are assessed
when judging the environmental impact of a hydraulic fluid. The other two characteristics are ecotoxicity and bioaccumulation.
Biodegradability may be considered by type of environmental compartment: aerobic fresh water, aerobic marine, aerobic soil, and
anaerobic media. Test methods for aerobic fresh water- , aerobic soil and anaerobic media have been developed that are appropriate
for the concerns and needs of testing in these compartments.
6.7.1.1 Guide D 6006 addresses releases to the environment that are incidental to the use of a hydraulic fluid but is not intended
to cover situations of major, accidental release. Nothing in this guide should be taken to relieve the user of the responsibility to
properly use and dispose of hydraulic fluids.
6.7.2 Classification of Fluids for Environmental Impact (Classification D 6046)—This classification establishes a framework to
categorize the biodegradability, toxicity, and bioaccumulation impact of hydraulic fluids on different environmental compartments.
Fluids are assigned designations within these categories; for example Pw1, Tw2, and so forth, based on performance in specified
tests.
6.7.3 In the current version of this classification, the aspects of environmental impact included are environmental persistence
(biodegradability) and acute ecotoxicity. Although environmental persistence is discussed first, this classification does not imply
that considerations of environmental persistence should take precedence over concerns for ecotoxicity. Another important aspect
of environmental impact is bioaccumulation. This aspect is not addressed in the present classification because adequate test
methods do not yet exist to measure bioaccumulation of hydraulic fluids. The present classification addresses the fresh water and
soil environmental compartments. At this time marine and anaerobic environmental compartments are not included, although they
are pertinent for many uses of hydraulic fluids. Hydraulic fluids are expected to have no significant impact on the atmosphere;
therefore, that compartment is not addressed.
NOTE 13—This classification addresses the potential impact of releases to the environment which are incidental to the use of a hydraulic fluid. The
classification is not intended to address environmental impact in situations of major, accidental release.
6.8 Filterability—Petroleum oil may be difficult to filter in the presence of small amounts (<2 %) of water. In some cases, this
may result in plugging of system filters which may result in increased abrasive wear of the hydraulic system components. It should
be noted that filterability is not a physical characteristic of the oil but represents an estimation of its behavior in service. Therefore,
an assessment of the filterability of hydraulic oils is very important.
6.8.1 Filterability (AFNOR Test Methods NF E48-690, NF E48-691, NF E48-692, ISO 13357-2—Fluid filterability for
petroleum oil-derived fluids is measured using a filtration membrane made of mixed cellulose esters for AFNOR NF E48-690 and
AFNOR NF E48-691. The membrane area (47 mm diameter) and pore size (0.8 µm) are defined (Millipore AA WP 047 IF). The
AFNOR NF E48-690 test method is used to assess the filterability of an oil which will be used in applications where the presence
of water in the oil is unlikely. The AFNOR NF E48-691 test method is used for assessing the filterability of oils that have been
heat-soaked in the presence of water contamination.
NOTE 14—It is not impossible for an oil to have poor filterability when dry, but good filterability when wet although it is unlikely that such an oil would
be generally acceptable.
6.8.1.1 The “wet” oil samples are prepared by mixing 330 mL of oil with 66 mL of water and then heat the mixed sample in
an oven at 70°C for 2 h. The sample is removed from the oven, stirred again and then returned to the oven for 70 h at which time
the sample is removed from the oven and stored at ambient temperature in the dark for 24 h at which time it is ready for filterability
15
D 6813 – 02a
testing. In the AFNOR test methods, the rate of filtration near the beginning of the test is measured, and compared with the mean
filtration rate throughout the test, or with the rate at the end of the test. The filterability calculation procedure affords a value that
is independent of fluid viscosity, however, a constant fluid temperature must be maintained throughout the test.
6.8.1.2 Alternatively, filterability of petroleum oil hydraulic fluids may be assessed using ISO 13357-2. As with the AFNOR
procedures above, these test methods are not suitable for use with HFC and HFD fire-resistant fluids due to their incompatibility
with the filter material.
NOTE 15—The AFNOR NF E48-69 (ISO 13357-2) and AFNOR NF E48-691 test procedures are not suitable for some hydraulic oils on which specific
properties have been conferred by the use of insoluble/partially soluble additives, or by particularly large molecular species.
6.8.1.3 For fire-resistant fluids, HFC and HFD, a filter membrane made of polytetrafluoroethylene (Millipore Fluoropore FALP
047 IF) is used for AFNOR NF E48-692. Both the membrane area (47 mm diameter) and pore size (1 µm) are defined.
6.9 Anti-wear Performance—Preliminary assessment of the lubricating performance of a hydraulic fluid is typically performed
prior to conducting relatively expensive and time-consuming piston pump tests. These preliminary tests can be classified as
“bench” tests and “pump” tests. The bench tests are standardized lubrication tests and the most commonly encountered are
described in 6.9.1. The most common pump tests used for hydraulic fluid lubrication testing are either the Test Method D 2882
vane pump test or the Eaton 35VQ25 vane pump test (5) .
NOTE 16—The vane pump tests described in 6.9 for assessing hydraulic fluid lubrication provide an excellent indication of anti-wear performance under
pure sliding conditions. Such information is a useful indicator for lubrication wear at sliding contacts in a piston pump which include: the interface
between the piston and the cylinder block, the interface between the piston and the swash plate for some axial piston pumps, the interface between the
rotary valve plate and pump housing, and other wear surfaces. However, correlation must be established by either experiment or experience.
6.9.1 Assessment of Anti-wear and EP Performance—Bench Tests:
6.9.1.1 Shell Four-Ball Tests (Test Methods D 2783 and D 4172)—Although of limited value for water-containing fluids due to
lack of fluid temperature control, four-ball tests may provide a useful preliminary evaluation of the lubricating properties of a
hydraulic fluid.
(1) Evaluation of Extreme Pressure (Load Carrying) Properties by the Four Ball Method (Test Method D 2783)— This test
method covers the determination of the load-carrying properties of lubricating fluids including hydraulic fluids. Two
determinations are made: load-wear index (formerly Mean-Hertz load) and the weld point by means of the four-ball
extreme-pressure (EP) tester.
(2) Evaluation of Anti-wear Properties by the Four-Ball Method—(Test Method D 4172)—This test method covers a procedure
for making a preliminary evaluation of the anti-wear properties of fluid lubricants in sliding contact by means of the Four-Ball
Wear Test Machine.
6.9.1.2 FZG Test (Test Method D 5182) —This test method, the Forschungstelle fur Zahnrader und Getriebebau (Research Site
for Gears and Transmissions) Visual Method, commonly referred to as the FZG Visual Method, is intended to measure the scuffing
load capacity of oils used to lubricate hardened steel gears. It is primarily used to assess the resistance to scuffing of mild additive
treated oils such as industrial gear oils and transmission fluids. This test is widely used to predict anti-wear performance of
hydraulic oils in vane pumps.
6.10 Assessment of Anti-wear Performance—Vane Pump Tests:
6.10.1 Anti-wear Performance (Test Method D 2882)—Hydraulic systems running at high pressures, designed with small
clearances and subject to metal-to-metal contact (for example, vane, gear, and piston pumps) should use fluids that have anti-wear
properties. Test Method D 2882 is a constant-volume vane pump test based on the Eaton V104C vane pump (see Note 17). The
evaluation parameter is the total weight loss of the ring and vanes. The test rig simulates anti-wear performance provided by a
hydraulic fluid at a sliding wear contact in small hydraulic systems.
NOTE 17—Various national test methods have been issued based on the Eaton V-104C pump but with slightly varying test conditions. A summary of
various test methods and testing conditions is provided in Table 2.
NOTE 18—Test Method D 2882 is based on the use of the Eaton V104C vane pump. However, the V104 pump and components are no longer available
from Eaton. Therefore, this test is currently being performed with replacement parts which are similar but not identical to certified Eaton replacement
parts.
TABLE 2 Current Pump Testing Procedures Based on the Eaton V-104 Vane Pump
Inlet Temperature
Fluid Volume, Time, Pump Speed, Outlet Pressure, Power Requirement,
Procedure or Viscosity,A
L h rpm bar kW
C/cSt
B
ASTM D 2882 57 100 1200 140 7
DIN 51389/2C 70 250 1500 140 13 cSt 7
DIN 51389/3C 70 250 1500 105 13 cSt 7
IP 281 70 250 1500 102 13 cSt 7
CETOP RP 67 70 250 1500 102 13 cSt 7
A
Test Method D 2882 specifies the operating conditions by fluid temperature where the DIN 51389, IP 281, and CETOP methods specify that the running temperature
will be selected to provide a fluid viscosity of 13 cSt.
B
Fluid temperature at the pump inlet is 66 6 3°C (150 6 5°F) for all water glycols, emulsions, and other water-containing fluids and for petroleum and synthetic fluids
with 66 6 3°C (150 6 5°F) viscosities of 46 cSt (213 SUS) or less. A temperature of 80 6 3°C (175 6 5°F) is used for all other synthetic and petroleum fluids.
C
This is the test method for mineral oil hydraulic fluids. DIN 51389/3 is the method for fire-resistant fluids.
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D 6813 – 02a
6.10.2 Eaton 35VQ25 Vane Pump Test—For many higher pressure and higher speed operating conditions, a more rigorous
assessment of hydraulic fluid anti-wear properties is necessary. Therefore, Vickers Inc. developed the 35VQ25 vane pump test
(now designated as the Eaton 35VQ35 vane pump test, to provide the most severe evaluation of hydraulic fluid anti-wear
performance in a Vickers intravane pump (5). The procedure for this test is outlined in Vickers Form No. M-2952-S, now published
by Eaton Corporation (6). The test procedure involves the use of an Eaton 35VQ35 fixed displacement (81 cm3/rev) vane pump
as the test pump. This pump utilizes an intravane design replaceable cartridge which is rated at 2500 rpm and 207 bar (3000 psi).
The test procedure utilizes a minimum of three vane pump cartridges which are tested at 50 h each. The 50 h test duration includes
a one hour plus break-in period to allow the inlet fluid temperature and outlet pressure to be increased to the final test conditions
shown in Table 3. The remainder of the test is conducted in the steady-state mode.
7. Pump Testing Procedures
7.1 Although numerous pump tests may be devised, most are based on one, or combinations of two or more, of three testing
strategies. These include:
7.1.1 Cycled Load (Pressure)—A pump test may be run by cycling between a higher and a lower pressure at a constant volume.
This type of test procedure is beneficial because cycling the pressure affects the control system, slipper contact varies, fluids change
characteristics under pressure (for example, cavitation, aeration), it evaluates cradle bearing scuffing, it provides acceleration and
deceleration of the fluid, it provides case pressure spikes, and it is representative of the “real world.” Deficiencies of cycled
pressure tests are that this procedure stresses the bearing and yoke assembly more than the fluid life; cost for a robust stand; and
less time at maximum and minimum shear and stress.
7.1.2 Cycled Volume—A cycled volume test is conducted by alternating between a minimum and maximum volume per stroke
and is conducted at a constant pressure. This type of test influences component life more than providing maximum stress on the
fluid to evaluate fluid life properties. The advantages and disadvantages are essentially analogous to those described in 7.1.1.
7.1.3 Constant Pressure and Constant Volume—For the greatest stress on the hydraulic fluid, it is recommended that the pump
be run at a constant pressure and volume at a maximum temperature. If low-temperature wear is a concern, then a low fluid
temperature cycle may need to be included, probably at the beginning of the test. Experience has shown that most wear occurs at
the beginning of the test during “break in,” unless the fluid is deficient at the selected operating conditions or reaches the end of
its useful life during the test.
7.1.3.1 Advantages of the constant pressure test include: lower cost, simpler test stand; more durable test stand and higher stress
on the hydraulic oil (maximum shearing and temperature rise). Variation in the system pressure load will not provide any additional
information about the fluid properties. Many people believe that since the pressure inside of the cylinders is fluctuating, there is
no need to further complicate the system with additional pressure changes. The primary disadvantage of the constant pressure test
is that this testing procedure is not representative of common “real world” applications.
8. Pump Stand Design
8.1 Various pump testing procedures have been reported for use in evaluating components under different operating conditions.
Three standards that describe different testing procedures but which are useful references in test design development are: SAE
J745, ANSI/(NFPA)T3.9.20 and ANSI/(NFPA)T3.9.33. As indicated in Section 7, there are numerous testing variations that may
be selected depending on the objective of the piston pump test being performed. ANSI/JIC T2.24.1 provides basic guidance in the
preparation of detailed equipment specifications, and promotes personnel safety, and proper use of hydraulic equipment. The most
critical parameters that must be monitored for any test are discussed throughout Section 8.
8.2 Fluid Residence Time (Reservoir Size)—The reservoir for the test stand should be of sufficient size to accommodate fluid
cooling and air release (7). However, the reservoir should also be sufficiently small to simulate the reservoir of an actual system
that would provide a fluid turnover time of 20 s or three times per minute.
NOTE 19—The desired reservoir volume (VR) can be calculated from the flow rate: (V/min) where VR– 3V. This simple calculation means that ideally
the total volume of the reservoir should turn over at least three (3) times per minute which is a common recommendation used for mobile hydraulic units
(8).
NOTE 20—Typically, the reservoir volume in actual hydraulic systems may vary from as small as 1 to 1.5 times the flow rate for mobile systems up
to 2 to 4 times the flow rate for industrial stationary systems. It is important that the heat exchanger capacity be sufficient to provide the necessary
temperature control of the hydraulic fluid, particularly when smaller reservoirs are used (see 8.4).
8.2.1 Additional recommended reservoir design features include (9):
8.2.1.1 The suction feeds to the hydraulic pump shall be located such that adequate fluid supply to the operating circuit is
maintained at the minimum operating fluid level and that air ingression and the formation of vortices in the fluid are eliminated.
TABLE 3 Steady-State Operating Conditions for the Eaton

35VQ35 Vane Pump Test
Speed 2400 rpm
Outlet Pressure 207 bar gage
Inlet Pressure 0 to 0.15 bar gage with flooded unit
Inlet Temperature 93°C
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D 6813 – 02a
8.2.1.2 Return feeds to the reservoir shall be discharged below the operating fluid level.
8.2.1.3 Return feeds to the reservoir shall discharge at the lowest practical velocity and shall promote the desired circulation
pattern within the reservoir and shall not promote air entrainment.
8.2.1.4 The reservoir configuration shall be such that contaminants cannot be resuspended in the system fluid.
8.2.2 To facilitate air release of the hydraulic fluid returning to the reservoir before it re-enters the inlet, it is recommended that
proper reservoir baffling be used. There are a number of possible designs; and one design is shown in Fig. 4 (10) . It is
recommended that reservoir design be reviewed with the pump manufacturer before initiating the test program.
8.2.3 ANSI (NFPA)T3.16.2 provides some useful guidelines for the design, construction, and selection of reservoirs. Also
included in this document are descriptions of proper function and maintenance of hydraulic reservoirs.
8.3 Inlet Piping Requirements (8)—The suction line into the reservoir for the hydraulic pump must be adequately submerged
to prevent vortexing. The following rules from the Lightning Reference Handbook (8) have been offered as guidelines to prevent
vortexing:
8.3.1 Design intake lines for the minimum possible velocity, <4 ft/s.
8.3.2 Ensure that the intake line is submerged 1.75 to 2 times the intake line inside diameter.
8.3.3 Use bell-mouthed fittings on intake pipes to reduce intake velocity at point of entry below the pipe velocity.
8.3.4 Ensure that the intake pipe is 5 to 6 times the pipe inside diameter away from the nearest reservoir wall on at least one
side.
8.3.5 Ensure that the intake pipe is no closer to the reservoir bottom than the pipe (inside diameter/2).
8.4 Hydraulic Oil Temperature—The pump inlet oil temperature should be the maximum allowed by the pump manufacturer
or equipment manufacturer. The purpose is to test the thermal and oxidative stability of the fluid which affects deposit formation,
corrosion, and filter plugging. This is normally approximately 90 to 95°C for anhydrous fluids. Water-containing fluids must be
tested at a lower temperature and the temperature that should be used is that specified for this class of fluids by the hydraulic pump
manufacturer.
8.4.1 Both the fluid reservoir temperature (or pump inlet oil temperature) and the case drain oil temperature should be recorded.
Typically, the case drain oil temperature is approximately 10 to 20°C higher than the pump inlet temperature.
NOTE 21—The recommended fluid viscosity and viscosity limits for the pump being tested should be obtained from the pump manufacturer. Typically,
FIG. 4 Illustration of a Reservoir Baffling Design that Has Been Recommended
18
D 6813 – 02a
the recommended maximum oil temperature is that value that provides a fluid viscosity of 8 to 10 cSt. However, testing may be conducted at a higher
temperature that provides a fluid viscosity of 6 to 7 cSt. However, if the fluid viscosity is 6 to 7 cSt, a high-performance hydraulic oil with an anti-wear
additive system is typically required.
8.5 Pump Inlet Condition—If the hydraulic fluid cannot be supplied to the pumping chambers of the pump at a sufficient rate,
there is significant danger that the pump will cavitate. The fluid flow versus shaft speed for a typical hydraulic pump will be linear
up to the point where the fluid can no longer enter the pumping chambers of the pump as they are opened and closed because of
shaft rotation. When this occurs, the chambers will only partially fill and the outlet flow will be reduced. Under these conditions,
the pump will be starved for fluid. The speed where this starvation will occur depends on the viscosity and density of the hydraulic
fluid as well as the physical configuration of the pump inlet and connecting lines. Therefore, it is necessary to size the inlet piping
and to properly position the pump relative to the reservoir such that the inlet pressure to the pump is positive.
8.5.1 The pressure at the inlet to the pump is normally called the Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) and may be calculated in
terms of absolute pressure (11). The entire system from the fluid level in the reservoir to the inlet of the pump must be taken into
account when determining the NPSH as illustrated in Fig. 5. The primary factors are:
8.5.1.1 The atmospheric head or the atmospheric pressure at the particular location (HA).
8.5.1.2 The friction head or the pressure needed to overcome the losses due to friction when the fluid is flowing through the
intake pipe, fittings, valves, and area changes (HF).
8.5.1.3 Static inlet head or vertical distance from the centerline of the pump inlet to the free surface level in the reservoir (H
S).
8.5.1.4 The vapor pressure of the fluid at the fluid temperature (HVP).
8.5.2 These parameters can be used to calculate the NPSH according to the equation:
NPSH 5 H A 1 HS 2 HF 2 H VP (9)
8.5.2.1 The vapor pressure (HVP) that must be used in this calculation is the vapor pressure of the fluid at the inlet (reservoir)
temperature. This can be a substantial negative contribution, particularly for water-containing fluids at elevated temperatures.
8.5.2.2 It is important to maintain a positive inlet pressure. However, the actual inlet pressure that must be maintained to prevent
cavitation is specific to the piston pump design, and this value should be obtained with respect to the hydraulic test circuit from
the pump manufacturer. If insufficient inlet pressure cannot be achieved by repositioning the pump relative to the reservoir, then
it may be necessary to “supercharge” the inlet using an auxiliary feed pump.
8.5.2.3 It is also recommended that the suction feed to the operating circuit be sized to limit the pump intake velocity to 1.2
m/s (4 ft/s) (9).
NOTE 22—The auxiliary pump must have a net positive suction head at its inlet also.
8.6 Intake Line Placement—Ensure that the inlet pipe is 5 to 6 times the pipe inside diameter from the nearest obstruction. (An
obstruction would include: elbow, joint, or any obstruction to flow.) The inlet pipe should not be closer to the reservoir bottom than
the inside diameter of the inlet pipe/2.
FIG. 5 Illustration of NPSH Parameters
19
D 6813 – 02a
8.7 Pump Metallurgy—The metallurgy of the critical material pairs of the pump being used are important and may affect wear
performance. Critical material pairs include: wear plate/shoe interface, port plate/face plate interface, piston/barrel sleeve, cylinder
block, pistons, shoes, valve plate, rolling element bearings, shaft seals, and the like.
9. Fluid Specification Requirements
9.1 Importance of Viscosity—Temperature Properties —One of the most important fundamental physical properties of a
hydraulic fluid is viscosity. Fluid viscosity affects both operational characteristics of the hydraulic system and the lubrication
properties of the fluid.
9.1.1 Maximum and minimum viscosity limits for hydraulic pumps are dependent on pump design and these values are
obtainable from the manufacturer of the piston pump being tested. The maximum fluid viscosity that can be used is known as “cold
start” viscosity.
9.1.2 The effect of temperature and pressure on the pumpability of a hydraulic fluid must also be considered. There is typically
an optimal range for proper operation of a hydraulic pump. For example, at very low temperatures, increased fluid viscosity leads
to cavitation, and at excessively high temperatures, insufficient fluid viscosity results in pump slippage and loss of efficiency and
also loss of lubrication leading to wear.
9.1.3 Although the pump manufacturer will have a recommended operating fluid viscosity range, there are trade-offs. A higher
fluid viscosity grade will exhibit lower oxidative stability, poorer heat transfer, and slower air release, but the lower viscosity grade
will stress the anti-wear performance. Both extremes affect cavitation. Therefore, the effects of both temperature and viscosity of
a hydraulic fluid on performance must be considered.
9.2 Contamination Levels—Hard solid particles, especially those larger than 10 µ, cause abrasive wear not only in the hydraulic
pump but also within the system components such as valves, and so on, and should be monitored during a pump test. Particle
generation is high at the beginning of the pump test and usually declines through the test. At the end of the test, very low particle
concentrations are expected if the system has appropriate filtration. The best way to obtain reliable data is by in-line counting.
Off-line bottle sampling is subject to many errors.
9.2.1 Cleanliness requirements are determined by the equipment specifications available from the piston pump supplier. Some
recommendations are provided in DIN 51515. It is important to have a good filtration in the test system to provide adequate system
cleanliness. System cleanliness requirements will be determined by reviewing the pump manufacturer recommendations.
Generally, the filter rating shall include a Beta rating of at least 75 to obtain the appropriate ISO particle count rating.
9.2.2 The hydraulic oil may contain “typical” concentrations of water which that shall be determined using Karl Fischer analysis
(see 6.3.3). Typically, new, unused mineral-base hydraulic oils contain 0.04 to 0.1 % water (100 to 300 ppm is typical for anti-wear
hydraulic oils which have less than 1 wt % compounding).
10. Pump Test Monitoring and Evaluation
10.1 Various operational parameters may be monitored throughout the pump test. These parameters are summarized in
10.1.1-10.1.6.
10.1.1 Vibrational Analysis—Sources of system noise and vibration may be mechanical or fluid-borne.
10.1.2 Mechanical Noise—Sources of mechanical vibrations include vibrating surfaces from pressure fluctuations emanating
from pistons, unbalanced rotational vibrations, or vibrating pipe walls. For example, increased vibration of the pump case may
indicate wear of the shaft/bearing pair.
10.1.3 Fluid-Borne Noise—Liquid motion may produce pressure fluctuations caused by fluid dynamics. Examples of fluid
dynamic sources of noise and vibration include: turbulence, cavitation, flashing of the hydraulic fluid, and flow separation or
vorticity. Pressure and flow pulsations may lead to mechanical vibrations which may radiate acoustic noise. These fluid dynamic
sources characteristically lead to unstable flow patterns producing vortices at the boundaries between the high-velocity and
low-velocity regions. These vortices are converted to pressure perturbations as they impinge on sidewalls which, in turn, result in
vibration of the piping or pump housing.
10.1.4 Pressure Monitoring— Increased magnitude of the pressure spikes may indicate wear of the valve plate or erosion.
Uneven pressure output could reflect wear within the compensator.
10.1.5 Volumetric Output—A decrease of the flow would indicate internal wear or change in fluid viscosity. Monitoring case
drainage would be a confirmation of this effect. An increase in case drainage flow and temperature would be indicative of internal
wear.
10.1.6 Pump Operating Parameters—It is recommended that a data log be kept of the hydraulic pump test. Table 4 provides
an illustration of such a log. In addition to the data shown in Table 4, information relating to pump derating shall be recorded. Also,
note the field history of the hydraulic fluid, which shall include a brief description of years of experience and any known strengths
and deficiencies.
11. Pump Test Monitoring and Evaluation Criteria
11.1 Fluid Test Parameters—Key fluid characterization properties should be measured at the start and end of a test, and some
should be monitored at intervals during the test. An example protocol is given in Table 5.
11.1.1 As a minimum, the fluid test parameters should include: viscosity (Test Method D 445), neutralization number (Test
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D 6813 – 02a
TABLE 4 Hydraulic Pump Operating Parameters
Required Data, Constant Test Condition Variable Test Condition
Variable Test Condition,
Operation Conditions Measure Before (Flow and Pressure), (Flow and Pressure Profile
h
Start of Test h and Cycles), hA
Speed, rpm
Inlet Pressure, bar
System Pressure, bar
Reservoir Fluid Temperature, °C
Leakage Fluid Temperature, °C
Leakage Flow, L/min (Case Drain)
Leakage Pressure, bar
Shaft Power, kW
Hydraulic Power, kW
Total Efficiency, %
Particle contamination, cleanliness classB
Condition Monitoring (Body Noise)
A
Profile for flow: 1.5 s from min to max and from max to min, 1.5 s constant min and max flow, 1.5 s from max to min flow, (6 s/cycle, 600 cycles/h), pressure followed
in the same way.
B
Cleanliness class 19/16/13 (ISO 4406) is recommended as a minimum.
TABLE 5 Measuring Fluid Properties During a Pump Test

Test Start of End of
Property Monitor
Method Test Test
Viscosity at 40°C D 455 X X X
Viscosity at 100°C X X
Total Acid Number D 664 X X X
Water Content D 1744, D 6304 or D 95 X X X
Appearance Visual X X X
Color D 1500 X X
Infrared Spectrum X X X
Particle Count ISO 4406 X X X
Metals D 5185 X X X
Demulsibility D 1401 X X
Foaming D 892 X X
Air Release D 3427 X X
Oxidation D 2272 X X
Filterability NF E48– 690 X X X
NF E48–691 X X
NF E48–692 X X X
Method D 664), water content (Test Method D 1144 or E 203), and reserve alkalinity (Test Method D 1121), if the fluid is a
water-containing fluid such as HFB or HFC. Particle count analysis (ISO 11171) should be performed on the used fluid and, if
necessary, ferrographic analysis or elemental analysis, or both, to determine the source of any particles (wear or corrosion).
Elemental analysis may also be done to monitor additive element depletion or wear metal accumulation. Analysis of metals is
typically performed by Test Methods D 5185 or D 6595. A procedure similar to Test Method D 6376 may be used for analyzing
wear particles on a patch with subsequent elemental analysis using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy.
NOTE 23—The performance of water-containing fluids such as HFB and HFC fluids is dependent on the actual water content. Therefore, it is important
to determine the water content not only on the fresh fluid but also on the fluid at the conclusion of the test and at intermediate times, if needed. It is
suggested that water content should be maintained at 61 % of the initial value.
11.1.2 There are three manufacturers of analytical ferrography equipment plus numerous in-house methods using filtergram
techniques (sometimes called patch ferrography). The debris field is analyzed microscopically using an assortment of particle
treatment methods (heat, chemicals, impaction, bichromatic light, magnetism, and the like). Some laboratories use image analyzers
and particle recognition software. While there are no current ASTM or ISO methods for the optical analysis of wear particles, a
standard condition monitoring test procedure, which includes wear particle identification methods, is being developed by ISO
TC108/SC5/WG4.
11.1.3 An example of a performance criterion is that a fluid fails if there is a change in viscosity of >20 % or if an increase in
neutralization number of $2 mg KOH/g has occurred. Other parameters such as filterability, color, appearance, foaming tendency,
air release time, and loss of oxidation inhibitor may be monitored.
11.2 Pump Performance Appraisal—Variation of the pump operating parameters such as input speed, system pressure, system
temperature, case temperature, case pressure, and flow, throughout the test is an excellent indicator of wear. A sudden increase in
temperature and a sudden drop in flow are good indicators that there are lubricating problems with one or more bearing surfaces.
In some pumps, a significant loss of flow (>10 %) over a longer period (perhaps 225 h) may indicate yellow metal corrosion. An
A permanent increase in pressure drop across the downstream filter may indicate plugging due to particles from wear or fluid
deterioration.
11.2.1 It is recommended that the condition of internal wear contacts shall be determined and recorded. Table 6 provides a
21
D 6813 – 02a
TABLE 6 Pump Component Wear Rating
Photograph and Description of the Type
Part Ratings
and Degree of Wear Observed
Piston Shoe Face Land darkening, discoloration, material deformation,
scratches, scoring, plastic flow
Swash (Creep) Plate Scratches, polishing, discoloration, metal transfer,
heat checks
Port (Face) Plate Darkening, abrasive wear, cavitation, cracking,
heat checks
partial list for illustrative purposes. Each component should be photographed to provide a record of these observations. In the case
of bearings and other parts, it may be desirable to determine weight loss during the test. If the pump manufacturer can provide a
wear catalog, comparing the appearance of parts to examples in the catalog can aid in determining wear.
11.2.2 At the end of the test, the pump should be disassembled and examined both qualitatively and quantitatively for wear and
parts distress. Examples are polishing or scuffing of, or metal transfer to, the swash plate; piston shoe land wear; port plate and
face plate corrosion or cavitation wear; darkening or deposits in cylinder bores; radial lip seal wear; and bearing distress.
11.2.3 An example of wear determination would be visual inspection with photography of the degree of smearing that may
occur on the valve plate and cylinder block at the conclusion of the test. A “pass/fail” determination would be made by comparing
the degree of smearing with a wear catalog provided by the pump manufacturer for the wear surface being examined. The wear
catalog would indicate no wear, acceptable and unacceptable levels of wear upon which the final determination is made. Any
abnormal wear, scuffing, or adhesive failure is a cause for concern. Other wear surfaces to examine include: shaft bearings, piston
block/bore interface, piston/slipper interface, slipper/swash-plate interface, cylinder block/valve plate interface, shaft seal, and
other sealing areas.
11.3 Surface Analysis—Using visual inspection as the sole means of evaluating surface condition is often insufficient. After
testing, surface wear should be analyzed using accurate surface measurement. This may be done using a stylus or laser equipped
instrument. Reasonable limits of maximum wear depth in relation to the measured mean particle concentration should be
established as a pass/fail guideline.
12. Reference Oil

12.1 The reference oil selected is dependent on the problem to be solved. For example, one may select a hydraulic fluid
composition to improve upon its performance level. Alternatively, one may select an oil with minimum acceptable performance.
13. Illustrative Pump Manufacturers Piston Pump Tests

13.1 There are numerous piston pump test procedures to assess the lubricating properties of a hydraulic fluid. Most of these tests
have been developed and used by various pump manufacturers. However, at the present time there is no national standard piston
pump test. This section provides an overview of a number of piston pump tests that have been developed by equipment
manufacturers to evaluate certain features of their pumps. These tests apply many of the ideas discussed in Sections 7, 8, 10, and
11. These tests are generally performed as fluid qualification tests for pumps manufactured by the specific pump producer.
13.2 Komatsu HPV35+35 Piston Pump Test— Recently, Komatsu developed a piston pump test to evaluate biodegradable
vegetable oil-based hydraulic fluids (12). This test is based on a Komatsu HPV35+35 dual-piston pump using cycled pressure test
conditions summarized in Table 7 and shown schematically in Fig. 6. The test evaluation criteria are pump efficiency change, wear
and surface roughness, formation of lacquer and varnish, and hydraulic oil deterioration.
13.3 Rexroth Piston Pump Test—Rexroth has proposed a three-stage piston pump test based on the Brueninghaus A4VSO 125
piston pump (13). Stage one is conducted at maximum operating pressure, displacement, and temperature and at the minimum
viscosity specified for the fluid being tested. The test duration is 250 h at which time the pump is dismantled and inspected. The
second stage of the test is a pulsed pressure test at the maximum displacement of the pump. This stage is operated for one million
cycles. When this stage is complete, the pump is dismantled and inspected. The third stage is a variable displacement stage at
maximum pressure, maximum temperature, and minimum fluid viscosity. The test duration is one million cycles (at approximately
2 Hz) at which time the pump is dismantled and inspected again. These test conditions are summarized in Table 8. The final
pass/fail assessment is made with reference to a standard damage catalog provided by Rexroth.
TABLE 7 Summary of Komatsu HP35V35 and 35 Piston Pump

Test Conditions
Pressure 10 to 420 kg/cm2(140 to 6000 psi)
Oil Flow 16 gal (at 140 psi); 5 gal at (6000 psi)
Speed 2100 rpm
Temperature 80°C
Tank Volume 16 gal
Duration 500 h
22
D 6813 – 02a
FIG. 6 Schematic Illustration of the Test Sequence Used for the Komatsu HP35V35 + 35 Piston Pump Test
TABLE 8 Summary of the Rexroth Brueninghaus A4VSO 125

Piston Pump Test Conditions
Stage 1—Continuous Load Operation
Running Conditions Maximum operating pressure, maximum fluid
temperature, minimum fluid viscosity
specified for fluid class
Total Time/Stage 1 250 h; pump is dismantled and inspected
Stage 2—Pulsed Pressure Operation at Maximum Displacement

Running Conditions Load pressure—0-maximum, maximum fluid
Total Time/Stage 2 1 million cycles, 2 to 3 Hz, 100 to 150 h;
pump is dismantled and inspected
Stage 3—Variable Displacement at Maximum Pressure

Running Conditions Maximum pressure, maximum fluid
Total Time/Stage 3 1 million cycles, 1 s/cycle, total time is 280 h
at which point the pump is dismantled
and inspected
13.4 Sundstrand Water Stability Test Procedure—This test was originally conducted using a Sundstrand Series 22 piston pump
at a constant pressure (14). Currently this test procedure is conducted using a Sundstrand Series 90 piston pump with a 55 cm3
displacement (15) . The objective of the test is to determine the effect of water contamination (1 %) on mineral oil hydraulic
performance and yellow metal corrosion. However, other fluids, including water-containing fluids such as HFB and HFC fluids and
biodegradable fluids, may also be evaluated using this test. The test conditions are summarized in Table 9. The test duration is 225
TABLE 9 Summary of the Sundstrand Piston Pump Water

Stability Test Procedure
Input Speed 3000 to 3200 rpm
Load Pressure 5000 psi (344 bar)
Charge Pressure 180 to 220 psi (12.4 to 15.2 bar)
Case Pressure 40 psi (2.8 bar) max
Stroke of full
Stroke Full
Reservoir Temperature 150 6 10°F ( 65 6 4°C)
Loop Temperature 180 6 10°F ( 82 6 4°C)
Maximum Inlet Vacuum 5 in. Hg
23
D 6813 – 02a
h at which time it is disassembled and inspected for wear, corrosion and cavitation. If the flow degradation is equal to or greater
than 10 %, the test is considered to fail.
13.5 Eaton PVH57C Piston Pump Test Procedure (16)—This test procedure is used to evaluate hydraulic fluids for use in axial
piston pumps. The pump used for this test is the Eaton PVH57 piston pump equipped with a pressure compensator with load
sensing control. It consists of an actual test duration time of 250 h, not including break-in or performance running. The operation
temperature is dependant on the capability of the test fluid at the specified temperature, whichever is lower. For anti-wear
petroleum oils, the required running conditions are speed—2400 rpm, pressure—250 bar (3625 psi), temperature—93°C, and rated
inlet pressure—atmospheric pressure. Hydraulic pumps are typically derated for use with non-petroleum oil-based fluids. The
Eaton PVH57 hydraulic piston pump is also derated for use with non-petroleum oil-based hydraulic fluids and the recommended
test conditions for non-petroleum-based fluids are summarized in Table 10. The rated inlet pressure for non-petroleum-based
hydraulic fluids is also equal to atmospheric pressure.
NOTE 24—The recommended derated test conditions shown in Table 10 for the Eaton PVH57 hydraulic piston pump do not necessarily apply to other
Eaton hydraulic pumps nor do they necessarily apply to hydraulic pumps available from other manufacturers. The data in Table 10 is offered as an
illustration of hydraulic pump derating that may be encountered for non-petroleum-based hydraulic fluids.
13.5.1 The Eaton PVH57C piston pump test is conducted using the recommended speed, pressure, and temperature provided
in Table 10 while monitoring input torque, output pressure, output flow, case flow, case temperature, case pressure, inlet
temperature, and SAE Derived Capacity (according to SAE J745) throughout the following procedure:
13.5.1.1 Run a “performance” test as summarized in Table 11.
13.5.1.2 Run for 50 h at the rated pressure, speed, and temperature. Spot check performance at 2400 rpm, 120°F (49°C) flooded
inlet, and rated pressure—20 bar.
13.5.1.3 Disassemble pump and visually inspect to determine pass/fail (see 13.5.2 for pass/fail criteria). Reassemble the pump.
13.5.1.4 Spot check performance at 2400 rpm, 120°F (49°C), flooded inlet, and rated pressure—20 bar. Then run the following
cycling test for 200 h:
(1) 0.75 s full flow at 90 % rated pressure;
(2) 0.5 s at rated pressure; and
(3) 0.5 s at low pressure standby.
13.5.1.5 Disassemble pump after approximately 48 h of cyclic endurance. If hardware is visually acceptable, then reassemble
pump, spot check performance and continue the cyclic test as described in 13.5.1.4.
13.5.1.6 Run the performance test as summarized in Table 11.
13.5.1.7 Disassemble and inspect. The pass/fail criteria are provided in 13.5.2.
13.5.2 Summary of Pass/Fail Criteria for the Eaton PVH57C Piston Pump after Testing—The Eaton PVH57C piston pump will
be disassembled at the indicated times during the test and inspected for:
13.5.2.1 Valve plate running face—finish and visual inspection.
13.5.2.2 Cylinder block running face—finish and visual inspection.
13.5.2.3 Yoke running face—finish and visual inspection.
13.5.2.4 Yoke bearing journals—finish and visual inspection.
13.5.2.5 Saddle bearings—finish and visual inspection.
13.5.2.6 Identify pistons for reassembly into same bore and measure piston/shoe endplay and piston diameter at top, middle and
bottom.
13.5.2.7 All piston bores measured at top, middle and bottom.
13.5.2.8 Measure metering land diameters and width on both control spools
13.5.2.9 Photograph visually worn parts.
13.5.3 After these measurements are taken, the pass/fail criteria are:
13.5.3.1 Visual fail if there is material transfer or a coarser surface finish, or both, is observed resulting from abnormal wear.
13.5.3.2 Shoe endplay acceptance criterion is a change of less than 0.05 mm.
TABLE 10 Eaton PVH57 Specification Fluid Testing Conditions

Rated
Rated Speed, Rated Pressure,
Fluid Temperature,
rpm max, bar/psig
°C/°F
Water Glycol (HFC) 1800 170/2465 50/122
Invert Emulsion (HFB) 1500 155/2247 50/122
90-10 HWBF Thickened (HFAS) 1500 155/2247 50/122
Phosphate Ester (HFDR) 1800 230/3335 65/149
Polyol Ester (HFDU) 1800 230/3335 65/149
Environmentally Friendly– 1800 250/3625 65/149
Vegetable Base–(HETG)
Environmentally Friendly– 2400 250/3625 65/203
Synthetic Base–(HEES)
Anti-wear Petroleum Oil 2400 250/3625 93/199
24
D 6813 – 02a
TABLE 11 Summary of the Eaton PVH57C Piston Pump
“Performance” Test Procedure
Conditions See Table 10
Pressure (bar) 70, 140, (210A), Rated Pressure—20, Rated Pressure
Speed (rpm) 1200, (1800A), Rated Speed
Temperature Rated temperature or fluid manufacturers temperature
(whichever is lower)
A
These are the conditions that are permissible for use with a petroleum oil.
13.5.3.3 Overall maximum efficiency loss of 3 %.

13.5.3.4 Maximum variation in full flow of 2 %.
14. Keywords
14.1 hydraulic fluid; hydraulic pump testing; piston pump
REFERENCES
(1) Lemberger, S., and Totten, G. E., “Chapter 12—Failure Analysis,” Handbook of Hydraulic Fluid Technology , Ed. G. E. Totten, Marcel Dekker Inc.,
New York, NY, 2000, pp. 601-673.
(2) Fire Resistance of Industrial Fluids, STP 1284, Eds. G. E. Totten and J. Reichel, ASTM International, W. Conshohocken, PA, 1996.
(3) CFR—Part 35, “Fire Resistant Fluids,” U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration.
(4) “Approval Standard: Less Hazardous Hydraulic Fluid—Class Number 6930,” Factory Mutual Research Corporation, Norwood, MA, Feb. 7, 1975.
(5) Johnson, H. T., and Lewis, T. I., “Vickers 35VQ25 Pump Test,” Tribology of Hydraulic Pump Testing, ASTM STP 1310, Eds. G. E. Totten, G. H. Kling,
and D. J. Smolenski, ASTM International, W. Conshohocken, PA, 1996, pp. 129-139.
(6) “Pump Testing Performance for Evaluation of Antiwear Fluids for Mobile Applications,” Vickers Form No. M-2952-S, Eaton Corporation, Eaton
Hydraulics, Eden Prairie, MN.
(7) Bishop, R. J., and Totten, G. E., “Managing Foam and Aeration in Hydraulic Fluids,” Proceedings of the International Conference and Exhibition,
Practicing Oil Analysis 2000, Tulsa, OK, October 24-26, 2000, pp. 58-70.
(8) Fluid Power Designer’s Lightningt Reference Handbook, 8th Edition, Paul-Munroe Rucker, Inc., Whittier, CA, 1994, p. 118.
(9) Fluid Power Designer’s Lightningt Reference Handbook, 8th Edition, Paul-Munroe Rucker, Inc., Whittier, CA, 1994, p. 17.
(10) “Lesson 13—Hydraulic Fluid Conditioning,” Fluid Power Basics—An Introduction to Hydraulics and Pneumatics , Bulletin 0239-B1, Parker
Hannafin Corporation, Motion & Control Group, Training Dept., Cleveland, OH, 1993, p. 13-1.
(11) Tessmann, R. K., Melief, H. M., and Bishop, R. J., “Chapter 1—Basic Hydraulic Pump and Circuit Design,” Handbook of Hydraulic Fluid
Technology, Ed. G. E. Totten, Marcel Dekker Inc., New York, NY, 2000, pp. 1-64.
(12) Ohkawa, S., Konishi, A., Hatano, H., Ishihama, K., Tanaka, K., and Iwamura, M., “Oxidation and Corrosion Characteristics of Vegetable-Base
Biodegradable Hydraulic Oil,” SAE Technical Paper Series, Paper Number 951038, 1995.
(13) Melief, H. M., Totten, G. E., and Bishop, R. J., “Overview of the Proposed Rexroth High-Pressure Piston Pump Testing Procedure for Hydraulic
Fluid Qualification,” SAE Technical Paper Series, Paper Number 982022, 1998.
(14) “Sundstrand Water Stability Test Procedure,” Sundstrand Bulletin No. 9658, Sauer-Danfoss Corp., Ames, IA.
(15) “The Effect of Water-Contaminated Hydraulic Fluid on the Sauer-Sundstrand 90 Series Axial Piston Pump,” Specification Number JDQ 84, John
Deere Corporation, Waterloo, IA.
(16) Eaton Engineering Standard ATS-362, “Eaton PVH57C—Test Procedure for Evaluation of Fluids for Open Loop Axial Piston Pumps,” Eaton
Corporation, Hydraulics Division, Eden Prairie, MN.
(17) McHugh, P., Stofey, W. D., and Totten, G. E., “Chapter 14—Mineral Oil Hydraulic Fluids,” Handbook of Hydraulic Fluid Technology, Ed. G. E.
Totten, Marcel Dekker Inc., New York, NY, 2000, pp. 711-794.
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.
This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.
This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
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address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or [email protected] (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org).
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This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what

changes have been made to the previous version. Because

An American National Standard

Standard Guide for

FIG. 1 Illustration of an Axial Piston Pump

FIG. 2 Illustration of a Bent Axis Piston Pump

Delivery ~L/min! 3 Pressure ~kPag!

Delivery ~gal/min! 3 Pressure ~psig!

Torque ~lbf·in.! 3 Speed ~rpm!

Theoretical Torque Input

4. Significance and Use

FIG. 3 Schematic Illustration of a Radial Piston Pump

6. Fluid Properties and Performance Testing Procedures

6.2 Typical Physical Properties :

Hydraulic Fluid Classification

Kinematic viscosity at 40°C X X X X X X X X X X X X ASTM D 445

TABLE 3 Steady-State Operating Conditions for the Eaton

FIG. 4 Illustration of a Reservoir Baffling Design that Has Been Recommended

FIG. 5 Illustration of NPSH Parameters

TABLE 5 Measuring Fluid Properties During a Pump Test

12. Reference Oil

13. Illustrative Pump Manufacturers Piston Pump Tests

TABLE 7 Summary of Komatsu HP35V35 and 35 Piston Pump

TABLE 8 Summary of the Rexroth Brueninghaus A4VSO 125

Stage 2—Pulsed Pressure Operation at Maximum Displacement

Stage 3—Variable Displacement at Maximum Pressure

TABLE 9 Summary of the Sundstrand Piston Pump Water

TABLE 10 Eaton PVH57 Specification Fluid Testing Conditions

13.5.3.3 Overall maximum efficiency loss of 3 %.

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