BS EN 14865-2 specifies a test method and sets the acceptance criteria for the determination of the mechanical stability of lubricating greases intended for the lubrication of axlebox bearings according to EN 12081.
In the test, impacts are applied to the lubricating grease so that only very stable lubricating greases will perform acceptably. The method is used in a discrimination process for finding lubricating greases of such mechanical stability that they are considered accepted lubricating greases for more extensive performance tests according to EN 12082.
For purposes of quality assurance and quality control, this test method is also used for batch testing of lubricating greases.
BS EN 14865-2 on the method to test the mechanical stability to cover vehicle speeds up to 200 km/h is useful for:
A test method is standardized, which is referred to in EN 12081.
BS EN 14865-2 standardizes a test method and acceptance criteria for the demand in EN 12081 for testing the mechanical stability of axlebox lubricating greases. It addresses the issue of the mechanical stability of lubricating greases operating under severe conditions.
All lubricants have three main functions – to form a lubricating film that separates rolling elements and raceways, to protect the bearings from corrosion and to give good longevity. For lubricating grease there is a further demand: the product needs to be mechanically stable in use.
Currently, several common lubricating grease shear stability tests are available to the industry, but the procedure in BS EN 14865-2 is the most severe. It has been available for many years and it is used to discriminate between lubricating greases of different stabilities.
EN 14865-2:2006+A2:2010