ASTM D5621-01

1.1 This test method 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.

1.2 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.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This test method uses millimetres squared per second (mm ²/s), an SI unit, as the unit of viscosity. For information, the equivalent unit, cSt, is shown in parentheses.

This test method was developed using Test Method D 2603 – 91.

This test method permits the evaluation of shear stability with minimum interference from thermal and oxidative factors that may be present in some applications. It has been found applicable to fluids containing both readily sheared and shear-resistant polymers. Correlation with performance in the case of hydraulic applications has been established.