SwRI: Foaming Tendency Evaluation, ASTM D892, International Lubricant Testing, ACEA Lubricant Test

Foaming tendency laboratory evaluation method ASTM D892 is offered by Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) to determine the foaming characteristics of lubricating oils at specified temperatures in the laboratory. The means of empirically rating the tendency to foam and the stability of the foam are described in the foaming tendency test method.

ACEA 2008 Specifications

The foaming tendency evaluation is part of ACEA Specifications:

	The sample is blown with air at a constant rate for five minutes, then allowed to settle for 10 minutes.
	Photo of ASTM D892 sample

ASTM D 892 Evaluation Parameters

A sample, maintained by a temperature of 24°C, is blown with air at a constant rate for 5 minutes and then allowed to settle for 10 minutes. The volume of foam is measured at the end of both periods. The test is repeated on a second sample at 93.5°C and then, after collapsing the foam, at 24°C.

Pass/Fail Criteria

At the end of the ASTM D892 test, the following information is reported:

• Optional blending (if implemented)

• Volume of kinetic foam before air disconnect

• Foam stability

• Collapse time

• Foaming tendency (static foam)

• Total volume before air disconnect

• Volume of static foam for selected option after disconnect

*Association des Constructeurs Européens d'Automobiles/European Automobile Manufacturers Association.

For more information about foaming tendency evaluation (ASTM D892) capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Becky Grinfield at bgrinfield@swri.org or (210) 522-3652.