ASTM D2511-20
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Thermal Shock Sensitivity of Solid Film Lubricants
Standard Test Method for Thermal Shock Sensitivity of Solid Film Lubricants
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Solid lubricant coatings are applied to surfaces that are exposed to heat and cold to such a degree that in many cases liquid lubricants are not practical. Adherence under these conditions is mandatory to preserve the bearing surfaces during sliding motion.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the resistance of dry solid film lubricants to deterioration when subjected to temperature extremes.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.
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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Nov-2020
- Technical Committee
- D02 - Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
- Drafting Committee
- D02.L0.05 - Solid Lubricants
Relations
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2006
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2004
- Effective Date
- 10-Sep-1999
- Effective Date
- 10-Nov-1998
Overview
ASTM D2511-20: Standard Test Method for Thermal Shock Sensitivity of Solid Film Lubricants is a well-established ASTM standard that addresses the measurement of the resistance of dry solid film lubricants to deterioration under temperature extremes. These lubricants are frequently used in environments where conventional liquid lubricants are impractical due to exposure to both extreme heat and cold. Ensuring the adherence and durability of such coatings is essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of critical bearing surfaces during sliding motion.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants, providing a consistent approach for evaluating the thermal shock sensitivity of solid film lubricants on metallic surfaces.
Key Topics
- Purpose: Measures the resistance of dry solid film lubricants when exposed to high (260°C) and low (−54°C) temperatures.
- Test Procedure:
- Application of lubricant to corrosion-resistant steel test panels.
- Controlled curing and measurement of film thickness.
- Exposure to specified temperature extremes and subsequent evaluation.
- Visual inspection for signs of deterioration such as blistering, cracking, flaking, or softening.
- Pass/Fail Rating: The results determine whether the coating passes or fails the thermal shock test, rather than providing quantitative data.
- Test Materials: Utilizes corrosion-resistant steel panels and standardized dry cleaning solvents for preparation.
- Safety: Users are responsible for establishing appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices when using this method.
Applications
The ASTM D2511-20 test method is crucial for industries and sectors where components face cyclic thermal stresses, particularly where sliding surfaces must remain lubricated and protected. Common areas of application include:
- Aerospace: Ensures durability and performance of lubricated components subjected to wide temperature variations during flight operations.
- Automotive: Used on parts such as brake mechanisms, transmissions, and other components exposed to both hot and cold environments.
- Military & Defense: Vital for vehicles, weapons systems, and equipment operating across extreme climates where reliability is mission-critical.
- Industrial Machinery: Applied in manufacturing equipment, turbines, and process machinery that experience thermal cycling.
- Electronics & Energy: Useful for assemblies that must retain lubrication despite temperature fluctuations, such as in power generation and certain electronic components.
By following ASTM D2511-20, manufacturers and engineers can validate the stability and reliability of solid film lubricants in demanding conditions, ensuring long-term protection against wear and friction.
Related Standards
- ASTM D2510 - Test Method for Adhesion of Solid Film Lubricants: Offers complementary procedures for evaluating adhesion properties.
- ASTM D4175 - Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants: Provides definitions and standardized terminology relevant to testing and material descriptions.
- ASTM A167 (Withdrawn) - Specification for Stainless and Heat-Resisting Chromium-Nickel Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip: The steel referenced for test panels in this method.
- U.S. Federal Specification P-D-680: Defines requirements for dry cleaning solvents used in test panel preparation.
Practical Value
Adhering to ASTM D2511-20 provides confidence that solid film lubricants will remain effective in protecting critical surfaces under harsh, rapidly changing thermal conditions. The standard delivers a reliable, internationally recognized framework for quality assurance, supporting product performance, safety, and regulatory compliance in applications where thermal shock resistance is paramount.
Keywords: ASTM D2511-20, thermal shock sensitivity, solid film lubricant, extreme temperature, lubricant testing, bearing protection, aerospace lubricant, automotive lubrication, industrial lubricant standard
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D2511-20 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Thermal Shock Sensitivity of Solid Film Lubricants". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Solid lubricant coatings are applied to surfaces that are exposed to heat and cold to such a degree that in many cases liquid lubricants are not practical. Adherence under these conditions is mandatory to preserve the bearing surfaces during sliding motion. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the resistance of dry solid film lubricants to deterioration when subjected to temperature extremes. 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only. 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Solid lubricant coatings are applied to surfaces that are exposed to heat and cold to such a degree that in many cases liquid lubricants are not practical. Adherence under these conditions is mandatory to preserve the bearing surfaces during sliding motion. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the resistance of dry solid film lubricants to deterioration when subjected to temperature extremes. 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only. 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM D2511-20 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 75.100 - Lubricants, industrial oils and related products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D2511-20 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D2510-94(2012), ASTM A167-99(2009), ASTM D2510-94(2006), ASTM A167-99(2004), ASTM A167-99, ASTM D2510-94(1998). Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D2511-20 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D2511 − 20
Standard Test Method for
Thermal Shock Sensitivity of Solid Film Lubricants
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2511; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 3.1.1 lubricant, n—any material interposed between two
surfaces that reduces the friction or wear, or both, between
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the resis-
them.
tance of dry solid film lubricants to deterioration when sub-
jected to temperature extremes. 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 dry solid film lubricant, n—on a steel surface, one
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
consisting of friction-reducing powders bonded in tight matrix
standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for
to the surface of the metal.
information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the 4. Summary of Test Method
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
4.1 A steel panel having the solid film lubricant deposited
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ononesurfaceissubjectedto260°C(500°F)heatfollowedby
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
immediate exposure to−54°C (−65°F). The solid film is then
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
examined for cracking, flaking, blistering, or other evidence of
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
thermal instability.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
5. Significance and Use
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
5.1 Solid lubricant coatings are applied to surfaces that are
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
exposed to heat and cold to such a degree that in many cases
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
liquid lubricants are not practical. Adherence under these
conditionsismandatorytopreservethebearingsurfacesduring
2. Referenced Documents
sliding motion.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
6. Apparatus
A167 Specification for Stainless and Heat-Resisting
Chromium-Nickel Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip (With-
6.1 Oven, capable of maintaining a temperature at
drawn 2014)
260°C 65.5°C (500°F 6 10°F) and 149°C 6 5.5°C
D2510Test Method for Adhesion of Solid Film Lubricants
(300°F 6 10°F) (forced circulation).
2.2 U.S. Federal Specification:
4 6.2 Sub-Zero Cabinet, capable of maintaining a constant
P-D-680Dry Cleaning Solvent
temperature of −54°C 6 0.5°C (−65°F 6 1°F).
3. Terminology
6.3 Micrometer, reading 0mm to 25mm 6 0.0025mm,
3.1 Definitions: (0in. to 1in. 6 0.0001in.) with a 1-ball anvil.
7. Reagents and Materials
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of
7.1 Test Panels, of corrosion-resistant steel, 76mm by
Subcommittee D02.L0.05 on Solid Lubricants.
152mm by 0.914mm (3in. by 6in. by 0.036in.), conforming
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2020. Published December 2020. Originally
toSpecificationA167,No.2Dfinish,conditionannealed.Type
approved in 1966. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as D2511–93(2019).
DOI: 10.1520/D2511-20. 321 has proved satisfactory and is generally available.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
7.2 Dry Cleaning Solvent, conforming to U. S. Federal
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Specification P-D-680.
the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on 8. Sampling, Test Spec
...
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.
Designation: D2511 − 93 (Reapproved 2019) D2511 − 20
Standard Test Method for
Thermal Shock Sensitivity of Solid Film Lubricants
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2511; 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 (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope Scope*
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the resistance of dry solid film lubricants to deterioration when subjected to
temperature extremes.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information
only.
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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A167 Specification for Stainless and Heat-Resisting Chromium-Nickel Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip (Withdrawn 2014)
D2510 Test Method for Adhesion of Solid Film Lubricants
D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
2.2 U.S. Federal Specification:
P-D-680 Dry Cleaning Solvent
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 lubricant, n—any material interposed between two surfaces that reduces the friction or wear between them (see Terminology
wear, or both, between them.D4175).
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
D02.L0.05 on Solid Lubricants.
Current edition approved May 1, 2019Dec. 1, 2020. Published June 2019December 2020. Originally approved in 1966. Last previous edition approved in 20142019 as
D2511 – 93 (2014).(2019). DOI: 10.1520/D2511-93R19.10.1520/D2511-20.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, DODSSP, Bldg. 4, Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D2511 − 20
3.2.1 dry solid film lubricant, n—on a steel surface, one consisting of friction-reducing powders bonded in tight matrix to the
surface of the metal.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 A steel panel having the solid film lubricant deposited on one surface is subjected to 260 °C (500 °F) heat followed by
immediate exposure to −54 °C (−65 °F). The solid film is then examined for cracking, flaking, blistering, or other evidence of
thermal instability.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Solid lubricant coatings are applied to surfaces that are exposed to heat and cold to such a degree that in many cases liquid
lubricants are not practical. Adherence under these conditions is mandatory to preserve the bearing surfaces during sliding motion.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Oven, capable of maintaining a temperature at 260 °C 6 5.5 °C (500 °F 6 10 °F) and 149 °C 6 5.5 °C (300 °F 6 10 °F)
(forced circulation).
6.2 Sub-Zero Cabinet, capable of maintaining a constant
...








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