Technical Services - Southwest Research Institute

Fuels and Lubricants Research Division 

2014 

22

The Fuels and Lubricants Research Division of Southwest Research 

Institute ® includes extensive engines, fuels and lubricants research, 

development and evaluation activities. 

Fuels and 

Lubricants 

Research 

Division 

Technical 

Services 

The result is unequaled capabilities for automotive product research, 

development, testing and evaluation. A client-driven and technologyoriented 

staff of more than 400 provides a broad range of services 

for research, development, qualification, demonstration, certification, 

or evaluation of automotive components and petroleum products 

used in cars, trucks, buses, locomotives, tractors, motorcycles and 

outboard engines, or any other internal combustion engine 

application. 

Our services include bench, laboratory or field demonstrations and 

include worldwide specifications. We provide all relevant and 

applicable ASTM, OEM and other recognized procedures. An even 

greater variety and range of services is provided for specific 

applications and special needs. This publication contains a partial list 

of the services available, organized by department. We welcome 

your inquiries and will provide price quotes on request at no 

obligation. Key personnel are listed at the beginning of each section. 

Steven D. Marty, P.E., Vice President 


Southwest Research Institute 

6220 Culebra Road 

P.O. Drawer 28510 

San Antonio, Texas USA 78228-0510 

(210) 522-5929 

smarty@swri.org 

www.flrd.swri.org 

www.swri.org 

The Fuels and Lubricants Research Division is: 

• Certified to ISO 9001:2008, “Quality Management Systems - 

Requirements” 

• Accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2005, “General Requirements for the 

Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories” 

• Certified to ISO 14001:2004, “Environmental Management 

Systems” 

The Division also has achieved Ford Tier 1 status for providing 

engineering services and has received the Ford Q1 Quality Award. 

In conjunction with these Divisional quality system accomplishments: 

• The Petroleum Products Research Department is a Nuclear 

Procurement Issues Committee (NUPIC)-Approved Laboratory. 

• The Fuels and Lubricants Research Department has maintained its 

status as an American Chemistry Council (ACC)-Approved 

Laboratory. 

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Table of Contents 

ENGINE LUBRICANTS RESEARCH DEPARTMENT ................................................... 1 

ENGINE LUBRICANTS RESEARCH DEPARTMENT ................................................... 2 

Gasoline Engine Lubricant Certification Testing ................................................................... 2 

Calibrated Sequence IIIF Lubricant Test .................................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Sequence IIIFHD Lubricant Test ............................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Sequence IIIG Lubricant Test .................................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Sequence IIIGA Lubricant Test ............................................................................................... 2 

Calibrated Sequence IIIGB Lubricant Test ............................................................................................... 2 

Calibrated Sequence IVA Lubricant Test .................................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Sequence VG Lubricant Test .................................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Sequence VIB Lubricant Test .................................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Sequence VID Lubricant Test .................................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Sequence VIII Lubricant Test .................................................................................................. 2 

Calibrated Ball Rust Test .......................................................................................................................... 2 

Diesel Engine Lubricant Certification Testing ....................................................................... 2 

Caterpillar 1K Lubricant Test..................................................................................................................... 2 

Caterpillar 1M-PC Lubricant Test .............................................................................................................. 3 

Caterpillar 1N Lubricant Test .................................................................................................................... 3 

Caterpillar 1P Lubricant Test..................................................................................................................... 3 

Caterpillar 1R Lubricant Test .................................................................................................................... 3 

Caterpillar C13 Lubricant Test .................................................................................................................. 3 

Mack T8/T8A/T8E Lubricant Test ............................................................................................................. 3 

Mack T10A Lubricant Test ........................................................................................................................ 3 

Mack T11 Lubricant Test ........................................................................................................................... 3 

Mack T12 Lubricant Test ........................................................................................................................... 3 

Roller Follower Wear Test (RFWT) ........................................................................................................... 3 

Engine Oil Aeration Test (EOAT) .............................................................................................................. 3 

Cummins ISB Lubricant Test .................................................................................................................... 3 

Cummins ISM Lubricant Test .................................................................................................................... 4 

Specialized Diesel Engine Testing .......................................................................................... 4 

Railroad and Marine .................................................................................................................................. 4 

Fuel Additives ............................................................................................................................................ 4 

Fuel Consumption ..................................................................................................................................... 4 

Alternative Fuels ....................................................................................................................................... 4 

Fuel System Wear ..................................................................................................................................... 4 

Durability ................................................................................................................................................... 4 

Injector Deposit/Coking ............................................................................................................................. 4 

Engine Hardware ...................................................................................................................................... 4 

Oil Consumption ........................................................................................................................................ 4 

New Engine vs. Available Lubricants ........................................................................................................ 4 

Valve Guttering ......................................................................................................................................... 4 

Destructive Evaluations ............................................................................................................................. 4 

Oil Consumption Apparatus ...................................................................................................................... 4 

Parts Analysis ........................................................................................................................................... 4 

Ratings ...................................................................................................................................................... 5 

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Turbocharger Durability/Lubrication .......................................................................................................... 5 

Tribology and Advanced Lubricant Evaluations ................................................................... 5 

Plint TE-77 Reciprocating Test Rig ........................................................................................................... 5 

High-Pressure, -Temperature and -Frequency Reciprocating Rig ........................................................... 5 

Falex Block-on-Ring Test Rig ................................................................................................................... 5 

PCS Instruments Mini Traction Machine (MTM2) ..................................................................................... 5 

JASO Diesel Engine Lubricant Testing .................................................................................. 5 

Mitsubishi 4D34T4 Valve Train Wear JASO M354:1999 .......................................................................... 5 

ASTM-TC Procedures for Two-Stroke, Air-Cooled Engines .................................................. 5 

D4857-12 TC Seq. I (Y350M2 Detergency) .............................................................................................. 5 

D4863-13 TC Seq. II (CE50S Lubricity) .................................................................................................... 5 

D4858-13 TC Seq. III (CE50S Pre-Ignition) .............................................................................................. 5 

NMMA TC-W3 ® Procedures for Two-Cycle Outboard Engines ............................................. 6 

CE50S Lubricity ........................................................................................................................................ 6 

NMMA TC-W3 AF-27 Lubricity.................................................................................................................. 6 

OMC 40 HP General Performance ........................................................................................................... 6 

OMC 70 HP Detergency ........................................................................................................................... 6 

Mercury 15 HP Detergency ....................................................................................................................... 6 

Pre-Ignition ................................................................................................................................................ 6 

NMMA FC-W ® and FC-W Catalyst Compatible ® Procedures for Four-Cycle Outboard 

Engines ..................................................................................................................................... 6 

NMMA FC-W 115 HP General Performance Engine Test ........................................................................ 6 

JASO FB, FC, FD, EGB, EGC & EGD Procedures for Two-Stroke Lubricant Engine Testing 

.................................................................................................................................................. 6 

M 342-92 Smoke ....................................................................................................................................... 6 

M 343-92 Exhaust System Blocking ......................................................................................................... 6 

M 341-92 Detergency ................................................................................................................................ 6 

M 340-92 Lubricity ..................................................................................................................................... 6 

M 341-02 Three-Hour Detergency ............................................................................................................ 6 

Field Test Engine – Complete New Powerhead Inspection ...................................................................... 6 

Field Test Engine – Block and Piston Inspection ...................................................................................... 6 

Component, Product and Additive Testing ............................................................................ 7 

Engine Rating and Measurements ............................................................................................................ 7 

Aircraft Product Testing ............................................................................................................................. 7 

Additive Testing ......................................................................................................................................... 7 

Sequence Test Development .................................................................................................................... 7 

Gaskets and Seals .................................................................................................................................... 7 

Two-Stroke Cycle Tests ............................................................................................................................ 7 

Test Equipment, Fabrication and Training Export Services ...................................................................... 7 

Natural Gas Lubricant Evaluations ........................................................................................................... 7 

FUELS AND DRIVELINE LUBRICANTS RESEARCH DEPARTMENT......................... 8 

FUELS AND DRIVELINE LUBRICANTS RESEARCH DEPARTMENT......................... 9 

Transmission Fluid Testing ..................................................................................................... 9 

General Motors Automatic Transmission Fluids Testing ...................................................... 9 

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DEXRON ® -VI Chemical and Bench Tests (DEXRON ® -VI Items A-M, and O-U) ...................................... 9 

DEXRON ® -VI Oxidation Test .................................................................................................................... 9 

DEXRON ® -VI Cycling Test ........................................................................................................................ 9 

DEXRON ® -VI Plate Clutch Friction Test ................................................................................................... 9 

DEXRON ® -VI Wear Test ........................................................................................................................... 9 

DEXRON ® -VI Aeration Test ...................................................................................................................... 9 

DEXRON ® -VI Low Speed Clutch Friction and Torque Capacity Test ....................................................... 9 

Ford Automatic Transmission Fluid Testing .......................................................................... 9 

MERCON ® V Chemical and Bench Tests (MERCON ® V items 3.1 thru 3.7, 3.9 and 3.10) ..................... 9 

MERCON ® V Wear Tests ........................................................................................................................ 10 

MERCON ® V Aluminum Beaker Oxidation Test (ABOT) ........................................................................ 10 

MERCON ® V Clutch Friction Durability Test ........................................................................................... 10 

MERCON ® V Anti-Shudder Durability ..................................................................................................... 10 

Ford Over-Running Clutch (AX4N OWC) Wear Test Procedure ............................................................ 10 

Allison Severe Duty, Extended Drain Interval Automatic Transmission Fluid Testing ......10 

Allison TES-295 Chemical and Bench Tests .......................................................................................... 10 

Allison TES-295 Oxidation Test .............................................................................................................. 10 

Allison TES-295 Wear Tests ................................................................................................................... 10 

Allison TES-295 Frictional Properties Tests ........................................................................................... 10 

Allison On-Highway Automatic Transmission Fluid Testing ...............................................10 

Allison TES-389 Chemical and Bench Tests .......................................................................................... 10 

Allison TES-389 Wear Test ..................................................................................................................... 10 

Allison TES-389 Oxidation Resistance Test ........................................................................................... 10 

Allison TES-389 Friction Tests ................................................................................................................ 11 

Allison Heavy-Duty Automatic Transmission Fluid Testing ................................................11 

Allison TES-439 Chemical and Bench Test ............................................................................................ 11 

Allison TES-439 Oxidation Test .............................................................................................................. 11 

Allison TES-439 Graphite High-Energy Friction Test ............................................................................. 11 

JASO SAE #2 Testing .............................................................................................................11 

JASO T903:2011 and M348:2002 Clutch Friction Test .......................................................................... 11 

Caterpillar Transmission and Drivetrain Fluid Testing ........................................................11 

TO-4 Physical Properties ........................................................................................................................ 11 

TO-4 Elastomer Compatibility ................................................................................................................. 11 

TO-4 Oxidation Stability .......................................................................................................................... 11 

TO-4 Gear Wear Test (ASTM D4998) .................................................................................................... 11 

TO-4 Pump Wear Test ............................................................................................................................ 11 

TO-4 Friction Properties .......................................................................................................................... 11 

Hydraulic Fluid Testing ..........................................................................................................12 

DIN 51389-2 Vane Pump Wear Test ...................................................................................................... 12 

Conestoga Pump Test (ASTM D7043) ................................................................................................... 12 

Eaton 35VQ25A Pump Test .................................................................................................................... 12 

Denison T6H20C Hybrid Pump - Phase I ............................................................................................... 12 

Manual Transmission and Rear Axle Gear Lubricant Performance Testing .......................12 

L-20 High-Torque Test ............................................................................................................................ 12 

L-33-1 Moisture Corrosion Test (ASTM D7038) ..................................................................................... 12 

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L-37 High-Torque Test (ASTM D6121) ................................................................................................... 12 

L-42 High-Speed Shock Axle Test (ASTM D7452) ................................................................................. 12 

L-60-1 Thermal and Oxidative Stability Test (ASTM D5704) .................................................................. 12 

FZG Gear Wear Test (ASTM D4998) ..................................................................................................... 13 

FZG Load Stage Test (ASTM D5182) .................................................................................................... 13 

Axle Efficiency Test ................................................................................................................................. 13 

FZG Pitting Test with Type C Gear ......................................................................................................... 13 

FZG Step Load (A10/16.6R/90:120) ....................................................................................................... 13 

Manual Transmission High-Temperature Cyclic Durability Test (ASTM D5579) .................................... 13 

SSP 180 Synchronizer ............................................................................................................................ 13 

Mack GO-J/J+ and Eaton PS-163 Test Procedures ............................................................................... 13 

Manual Transmission and Dry Clutch Transmission (dDCT) Fluid Testing ........................14 

General Motors Dry Dual Clutch Transmissions Fluids Testing .........................................14 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Chemical and Bench Tests ........................................................................................ 14 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Wear Test ................................................................................................................... 14 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Scuffing Protection Test ............................................................................................. 14 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Synchronizer Function Test ....................................................................................... 14 

Tractor Testing ........................................................................................................................14 

Tractor Field Tests .................................................................................................................................. 14 

Tractor Fluids Specification Testing......................................................................................14 

Tractor Hydraulic Fluid Testing ............................................................................................................... 14 

JDQ-84 Dynamic Corrosion Sauer-Danfoss Pump Test ........................................................................ 14 

JDQ-94 Powershift Transmission Clutch Friction Test ........................................................................... 14 

JDQ-102 Shear Stability .......................................................................................................................... 14 

JDQ-95 Spiral Bevel/Final Drive Wear Test ............................................................................................ 15 

JDQ-96B Torque Variation and Brake Friction Retention Test ............................................................... 15 

John Deere Hydraulic Pump Shear Stability ........................................................................................... 15 

JDQ-95A Spiral Bevel Gear Wear .......................................................................................................... 15 

John Deere High Energy Clutch ............................................................................................................. 15 

John Deere TZT Oxidation ...................................................................................................................... 15 

Automotive Fleet Testing .......................................................................................................15 

Axle and Axle Lubricant Evaluations, Heavy-Duty .................................................................................. 15 

Axle and Axle Lubricant Evaluations, Light-Duty .................................................................................... 15 

Truck Axle Lubricant Fuel Economy ....................................................................................................... 15 

Crankcase Engine Lubricant Fuel Economy ........................................................................................... 15 

Truck Fuel Economy Improvements ....................................................................................................... 16 

Durability and Reliability Evaluation of Engine/Vehicle Compatibility ..................................................... 16 

Road Simulators/Mileage Accumulation Dynamometers ........................................................................ 16 

Vehicle Test Tracks ................................................................................................................................. 16 

Off-Highway Evaluations ......................................................................................................................... 16 

John Deere Engine Coolant Cavitation Test ........................................................................................... 16 

Specialized Fuel Testing ........................................................................................................16 

Vehicle Evaluations for Fuel Injector Plugging........................................................................................ 16 

Intake System and Combustion Chamber Deposits ............................................................................... 16 

Intake Valve-Sticking Evaluations ........................................................................................................... 16 

Vehicle Driveability and Performance Testing ........................................................................................ 16 

v

Vehicle Octane Requirement and ORI Evaluations ................................................................................ 17 

Alternative Fuels Testing (Methanol, Ethanol, Natural Gas and others) ................................................ 17 

Octane Requirement Increase (ORI) ...................................................................................................... 17 

Gasoline Direct Injection GDI) Fuel Injector Deposits ............................................................................ 17 

Sequential Central Port Injection Fouling Test........................................................................................ 17 

PETROLEUM PRODUCTS RESEARCH DEPARTMENT ............................................ 18 

PETROLEUM PRODUCTS RESEARCH DEPARTMENT ............................................ 19 

Fuel, Lubricant and Fluid Inspection ....................................................................................................... 19 

Metals Analyses ...................................................................................................................................... 19 

Fuel Conformance/Fuel Surveys/Field Studies....................................................................................... 19 

Trace Organic Analysis ........................................................................................................................... 19 

Laboratory Engine Technology ............................................................................................................... 19 

SwRI-developed Instruments .................................................................................................................. 19 

Petroleum Products Research ................................................................................................................ 20 

Used Lubricant Field Studies .................................................................................................................. 20 

Procedural Development ......................................................................................................................... 20 

Trend Analysis ........................................................................................................................................ 20 

Lubricants and Fluid Evaluations ............................................................................................................ 20 

Engine Lubricants ................................................................................................................................... 20 

Gear Lubricants ....................................................................................................................................... 20 

Transmission Fluids ................................................................................................................................ 20 

Industrial Lubricants ................................................................................................................................ 20 

Engine Coolants ...................................................................................................................................... 20 

FUELS AND LUBRICANTS TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT ..................................... 21 

FUELS AND LUBRICANTS TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT ..................................... 22 

Automotive Filtration Performance Testing ............................................................................................. 22 

Fluids Filtration and Handling Research ................................................................................................. 22 

Fuels, Lubricants, and Fluids Applications .............................................................................................. 22 

Fuel Systems and Contamination Research ........................................................................................... 23 

Filtration and Fine Particle Technology ................................................................................................... 23 

vi

Engine Lubricants Research Department 

Ben Weber, Executive Director ................................................................... (210) 522-5911 

William A. Buscher III, Manager, Gasoline Lubricant Evaluations ...............................(210) 522-6802 

Jim McCord, Manager, Diesel Engine Lubricants ........................................................(210) 522-3439 

Dr. Peter Lee, Principal Engineer, Tribology ................................................................(210) 522-5545 

Dr. Sylvain Kouame, Research Engineer, Advanced Lubricant Evaluations ...............(210) 522-5271 

1

Engine Lubricants 

Research Department 

Ben Weber, Executive Director 

(210) 522-5911 

William A. Buscher III, Manager 

Gasoline Lubricant Evaluations 

(210) 522-6802 

Jim McCord, Manager 

Diesel Engine Lubricants 

(210) 522-3439 

Dr. Peter Lee, Principal Engineer 

Tribology 

(210) 522-5545 

Dr. Sylvain Kouame, Research Engineer 

Advanced Lubricant Evaluations 

(210) 522-5271 

Gasoline Engine Lubricant 

Certification Testing 

Calibrated Sequence IIIF Lubricant Test 

This 80-hour engine dynamometer lubricant test 

evaluates a lubricant’s ability to prevent 

camshaft lobe wear, valve lifter wear, and hightemperature 

oxidation. In addition, varnish and 

piston deposits are evaluated. 

Calibrated Sequence IIIFHD Lubricant Test 

This 60-hour test measures high temperature 

oxidation performance of a lubricant. Test 

conditions are identical to the Sequence IIIF test 

with the exception of test length. 

Calibrated Sequence IIIG Lubricant Test 

This 100-hour test evaluates a lubricant’s ability 

to prevent camshaft lobe wear, valve lifter wear 

and high temperature oxidation. In addition, 

varnish and piston deposits are evaluated. 

Operational conditions are similar to the 

Sequence IIIF but at a more severe level. 

Calibrated Sequence IIIGA Lubricant Test 

This 100-hour test evaluates the cold 

temperature viscosity of a lubricant after 

operation at high temperature test conditions. 

Test conditions are identical to the Sequence 

IIIG test. 

Calibrated Sequence IIIGB Lubricant Test 

This 100-hour test evaluates phosphorus 

retention of a lubricant after operation at high 

temperature test conditions. Test conditions are 

identical to the Sequence IIIG test. 

Calibrated Sequence IVA Lubricant Test 

This 100-hour engine dynamometer lubricant 

test is designed to evaluate low temperature 

camshaft lobe wear. It evaluates the VE wear 

aspect that has been eliminated from the VG 

test. 

Calibrated Sequence VG Lubricant Test 


test is designed to evaluate a lubricant’s 

performance in combating low temperature 

sludge and varnish formation. 

Calibrated Sequence VIB Lubricant Test 


test measures the effects of lubricants on fuel 

economy of gasoline engine passenger cars and 

light-duty trucks. 

Calibrated Sequence VID Lubricant Test 


test measures the effects of lubricants on fuel 

economy of gasoline engine passenger cars and 

light-duty trucks equipped with a “low-friction” 

engine. 

Calibrated Sequence VIII Lubricant Test 

This 40-hour test measures lubricant shear 

stability and evaluates a lubricant’s ability to 

inhibit bearing corrosion. 

Calibrated Ball Rust Test 

This 18-hour bench test is designed to simulate 

the Sequence IID test. This test evaluates a 

lubricant’s ability to prevent rust formation on 

critical engine components. 

Diesel Engine Lubricant Certification 

Testing 

Caterpillar 1K Lubricant Test 

This test evaluates the piston deposits, liner 

wear, and oil consumption associated with test 

lubricants using 0.4 percent sulfur fuel. Run on a 

Caterpillar 1Y540 single-cylinder direct injection 

engine, the procedure is steady state at 2,100 

rpm and 8,000 BTU per minute fuel rate for 252 

2

hours. This test is required by CI-4, CH-4 and 

MIL-L-2104F. 

Caterpillar 1M-PC Lubricant Test 

This 120-hour lubricant test is conducted on a 

1Y73 indirect injection single-cylinder engine at 

1,800 rpm and 42 hp. The test evaluates piston 

deposits, ring sticking, ring and cylinder liner 

wear, and piston, ring, and liner scuffing. 

Caterpillar 1N Lubricant Test 


calibrated 1Y540 engine, exactly like the 1K test 

except 0.05 percent sulfur fuel is used. This test 

is required for the CJ-4 category. 

Caterpillar 1P Lubricant Test 

This test evaluates piston deposits, ring sticking, 

ring and cylinder liner wear, and piston, ring and 

liner scuffing, as well as lubricant consumption. 

The test is required for the CH-4 API category. 


calibrated 1Y3700 single-cylinder overhead 

cam, electronically-controlled, direct injection 

engine using 0.05 percent sulfur fuel and a twopiece 

piston with a steel crown and aluminum 

skirt. 

Caterpillar 1R Lubricant Test 

The purpose of this 504-hour test is to evaluate 

the performance of crankcase lubricants with 

respect to piston deposits, ring sticking, ring and 

cylinder wear, piston, ring and liner scuffing, as 

well as lubricant consumption. This test is 

required for the CI-4 category and uses a 

calibrated 1Y3700 engine with 0.05 percent 

sulfur fuel. 

Caterpillar C13 Lubricant Test 

This 500-hour test uses a Caterpillar C13 engine 

with all steel pistons operated at 1,800 rpm and 

1,200 grams per minute fuel rate to evaluate the 

performance of crankcase lubricants with regard 

to piston deposits and lubricant consumption. 

The test is required for the CJ-4 category. 

Mack T8/T8A/T8E Lubricant Test 

Test lubricants are evaluated for their ability to 

minimize viscosity increase and oil filter plugging 

associated with soot loading. The test, required 

for API classifications CH-4, CI-4, and Mack 

EOL/M specifications, uses a 1991 in-line, sixcylinder, 

Mack E7-350, turbocharged, charge 

air-cooled, direct-injection diesel engine at 1,800 

rpm. The engine is operated at rated load for 

250 hours for the T8, 150 hours for the T8A, and 

300 hours for the T8E. 

Mack T10A Lubricant Test 

This 75-hour test evaluates the ability of an 

engine lubricant to control its low temperature 

viscometrics. A prototype E-Tech engine is 

used. This test is required for the CI-4 category. 

Mack T11 Lubricant Test 

This 252-hour test uses a Mack prototype E- 

Tech engine operating at 1,800 rpm with noncondensing 

cooled EGR and production 2002 

heads, injectors and pistons, to evaluate a 

lubricant’s ability to limit viscosity increase with 

high soot loading. This test is part of Mack 

engine lubricant specifications EON+ 03, CI-4+ 

and CJ-4. 

Mack T12 Lubricant Test 

This 300-hour test uses much the same 

hardware as the T10 test, but now has a 

variable geometry turbocharger and production 

EGR cooling heat exchangers. To simulate 2007 

engine operation, EGR rates are increased 

significantly from the T10 levels. Test objectives 

are the same; to minimize cylinder liner, ring and 

bearing wear. This test is required for the CJ-4 

category. 

Roller Follower Wear Test (RFWT) 

This high-soot engine test is used to evaluate 

how well test lubricants limit axle wear in the 

roller cam lifter. For the test, a 6.5-liter, eightcylinder, 

naturally aspirated, indirect-injection 

diesel engine is operated at 1,000 rpm with a 

high load for 50 hours. The test is required for 

CH-4, CI-4, and CJ-4 qualifications. 

Engine Oil Aeration Test (EOAT) 

This 20-hour test, using an International truck, 

7.3-liter engine running at 3,000 rpm and wideopen 

throttle, evaluates an engine lubricant’s 

resistance to aeration. This test is required for 

CH-4, CI-4, and CJ-4 qualifications. 

Cummins ISB Lubricant Test 

This 350-hour test uses a Cummins ISB engine 

and is used to evaluate a crankcase lubricant’s 

ability to reduce camshaft lobe and sliding cam 

follower wear. After an initial 100 hours of steady 

state operation at 1,600 rpm to accumulate 3.25 

percent soot in the oil, the engine is operated for 

250 hours on a 28-second cycle simulating front- 

3

end loader operation. This test is required for 

CJ-4 qualifications. 

Cummins ISM Lubricant Test 

This 200-hour test uses a Cummins ISM engine 

and is intended as a replacement test for the 

M11 EGR, using newer hardware. The engine 

has variable geometry turbo-charging, 

production EGR coolers and EGR valve. It 

evaluates a lubricant’s effectiveness at reducing 

soot related overhead wear, sludge and filter 

plugging. This test is required for CJ-4, as well 

as being an alternative to the M-11 EGR for the 

CI-4 category. 

Specialized Diesel Engine Testing 

SwRI uses many single- and multi-cylinder 

engines to improve the understanding of fuel, 

lubricant and special hardware behavior. 

Standard, experimental and modified test 

procedures are employed. The Institute offers an 

array of services and will prepare proposals and 

facilities for experimental work. Examples of 

developmental activities include: 

Railroad and Marine 

SwRI helps develop and conduct screening tests 

and procedures that correlate with large-scale 

tests to save time and money. 

Fuel Additives 

Using a variety of test engines, SwRI evaluates 

how fuel additives affect combustion deposits, 

fuel consumption, power loss and gain, lubricant 

additive reactions, etc. Fuel additive clean-up 

and keep-clean tests are performed on the GM 

6.5-liter engines. 

Fuel Consumption 

Special testing techniques are used to evaluate 

how lubricants or fuel property changes affect 

engine fuel consumption. 

Alternative Fuels 

Evaluations include optional fuels in a diesel 

engine and extended fuel evaluations. For 

example, appropriate engine and power 

analyses are conducted for diesel fuels mixed 

with alcohols or with esters of cottonseed or 

sunflower oil. 

Fuel System Wear 

New techniques are used to rapidly access the 

wear of fuel-lubricated fuel system components, 

especially pumps. 

Durability 

Durability evaluations are conducted around the 

clock under steady-state or cyclic conditions. 

Injector Deposit/Coking 

Evaluation and product experiments are 

developed to meet specific requirements using a 

range of engines and coking/deposit 

mechanisms. 

Engine Hardware 

Evaluations of engine hardware (pistons, rings, 

cylinder liners, bearings, injectors, etc.) can be 

tailored to meet specific requirements. Tests can 

include special durability procedures and 

evaluation of how metallurgy, surface finish, etc. 

affect part performance. 

Oil Consumption 

SwRI has designed specific programs to 

correlate oil consumption to cylinder liner finish, 

piston ring design, piston design, turbocharger 

effects or other engine parameters in any diesel 

engine. 

New Engine vs. Available Lubricants 

The Institute develops and conducts procedures 

to evaluate the compatibility of available 

lubricants to newly designed engines. 

Valve Guttering 

Evaluations related to this aspect of lubricant 

performance are available on a selection of twocycle 

engines. SwRI is experienced in the 

experimental procedures that enhance valve 

guttering. 

Destructive Evaluations 

Tests to find the “weakest link” are performed 

under maximum power or over-fuel conditions. 

Oil Consumption Apparatus 

SwRI fabricates and evaluates various oil 

consumption measurement devices for diesel 

engines. 

Parts Analysis 

Specialized equipment is used to evaluate and 

screen parts to understand how they can affect 

4

lubricant testing and to determine parts durability 

and predicted service life. SwRI offers 

metallurgical analysis, including electron 

microscopic analysis. 

Ratings 

Institute staff members rate pistons, rings, liners 

and other engine parts to industry standards. 

Specialized ratings, including rating procedure 

development, are available to meet specific or 

unique applications. 

Turbocharger Durability/Lubrication 

Turbocharger durability or engine lubricant 

suitability tests are performed for turbocharged 

engines. 

Tribology and Advanced Lubricant 

Evaluations 

Plint TE-77 Reciprocating Test Rig 

Standard ASTM D5706, D5707, D6079 and 

ISO/DIN 12156-2 procedures as well as customdesigned 

test services are performed using a 

Plint TE-77 test rig to investigate the frictional 

response and wear properties of materials and 

lubricants. Test components can be 

manufactured from specific materials of interest 

and surface finished or textured as desired. 

Post-test wear scar analysis and component 

surface film analysis provide in-depth 

understanding of wear. 

High-Pressure, -Temperature and -Frequency 

Reciprocating Rig 

A modified High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig 

that also provides high pressure and high 

temperature is used to measure the lubricity, or 

ability of a fluid to affect friction and wear, 

between surfaces in relative motion under load. 

The system uses an electromagnetic vibrator to 

oscillate a moving steel ball specimen over a 

small amplitude while pressing it against a 

stationary steel disk. This rig is capable of 

operating up to 300°C and high pressure, 

enabling testing of highly volatile fuels. ASTM 

D6079 and D7688 tests can also be performed. 

Falex Block-on-Ring Test Rig 

Several ASTM standard tests including D2509, 

D2714, D2782, D2981, D3704 and G77 as well 

as customized investigations are conducted 

using the Falex Block-on-Ring device to quantify 

frictional response and wear properties of 

materials and lubricants. Test components can 

be manufactured from specific materials of 

interest and surface finished or textured as 

desired. Post-test wear scar analysis and 

component surface film analysis provide indepth 

understanding of wear mechanisms. 

PCS Instruments Mini Traction Machine 

(MTM2) 

A PCS Instruments Mini Traction Machine is yet 

another method used to investigate the frictional 

response and wear properties of materials and 

lubricants. This machine utilizes a disk and 

ball/barrel that can be rotated at different 

speeds, giving slide roll rations from 0 to 100 

percent. The SwRI rig has been modified to 

allow extended temperature and load ranges. 

There is also a pin-on-disk attachment, disc 

reciprocating mode and real-time wear 

measurement capability. 

JASO Diesel Engine Lubricant 

Testing 

Mitsubishi 4D34T4 Valve Train Wear 

JASO M354:1999 

This 160-hour test evaluates wear resistance on 

valve operating systems for automotive diesel 

engine lubricants using the Mitsubishi 4D34T4 

engine. 

ASTM-TC Procedures for Two-Stroke, 

Air-Cooled Engines 

D4857-12 TC Seq. I (Y350M2 Detergency) 

This 20-hour test primarily evaluates a 

lubricant’s ability to inhibit piston ring sticking 

and piston deposit formation. The fuel to 

lubricant ratio is 50:1. The reference lubricant is 

run in one cylinder, and the candidate lubricant 

is run in the other. 

D4863-13 TC Seq. II (CE50S Lubricity) 

This test evaluates a lubricant’s ability to prevent 

scuffing. The fuel to lubricant ratio is 150:1. 

D4858-13 TC Seq. III (CE50S Pre-Ignition) 


to prevent damage from deposit-induced preignition. 

The fuel to lubricant ratio is 20:1. 

5

NMMA TC-W3 ® 

Procedures for Two-Cycle 

Outboard Engines 

CE50S Lubricity 

This test evaluates how effectively a lubricant 

prevents scuffing. The fuel to lubricant ratio is 

150:1. 

NMMA TC-W3 AF-27 Lubricity 

This test enhances the ability to evaluate the 

lubricity of lubricating oils in two-stroke cycle 

gasoline engines using a refinement of the 

JASO M340-92 and TC-W3 CE-50S lubricity 

tests. 

OMC 40 HP General Performance 

This 98-hour test evaluates how well lubricants 

inhibit piston deposits, ring sticking and general 

engine deposits. The fuel to lubricant ratio is 

100:1. 

OMC 70 HP Detergency 

This 100-hour test evaluates piston ring sticking 

and piston deposits associated with a special 

ring sticking fuel. The fuel to lubricant ratio is 

50:1. 

Mercury 15 HP Detergency 

This 100-hour test evaluates how well lubricants 

inhibit scuffing, ring sticking and wrist pin needle 

bearing gum. The fuel to lubricant ratio is 100:1. 

Pre-Ignition 


to prevent damage from combustion chamber 

deposit-induced pre-ignition. The fuel to 

lubricant ratio is 20:1. 

NMMA FC-W ® and FC-W Catalyst 

Compatible ® Procedures for Four- 

Cycle Outboard Engines 

NMMA FC-W 115 HP General Performance 

Engine Test 

This procedure evaluates the general 

performance of a four-stroke cycle water-cooled 

marine engine lubricant when subjected to fuel 

dilution levels above 7 percent during the course 

of operation. 

JASO FB, FC, FD, EGB, EGC & EGD 

Procedures for Two-Stroke Lubricant 

Engine Testing 

M 342-92 Smoke 

This eight-hour test evaluates the visible smoke 

level emitted from an engine exhaust system 

operating at 10:1 fuel to lubricant ratio. 

Candidate performance is evaluated against a 

known quality reference lubricant. 

M 343-92 Exhaust System Blocking 

This test, which is run until the exhaust system 

deposit formation causes a specified decrease 

in intake vacuum, is run at a fuel to lubricant 

ratio of 5:1. Typical reference test length is 8 to 

12 hours. Candidate performance is evaluated 

against a known quality reference lubricant. 

M 341-92 Detergency 

This test evaluates a lubricant for piston deposit 

formation and ring sticking resistance. The fuel 

to lubricant ratio is 100:1. Candidate 

performance is evaluated against a known 

quality reference lubricant. 

M 340-92 Lubricity 

This eight-hour test measures engine lubricant 

performance with minimal cooling. Candidate 

performance is evaluated against a known 

quality reference lubricant. The fuel to lubricant 

ratio is 50:1. 

M 341-02 Three-Hour Detergency 

This test is based on the one-hour JASO 

detergency test. The engine is operated at a 

higher temperature for the increased duration of 

three hours. The results are more severe than 

those collected during the one-hour test. The 

fuel to lubricant ratio is 50:1. 

Field Test Engine – Complete New 

Powerhead Inspection 

Post-test service is available and can include 

teardown, rating, photos and/or measurement if 

required. 

Field Test Engine – Block and Piston 

Inspection 

Post-test service is available and can include 

teardown, rating, photos and/or measurement if 

required. 

6

Component, Product and Additive 

Testing 

Engine Rating and Measurements 

SwRI offers a wide and varying range of engine 

parts rating, blueprinting and/or measurements 

to meet customer requirements. Engines can be 

removed from vehicles at the test sponsor’s site, 

where work is performed, and then replaced in 

the vehicle, or the engine can be crated and 

shipped to SwRI. The engines can be 

disassembled and the required parts rated, 

measured and weighed. Engines can then be 

reassembled and reinstalled in the vehicle or 

shipped to the sponsor. Any combination of 

parts rating/measurements and the frequency of 

these inspections can be arranged. 

Aircraft Product Testing 

Services include lubricant testing according to 

Federal Test Method 3407 “Navy Hot” and 

materials certification according to FAA 150- 

hour flight simulation test. 

Additive Testing 

The performance of fuel and lubricant additives 

is evaluated for improvements and/or 

detrimental effects. Additives with a base 

reference fluid can be tested per military 

guidelines or other Institute/client-developed 

techniques. 

Sequence Test Development 

When current sequence tests are inappropriate, 

SwRI can develop proprietary or industry-shared 

lubricant test techniques. 

Gaskets and Seals 

Using engine dynamometer test stands, SwRI 

assesses the durability of engine sealing 

components. These materials are analyzed for 

size change, deformation, leakage, corrosion, 

etc. 

Two-Stroke Cycle Tests 

Engine and component durability, power 

determination, fuel and lubricant investigation, 

and other specialized tests are conducted on 

engine dynamometer test stands. 

Test Equipment, Fabrication and Training 

Export Services 

SwRI’s charter encourages the worldwide 

exchange of technology. One of the many 

services provided by the Institute is the design 

and fabrication of custom test equipment and 

engine dynamometer apparatus used to 

evaluate fuels and lubricants. This equipment is 

tailored for the end user’s laboratory facilities 

and uses state-of-the-art computer controls and 

electronic data acquisition. An important feature 

of this service is the training of the end user’s 

personnel in ASTM test procedures, test engine 

rebuild, test equipment operations and 

evaluation of test results. Through technology 

transfer, SwRI helps domestic and foreign 

clients meet the ever-increasing demands on 

petroleum and related products. With complex, 

fired-engine, microprocessor-controlled 

evaluation equipment, the Institute assists 

clients in new lubricant formulation. Such 

technology transfer requires appropriate training 

in the safe and proper operation of all 

equipment, bench tests, instruments, bench 

apparatus, and ancillary laboratory equipment. 

Natural Gas Lubricant Evaluations 

SwRI has utilized various engine platforms for 

the evaluation and study of crankcase lubricants 

utilizing natural gas. The evaluations include 

chemical analysis to measure the lubricant 

degradation throughout the duration of the 

engine test, as well as a measurement of the 

piston deposit formations, engine lubricant 

consumption and engine component durability. 

7

Fuels and Driveline Lubricants 


Mike Lochte, Director .................................................................................. (210) 522-5430 

Brent Shoffner, Manager, Fuels Performance Evaluations .......................................... (210) 522-6986 

Larry Eckhard, Manager, Fleet and Field Evaluations ................................................. (210) 522-2980 

Matt Jackson, Manager, Specialty and Driveline Fluid Evaluations ............................. (210) 522-6981 

8

Fuels and Driveline 

Lubricants Research 

Department 

Mike Lochte, Director 

(210) 522-5430 

Brent Shoffner, Manager 

Fuels Performance Evaluations 

(210) 522-6986 

Larry Eckhard, Manager 

Fleet and Field Evaluations 

(210) 522-2980 

Matt Jackson, Manager 

Specialty and Driveline Fluid Evaluations 

(210) 522-6981 

Transmission Fluid Testing 

General Motors Automatic 

Transmission Fluids Testing 

SwRI conducts the following procedures 

associated with the General Motors automatic 

transmission service fill fluid specification, 

DEXRON ® -VI. 

DEXRON ® -VI Chemical and Bench Tests 

(DEXRON ® -VI Items A-M, and O-U) 

These procedures include tests to evaluate 

automatic transmission fluids for color, 

elemental content, fluid profile, miscibility, 

density, high- and low-temperature viscosity, 

flash and fire points, copper strip corrosion, antifoaming 

properties, corrosion and rust 

protection, film thickness, and effects on seals. 

DEXRON ® -VI Oxidation Test 

This test is run with an electric motor-driven 

General Motors Powertrain 4L60-E automatic 

transmission. The 450-hour test is used to 

determine the oxidation resistance, thermal 

stability, and corrosion protection characteristics 

of a fluid. 

DEXRON ® -VI Cycling Test 

This procedure determines the performance of 

an automatic transmission fluid with respect to 

frictional stability, viscosity stability, lubricating 

properties, oxidation resistance, and corrosion 

protection. The test is run for 42,000 cycles in a 

V-8 engine-driven General Motors 4L60E 

automatic transmission. 

DEXRON ® -VI Plate Clutch Friction Test 

Using the SAE No. 2 Friction Test Machine, this 

test determines the friction characteristics and 

durability of an automatic transmission fluid with 

plate clutch operation. Fluids must provide 

satisfactory performance for 200 hours (36,000 

cycles) of continuous operation. 

DEXRON ® -VI Wear Test 

This test determines the anti-wear properties of 

automatic transmission fluids using an electric 

motor-driven model 104C hydraulic pump. Antiwear 

performance is determined by measuring 

the weight loss of the pump’s vanes and cam 

ring after 100 hours of continuous operation. 

DEXRON ® -VI Aeration Test 

The DEXRON ® -VI Aeration Test Rig utilizes a 

VTi pump, operated under load, to determine the 

air entrainment and density properties of 

automatic transmission fluid as a function of 

temperature. 

DEXRON ® -VI Low Speed Clutch Friction and 

Torque Capacity Test 

The DEXRON ® -VI Low Speed Clutch and 

Torque Capacity Test Rig utilizes a 30 hp 

variable speed electric drive that provides input 

power to a Greening SAE No. 2 Universal Wet 

Friction Material Test Machine through a speedreducing 

gearbox. The purpose of the test is to 

determine the torque capacity and shudder 

tendency of automatic transmission fluid on 

torque converter carbon fiber friction material at 

low rotational speeds. 

Ford Automatic Transmission Fluid 

Testing 

SwRI conducts the following Ford Motor 

Company automatic transmission service fill fluid 

MERCON ® V specification procedures: 

MERCON ® V Chemical and Bench Tests 

(MERCON ® V items 3.1 thru 3.7, 3.9 and 3.10) 

These procedures evaluate automatic 

transmission fluids for miscibility, high- and lowtemperature 

viscosity, color, flash point, copper 

strip corrosion, corrosion and rust protection, 

cleanliness level, anti-foaming properties and 

elastomer compatibility. 

9

MERCON ® V Wear Tests 

The anti-wear properties of an automatic 

transmission fluid are determined by the Vickers 

Vane Pump Wear Test, FZG Wear Test, Four- 

Ball Wear Test, Falex EP Test, and Timken 

Wear Test. 

MERCON ® V Aluminum Beaker Oxidation 

Test (ABOT) 

This bench test determines the oxidation stability 

of automatic transmission fluids in the presence 

of materials used in automatic transmissions. 

The 300-hour test is conducted in an aluminum 

beaker heated by an aluminum block test fixture. 

MERCON ® V Clutch Friction Durability Test 

This test determines the static and dynamic 

torque capacity of an automatic transmission 

fluid when new and after 30,000 cycles of 

continuous operation. The test uses the SAE 

No. 2 Friction Test Machine. 

MERCON ® V Anti-Shudder Durability 

The MERCON ® SP Anti-Shudder Durability 

(ASD) Test Rig utilizes a Greening SAE No. 2 

Universal Wet Friction Test Machine test head, 

operated to determine the frictional 

characteristics of a fluid through high-speed 

clutch engagements, low-speed aging and 

torque sweeps, as well as static breakaway 

measurements. A copper coupon is immersed in 

the test fluid, which is pumped into the test head 

along with instrument air. 

Ford Over-Running Clutch (AX4N OWC) 

Wear Test Procedure 

The goal of this test is to determine the ability of 

a fluid to protect the inner race of the 

overrunning clutch in a free-wheeling situation. 

The test result will be “no trenching” (inner race 

intact) or “trenching” (rollers have worn a visible 

grove in the inner race). 

Allison Severe Duty, Extended Drain 

Interval Automatic Transmission 

Fluid Testing 

SwRI evaluates automatic transmissions for 

severe duty and extended drain interval use 

according to the Allison Transmission TES-295 

specification. 

Allison TES-295 Chemical and Bench Tests 

These tests evaluate fluids for elemental 

content, infrared spectrum, viscosity, flash point, 

fire point, foam resistance, copper strip 

corrosion, corrosion and rust protection, and 

elastomer compatibility. 

Allison TES-295 Oxidation Test 

This test is conducted using an electric motordriven 

GM 4L60-E transmission. The 600-hour 

test is used to determine the oxidation 

resistance, thermal stability and corrosion 

protection characteristics of a fluid. 

Allison TES-295 Wear Tests 

These tests asses the antiwear performance of 

a fluid utilizing the ASTM D5182 gear scuffing 

wear test and a modified version of the ASTM 

D7043 vane pump wear test. 

Allison TES-295 Frictional Properties Tests 

Utilizing the SAE No. 2 Friction Test Machine, 

these tests assess the friction and durability 

characteristics of a fluid utilizing two friction 

materials. The graphitic material is evaluated for 

5,500 continuous test cycles. The paper 

material is evaluated for 30,000 continuous 

cycles. 

Allison On-Highway Automatic 


SwRI evaluates automatic transmissions for onhighway 

use according to the Allison 

Transmission TES-389 specification. 

Allison TES-389 Chemical and Bench Tests 

These tests evaluate fluids for color, elemental 

content, flash point, cleanliness, miscibility, 

water content, viscosity, shear stability, copper 

strip corrosion, corrosion and rust protection, 

foam resistance and elastomer compatibility. 

Allison TES-389 Wear Test 


a fluid using an electric motor-driven model 

104C hydraulic pump. Antiwear performance is 

determined by measuring the weight loss of the 

pump’s vanes and cam ring after 100 hours of 

continuous operation. 

Allison TES-389 Oxidation Resistance Test 

This 300-hour test determines the oxidation 


10

protection characteristics of a fluid through a 

modified aluminum beaker oxidation test 

procedure. 

Allison TES-389 Friction Tests 

These tests utilize the SAE No. 2 Friction Test 

Machine to assess the friction characteristics 

and durability of a fluid. Fluids are evaluated 

using two different friction materials, each for 

150 hours. 

Allison Heavy-Duty Automatic 


SwRI evaluates heavy-duty diesel engine 

lubricants and higher viscosity automatic 

transmission fluids according to the Allison 

Transmission TES-439 Off-Highway 

Transmission Fluid Specification. 

Allison TES-439 Chemical and Bench Test 

These tests evaluate fluids for elemental 

content, total acid number, flash point, high- and 

low-temperature viscosity, antifoaming 

properties, copper strip corrosion, corrosion and 

rust protection, glycol response and elastomeric 

compatibility. 

Allison TES-439 Oxidation Test 



protection characteristics of fluids. This test is 

conducted as a modified aluminum beaker 

oxidation test. 

Allison TES-439 Graphite High-Energy 

Friction Test 

Using the SAE No. 2 Friction Test Machine, the 

friction characteristics and durability of fluids are 

determined on heavy-duty graphite clutch plates. 

Fluids must provide satisfactory performance for 

5,500 cycles of continuous operation. 

JASO SAE #2 Testing 

JASO T903:2011 and M348:2002 Clutch 

Friction Test 

These tests determine a fluid’s friction 

characteristics and durability. The procedures 

simulate satisfactory performance in a normally 

functioning transmission under service 

conditions. Performance of these tests requires 

the SAE No. 2 Friction Test Machine. Test 

duration is 1,000 cycles for T903:2011 and 

5,000 cycles for M348:2002. Clutches are 

engaged once each cycle and absorb 24,500 

joules of total energy. Fluid temperature is 

maintained at 100°C. The steel and composition 

plates are evaluated. Both test procedures are 

considered “modified,” as they are conducted 

using a sump size of 750 ml. 

Caterpillar Transmission and 

Drivetrain Fluid Testing 

SwRI conducts the following Caterpillar, Inc., 

powershift transmission and drivetrain fluid test 

procedures: 

TO-4 Physical Properties 

These tests evaluate fluids for homogeneity, 

fluid compatibility, foaming characteristics, 

humidity, corrosion, copper corrosion, lowtemperature 

storage, flash and fire points, pour 

point and water content. 

TO-4 Elastomer Compatibility 

These tests evaluate compatibility with 

fluoroelastomer compounds, seals, O-rings and 

other elastomeric materials. 

TO-4 Oxidation Stability 


resistance, thermal stability, and corrosion 

protection characteristics of fluids. This test, 

conducted with an electric motor-driven 4L60-E 

automatic transmission, is similar to the test 

specified by DEXRON ® -II(E). 

TO-4 Gear Wear Test (ASTM D4998) 

Using the FZG rig, the gear-wear protection 

provided by lubricants is evaluated according to 

ASTM D4998. 

TO-4 Pump Wear Test 

This test evaluates the anti-wear characteristics 

of hydraulic fluids by measuring cam ring and 

vane weight loss for a 35VQ25A pump. The 

pump operates for 50 hours at an outlet 

pressure of 3,000 psi and an inlet fluid 

temperature of 203°F. This test is the same as 

the Vickers (Eaton) 35VQ25A wear test. The 

first three or four of five tests must pass. 

TO-4 Friction Properties 

Using six different materials and seven total 

tests, the frictional characteristics of lubricating 

fluids are evaluated using the Link Engineering 

Model M1158 Test Machine. 

11

Hydraulic Fluid Testing 

DIN 51389-2 Vane Pump Wear Test 

The purpose of this test is to determine the antiwear 

properties of hydraulic fluids. The fluid is 

run through an electric-driven vane pump for 

250 hours at an inlet temperature selected to 

maintain a kinematic viscosity of 13 mm 2 /sec. 

The pump components are weighed before and 

after the test. Weight loss determines the fluid 

performance. 

Conestoga Pump Test (ASTM D7043) 

The purpose of this test is to determine the antiwear 

properties of hydraulic fluids. The fluid is 

run through an electric-driven Model 104C 

hydraulic pump for 100 hours. The pump’s 

vanes and cam ring are weighed before and 

after the test. Weight loss determines the fluid 

performance. 

Eaton 35VQ25A Pump Test 

This test evaluates the anti-wear characteristics 

of hydraulic fluids by measuring cam ring and 

vane weight loss for a 35VQ25A pump. The 

pump operates for 50 hours at an outlet 

pressure of 3,000 psi and an inlet fluid 

temperature of 203°F. This test is the same as 

the Vickers 35VQ25A wear test. The first three 

or four of five tests must pass. 

Denison T6H20C Hybrid Pump - Phase I 

Denison T6H20C Hybrid Pump - Phase II 

These tests sponsored by Denison evaluate the 

effect of hydraulic fluid on flow, pressure loss 

and wear using a hybrid T6H style piston and 

vane pump run near rated conditions. The tests 

are made up of a break-in phase, a dry fluid 

testing phase (no water added), and a wet fluid 

(water added) testing phase. The dry and wet 

phases are a little over 300 hours long each and 

are priced separately. These are cyclic tests with 

the outlet pressures for both pumps changing 

every two seconds. The same test pump is used 

for both wet and dry phases. 

Manual Transmission and Rear Axle 

Gear Lubricant Performance Testing 

Required bench and performance tests are 

conducted to qualify automotive gear lubricants 

under various specifications. Numerous other 

test procedures for the lubricant and additive 

industries may be conducted, as well as custom 

programs tailored to clients’ individual needs. 

L-20 High-Torque Test 

This test determines the load-carrying, wear, 

and extreme pressure characteristics of gear 

lubricants under low-speed, high-torque 

operating conditions. A test axle is operated for 

30 hours at 32,311 lb.-in. of ring gear torque 

while the axle lubricant is cycled between 93°C 

(200°F) and 121°C (250°F). No longer part of 

U.S. requirements, this procedure has been 

replaced by L-37, although L-20 is used for 

some international clients and for screening and 

research in the United States. 

L-33-1 Moisture Corrosion Test (ASTM 

D7038) 

To determine the corrosion prevention 

properties of gear lubricants, an axle is filled with 

40 ounces of test lubricant and one ounce of 

distilled water and operated for four hours at 

2,500 rpm and 180°F. After being soaked for 

162 hours at 51°C (125°F), the axle is 

disassembled and rated for rust. This test is 

referred to in FTMS No. 791, MIL-PRF-2105E, 

SAE J2360, API GL-5 and Federal Test Method 

5326.1. 

L-37 High-Torque Test (ASTM D6121) 

To determine the load-carrying, wear, and 

extreme pressure characteristics of gear 

lubricants, a test axle is operated under highspeed, 

low-torque and low-speed, high-torque 

conditions. A test axle is first operated for 100 

minutes at 440 axle rpm, 147.2°C (297°F) 

lubricant temperature, and 9,460 lb.-in. of ring 

gear torque and then operated for 24 hours at 

80 axle rpm, 135°C (275°F) lubricant 

temperature and a higher ring gear torque. This 

method is referred to in FTMS No. 791, MIL- 

PRF-2105E, SAE J2360, API GL-5 and Federal 

Test Method 6507.1. 

L-42 High-Speed Shock Axle Test 

(ASTM D7452) 

This high-speed shock test determines a 

lubricant’s ability to prevent coast-side pinion 

and ring gear scoring. The axle torque and coast 

down rates are measured and recorded. This 

method is referred to in FTMS No. 791, MIL- 

PRF-2105E, SAE J2360, API GL-5 and Federal 

Test Method 6507.1. 

L-60-1 Thermal and Oxidative Stability Test 

(ASTM D5704) 

This method determines lubricant deterioration 

under severe thermal and oxidative conditions. 

12

A set of spur gears is rotated at 1,750 rpm for 50 

hours. The lubricant is maintained at 163°C 

(325°F) with controlled airflow in the presence of 

a copper catalyst. The physical and chemical 

properties of the lubricant and deposits on the 

test gears are evaluated at the end of the test. 

This method is referred to in FTMS No. 791, 

MIL-PRF-2105E, SAE J2360, API GL-5, Federal 

Test Method 2504 and API MT-1 (ASTM D 

5760). 

FZG Gear Wear Test (ASTM D4998) 

To evaluate the anti-wear properties of 

lubricants, particularly hydraulic fluids for 

tractors, test gears on the FZG rig are operated 

at 100 rpm for 20 hours at 121°C (250°F) and 

load stage 10. The gears are weighed before 

and after the test and the weight loss associated 

with wear indicates lubricant anti-wear 

performance. 

FZG Load Stage Test (ASTM D5182) 

Various speeds, temperatures, etc. are available 

to evaluate the load-carrying capacity of 

lubricants. The variable speed FZG test rig runs 

through a dozen 15-minute stages with 

incremental increases in load until failure or until 

the test sequence is complete. Twenty 

millimeters of tooth scuffing indicate test failure. 

This test method is referenced in API MT-1 

(ASTM D 5760) and other OEM specifications. 

Axle Efficiency Test 

SwRI has a stand designed and constructed at 

SwRI to accept various types of rear-wheel drive 

axle assemblies. This stand is equipped with a 

Prism data acquisition system and is computer 

controlled. It has the capability of running the 

torque sweep method, simulating the Federal 

Test Procedure (FTP) light-duty truck highway 

fuel economy test cycle using a dynamic 

procedure and the heavy-duty SAE J1321, also 

using a dynamic procedure. In addition, the 

stand has the capability of programming test 

procedures/profiles specifically designed by 

customers. 

FZG Pitting Test with Type C Gear 

This test procedure is used to discriminate 

different lubricants based upon their ability to 

prevent pitting, a fatigue failure due to rolling 

contact. The test consists of a break-in phase 

and a durability phase. Depending on lubricant 

viscosity, the durability phase loading will vary. 

The test normally runs 300 hours and is usually 

carried out in triplicate to cover outliers. 

FZG Step Load (A10/16.6R/90:120) 

This test procedure is for industrial or 

automotive gear lubricants that exceed the loadcarrying 

capacity of the standard FZG load 

stage test (A/8.3/90). The smaller 10 mm wide 

gears are run in the reverse direction at 2910 

rpm through a dozen 7.5-minute stages with 

incremental increases in load until failure or until 

the test sequence is complete. The test can run 

at either 90°C or 120°C (194°F or 248°F). Ten 

millimeters of tooth scuffing indicates test failure. 

A pass in load stage nine at 90°C (194°F) 

indicates GL-5 or better performance. 

Manual Transmission High-Temperature 

Cyclic Durability Test (ASTM D5579) 

The high-low range synchronizer of a Mack 

T2180 transmission is cycled with lubricant 

temperatures at 121°C (250°F). The shift time is 

monitored continuously during the test. As the 

lubricant degrades, the shift time increases. The 

test continues until two “missed shifts” are 

reached. This test is part of Mack Trucks, Inc., 

Gear Oil Specifications GO-H and GO-H/S, 

Eaton PS-164 rev. 7, as well as the industry 

specification API MT-1 (ASTM D5760) and MIL- 

PRF-2105E (ASTM D5760). 

SSP 180 Synchronizer 

The purpose of this test is to evaluate the 

frictional performance of a lubricant in a 

synchronizer assembly. The test is conducted in 

an SSP-180 test machine. The synchronizer is 

loaded by a flywheel that is accelerated and 

decelerated between rest and top speed. Test 

conditions are dependent upon the type of 

synchronizer tested. 

Mack GO-J/J+ and Eaton PS-163 Test 

Procedures 

Mack and Eaton call for modified versions of 

some of the axle tests listed above. SwRI can 

perform the modified tests for these procedures 

and act as an intermediary for OEM contact 

when requested. 

13

Manual Transmission and Dry Clutch 

Transmission (dDCT) Fluid Testing 

General Motors Dry Dual Clutch 

Transmissions Fluids Testing 

SwRI conducts the following procedures 

associated with the General Motors DEXRON ® - 

Dry Dual Clutch Transmission (dDCT) Gear Box 

and Manual Transmission Fluid Specification. 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Chemical and Bench Tests 

These procedures include tests to evaluate dry 

dual clutch and manual transmission fluids for 

appearance, elemental content, water content, 

fluid profile, miscibility, density, storage and 

compatibility characteristics, high- and lowtemperature 

viscosity, pour point, flash point, 

total acid and base number, copper corrosion, 

oxidation stability, shear stability, volatility, antifoaming 

properties, film thickness, and effects 

on seals. 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Wear Test 


dry dual clutch and manual transmission fluids 

using electric motor driven model 104C 

hydraulic pump. Anti-wear performance is 

determined by measuring the weight loss of the 

pump’s vanes and cam ring after 100 hours of 

continuous operation. 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Scuffing Protection Test 

The FZG Step Load (A10/16.6R/90) test 

procedure is used for fluids that exceed the 

extreme pressure characteristics of the standard 

FZG load stage test. The smaller 10 mm wide 

gears are run in the reverse direction through 12 

7.5 minute stages with incremental increases in 

load until failure or until the test sequence is 

complete. The test is run at 90°C. 

DEXRON ® -dDCT Synchronizer Function Test 

The purpose of this test is to evaluate the 

frictional performance of a dry dual clutch or 

manual transmission fluid in a synchronizer 

assembly. The test is conducted in the SSP-180 

test machine. The test lubricant temperature is 

controlled while the synchronizer is shifted. The 

synchronizer is loaded by a flywheel that is 

accelerated and decelerated between rest and 

top speed. The test conditions are dependent 

upon the type of synchronizer tested. 

Tractor Testing 

Tractor Field Tests 

Tractors across the country operate with test 

fluids monitored by SwRI personnel. Lubricantrelated 

testing has been conducted on John 

Deere, New Holland and CASE tractors. 

Tractor Fluids Specification Testing 

New Holland specifications for tractor hydraulic 

fluids require satisfactory performance in gear 

wear protection, independent power take off 

(IPTO) and powershift clutch capacity, and 

brake chatter protection. 

Tractor Hydraulic Fluid Testing 

John Deere J20 specifications for tractor 

hydraulic fluid require satisfactory performance 

of test lubricants in tests that simulate severe 

duty of farm tractor and industrial equipment 

components. 

JDQ-84 Dynamic Corrosion Sauer-Danfoss 

Pump Test 

This test screens fluids that cause corrosion of 

copper-containing metals in high-pressure 

pumps. A Sauer-Danfoss 90 Series axial piston 

pump is operated for 25 hours at 3,000 psi. 

Water is then added to the test fluid. The output 

pressure of the pump is increased to 5,500 psi 

and maintained at that pressure for another 200 

hours. 

JDQ-94 Powershift Transmission Clutch 

Friction Test 

This test assesses the effects of tractor 

hydraulic fluids on wet clutch capacity, dynamic 

friction coefficient, and clutch disc wear. A 200 

hp John Deere engine drives a modified John 

Deere 4850 15-speed, powershift transmission, 

loaded by an eddy current dynamometer. A 

typical test cycle consists of eight seconds of 

slipping the clutch at high dynamometer load 

and engine power. 

JDQ-102 Shear Stability 

This test determines the shear stable viscosity of 

a tractor hydraulic fluid. Using a diesel injection 

pump and 6 fuel injectors for a John Deere 6466 

engine, the fluid is circulated under high 

pressure through the fine orifices of the 

injectors. This test is also used to prepare a 

fluid for the JDQ-95 spiral bevel/final drive wear 

test. 

14

JDQ-95 Spiral Bevel/Final Drive Wear Test 

This 50-hour test evaluates how effectively 

tractor hydraulic fluids protect the spiral bevel 

gears from scoring and the final drive planetary 

reduction gears from surface distress and wear. 

A John Deere engine and powershift 

transmission drive an industrial axle housing the 

test gears. A pair of high torque dynamometers 

provide load. 

JDQ-96B Torque Variation and Brake Friction 

Retention Test 

A John Deere 1400 series industrial axle 

equipped with annular wet disk brakes is used 

for the test axle. The brake chatter test consists 

of 30,000 brake engagements. After 1,000, 

10,000, 20,000 and 30,000 brake engagements, 

a series of brake chatter tests are performed at 

different wheel speeds, brake pressures and 

temperatures. 

John Deere Hydraulic Pump Shear Stability 

This 48-hour test uses a Sauer-Danfoss 90 

series axial piston pump to circulate fluid across 

a hydraulic relief valve to determine the shear 

stable viscosity of a tractor hydraulic fluid. This 

test is also used to prepare a fluid for the JDQ- 

95 spiral bevel/final drive wear test. 

JDQ-95A Spiral Bevel Gear Wear 

This 50-hour test evaluates how effectively a 

tractor hydraulic fluid protects the spiral bevel 

gear set from distress. An electric motor drives 

the front axle center section from a John Deere 

8000 series tractor with independent link 

suspension, and a pair of high torque dry brake 

dynamometers provides the load. 

John Deere High Energy Clutch 

This test assesses the effects of tractor 

hydraulic fluids on the degradation of dynamic 

friction coefficient and clutch disk wear. The test 

uses a modified driveline from a John Deere 

7000 series tractor with a “PowrReverser” 

transmission. A typical test cycle consists of 

fixing the driveline output and slipping the clutch 

for several seconds before releasing the output 

to spin freely and cool the transmission. This 

cycle is repeated 2,000 times using the forward 

clutches and 2,000 times using the reverse 

clutches. 

John Deere TZT Oxidation 



protection characteristics of fluids. The test is 

conducted with an electric motor-driven 

hydrostatic transmission from a John Deere 

zero-turn mower. 

Automotive Fleet Testing 

To assist new product development, SwRI 

applies a variety of fleet and laboratory 

procedures that can be adapted to a variety of 

research requirements. Services include gear 

and gear lubricant evaluations, fleet evaluation 

of experimental engines and components and 

examination of fuel deposit tendencies in 

vehicles. 

Axle and Axle Lubricant Evaluations, Heavy- 

Duty 

The Institute conducts in-service evaluations of 

heavy-duty axles; frequently for MIL-PRF-2105E 

and/or standard SAE J2360 gear lubricant 

qualification programs. Three or four trucks are 

operated for 200,000 miles on test lubricants. 

Performance of a lubricant is judged from the 

appearance of gears, bearings and carrier. 

Periodic lubricant samples are analyzed for wear 

metals, additives and contaminants. 

Axle and Axle Lubricant Evaluations, 

Light-Duty 

SwRI conducts 100,000-mile in-service 

evaluations of gear lubricants in light-duty 

vehicles such as pickups and cargo vans. These 

evaluations are frequently related to MIL-PRF- 

2105E and/or standard SAE J2360 qualification 

programs. 

Truck Axle Lubricant Fuel Economy 

The fuel economy benefits of axle lubricants in 

light- and heavy-duty trucks are evaluated using 

SAE procedures. Heavy-duty trucks outfitted 

with precision fuel consumption measurement 

equipment are operated on road routes with 

precise control of speed, time and distance. 

Light-duty trucks operate similarly but on a 

chassis dynamometer following a prescribed 

cycle. 

Crankcase Engine Lubricant Fuel Economy 

The fuel economy benefits associated with 

engine lubricants in heavy-duty vehicles are 

evaluated by SAE procedures that involve 

operation on road routes with precision fuel 

consumption measuring equipment and precise 

control of speed, time and distance. 

15

Truck Fuel Economy Improvements 

The fuel economy benefits associated with 

various fuel additives, wheels, tires, 

aerodynamic devices, etc., in heavy-duty trucks 

are evaluated by SAE and TMC procedures. 

Trucks operate on road routes with precision 

fuel consumption measuring equipment and 

precise control of speed, time and distance. 

Durability and Reliability Evaluation of 

Engine/Vehicle Compatibility 

Durability and reliability of medium- and heavyduty 

diesel- and alternative-fueled engines are 

evaluated in Class 7 and 8 trucks and buses on 

city and highway routes. Engine performance, 

reliability and maintainability are determined by 

this 100,000-mile test. 

Road Simulators/Mileage Accumulation 

Dynamometers 

Rapid vehicle mileage accumulation programs 

are performed on 24 road simulators capable of 

speeds up to 100 miles per hour on vehicles up 

to 7,000 pounds at steady-state conditions or 

programmed transient driving cycles. The road 

simulators support two- and four-wheel drive 

vehicles with up to 400 horsepower. 

Temperature and humidity controlled engine 

inlet air can be provided on four of the 24 units. 

Vehicle Test Tracks 

SwRI performs vehicle testing on a variety of 

test tracks including a one-mile track located on 

the SwRI grounds. High-speed vehicle testing is 

performed on an eight-mile track including fuel 

economy measurement, driveability, endurance 

and component evaluations. 

Off-Highway Evaluations 

The Institute provides multiple courses with 

varying configurations on its grounds for offhighway 

evaluations of vehicles such as 

agricultural machinery, recreational and 

sport/utility vehicles, and industrial equipment. 

Vehicle operation parameters can be monitored 

on a real-time basis. 

John Deere Engine Coolant Cavitation Test 

A 250-hour test on a Deere 6101H engine is 

used to evaluate a coolant’s ability to suppress 

cavitation and corrosion damage to power 

cylinder liners. 

Specialized Fuel Testing 

Vehicle Evaluations for Fuel Injector 

Plugging 

Vehicles equipped with multi-port fuel injection 

systems encounter injector-plugging problems 

associated with gasolines with inadequate 

amounts of detergents. In severe cases, this 

problem can render a vehicle inoperative. This 

test reproduces fuel injector plugging under 

controlled conditions to assess the effect of fuel 

additives as they relate to injector “clean-up” and 

“keep-clean.” The keep-clean test is conducted 

according to ASTM D 5598 protocol. During the 

test, injector flows and spray patterns are 

evaluated. Fuel injector spray patterns can be 

photo-documented to provide a visual record of 

test results. 

Intake System and Combustion Chamber 

Deposits 

The Institute evaluates fuels and fuel additives 

for intake system cleanliness. The BMW 10,000- 

Mile (ASTM D5500 protocol) and Ford 2.3 Liter 

Intake Valve Deposit Tests (ASTM D6201 

protocol) qualify fuels and fuel additives for the 

Environmental Protection Agency, the California 

Air Resources Board and Top Tier gasoline 

specifications. Specialized fuel evaluation 

programs focus on current vehicles, both foreign 

and domestic. The relationship between engine 

design, fuel properties and additive performance 

is investigated. Evaluation techniques include 

deposit analysis, combustion chamber deposit 

thickness measurements and deposit weight 

measurements. 

Intake Valve-Sticking Evaluations 

Vehicle test programs are conducted to assess 

the effect of fuels and fuel additives on intake 

valve sticking. The ability of fuels to prevent 

intake valve stem deposits from causing the 

intake valves to stick at cold temperatures -20°C 

(-4°F) can be evaluated. 

Vehicle Driveability and Performance Testing 

SwRI conducts CRC-type vehicle driveability 

and performance tests to evaluate vehicle 

operation as it relates to test fuels, additives and 

vehicle components. Onsite track facilities, as 

well as the trained personnel and specialized 

equipment necessary for these tests, are 

available. Cold chambers allow vehicle soak 

temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). 

16

Vehicle Octane Requirement and ORI 

Evaluations 

Fleet programs for octane requirement and 

octane requirement increase (ORI) assess 

engine-operating parameters as related to fuel 

octane number and combustion requirements. 

The CRC-E-15 Road Test method is used for 

these evaluations, and the prescribed reference 

fuels are in inventory. 

Alternative Fuels Testing (Methanol, Ethanol, 

Natural Gas and others) 

For spark-ignition and compression-ignition 

engines, the tests evaluate how test fuels affect 

engine durability or lubricant suitability. 

Octane Requirement Increase (ORI) 

While determining how well various 

gasolines/additives prevent combustion 

chamber deposits, this test also measures the 

resulting octane requirement increase. 

Gasoline Direct Injection GDI) Fuel Injector 

Deposits 

A variety of specialized test methods are 

available to characterize fuel deposits in GDI 

injectors. These include both vehicle and engine 

dynamometer-based procedures and may 

include injector flow measurements, high speed 

video for visualization of spray patterns and 

changes in exhaust particulate matter (PM) 

emissions. 

Sequential Central Port Injection Fouling 

Test 

The effects of fuel additives related to fuel 

injector poppet nozzle sticking are assessed 

during an eight-day test procedure using a 

General Motors vehicle equipped with the 

Sequential Central Port Injection (SCPI) system. 

The SCPI fuel system is susceptible to fuelderived 

deposits that can cause poppet sticking, 

which can render the injector inoperable. 

17

Petroleum Products Research Department 

Gerry Estrada, Director ................................................................................ (210) 522-3006 

Robert Legg, Manager, Fuels Analysis Laboratory...................................................... (210) 522-2701 

Michelle Ratchford, Manager, Fuels Surveys/Fuels Conformance .............................. (210) 522-2986 

Ken Jacks, Manager, Lubricant Analysis Laboratory ................................................... (210) 522-2989 

18

Petroleum Products 


Gerry Estrada, Director 

(210) 522-3006 

Robert Legg, Manager 

Fuels Analysis Laboratory 

(210) 522-2071 

Michelle Ratchford, Manager 

Fuel Surveys/Fuels Conformance 

(210) 522-2986 

Ken Jacks, Manager 

Lubricant Analysis Laboratory 

(210) 522-2989 

The Petroleum Products Research Department 

provides analytical and physical testing required 

by clients and other SwRI departments to 

evaluate and qualify all fuels, lubricants and 

functional fluids. Specification tests are 

performed on gasolines, diesel fuels, synthetic 

or exotic fuels, crankcase lubricants, automatic 

transmission fluids, coolants and greases, 

among others. In addition to standard tests such 

as ASTM, UOP, SAE and others, a number of 

independent programs support clients’ efforts to 

characterize or evaluate a broad range of 

petroleum and automotive products. Programs 

specifically designed by clients to satisfy their 

needs or requirements are provided in a timely, 

professional manner. In addition, SwRI offers 

innovative approaches or tailored research 

programs to solve unique or unusual problems. 

The department welcomes confidential inquiries 

and discussions with clients who want to 

address specific problems, to evaluate products 

or to improve product performance. Among the 

many services provided by the department are 

the following: 

Fuel, Lubricant and Fluid Inspection 

ASTM procedures determine the chemical and 

physical properties of gasoline, aviation, 

biodiesel and middle distillate fuels; engine 

crankcase lubricants, hydraulic fluids, automatic 

transmission fluids, gear lubricants, greases and 

coolants. 

Metals Analyses 

ICP, energy- and wave-length dispersive X-ray, 

and other techniques are used to determine 

wear metals in used lubricants, transmission 

fluids and turbine lubricants; additive metals in 

new lubricants, including transmission fluids, 

gear lubricants, turbine fluids, coolants and 

greases; metals in gasoline, diesel fuel 

lubricants and jet fuel, including phosphorus; 

military certification for additives in engine 

lubricants; metals in captured exhaust 

particulate samples and engine deposits; metals 

in crude oils; and sulfur, carbon, hydrogen and 

nitrogen in gasoline, diesel fuel, crude oil, etc. 

Fuel Conformance/Fuel Surveys/Field 

Studies 

The Institute performs national fuel and lubricant 

quality assurance surveys to: determine the 

variation in physical and chemical properties of 

gasoline and diesel fuels at terminals, refineries 

and retail outlets of major petroleum marketers 

throughout the United States; and surveys to 

procure and analyze the quality of engine 

lubricants and transmission fluids as blended, 

branded and marketed. Field sampling services 

include sample acquisition at automotive 

dealerships. 

Trace Organic Analysis 

PPRD performs analysis for polycyclic aromatic 

hydrocarbons, (PAH), nitro-PAH and other 

organic species in fuels, lubricants or emission 

samples. 

Laboratory Engine Technology 

SwRI uses various evaluations and studies 

utilizing special engine and bench protocols to 

evaluate carburetor, fuel injector and intakevalve 

deposit-forming tendencies of gasolines; 

to determine Research Octane Number (RON), 

Motor Octane Number (MON) and Cetane 

Number (CN); and to train research specialists 

in research, motor and cetane engine use, 

covering fundamental fuel testing concepts and 

detailed engine component coverage with 

reference to function, service requirements and 

overhauls. 

SwRI-developed Instruments 

The Institute has developed specialized test 

procedures and instruments for fuel and 

lubricant research, such as an Intake Valve 

Deposit Apparatus (IVDA) to predict the depositforming 

characteristics of a gasoline or gasoline 

and detergent additive blend, if it were evaluated 

in a full-scale engine; a CRC Port Fuel Injector 

(PFI) Test Apparatus to evaluate the fouling 

19

tendencies of gasolines and the effectiveness of 

additives; a Gear Oil Scuff Test (GOST) 

Apparatus, which accurately predicts the loadcarrying 

characteristics of a test lubricant as 

measured by either the Ryder of FZG load stage 

gear tests; and an Induction System Deposit 

(ISD) apparatus to measure intake valve 

deposits associated with gasolines. 

Petroleum Products Research 

A variety of performance and research services 

are available to help develop automotive 

chemicals, such as hydraulic fluids, synthetic 

lubricants and fluids, coolants and cleaners, 

greases and grease additives, fuel additives, 

lubricant additives, gear lubricant additives and 

low-friction lubricants. 

Used Lubricant Field Studies 

A full complement of ASTM procedures is 

available to evaluate lubricant and coolant 

performance for in-service engines and vehicles, 

and maintenance programs to prevent 

catastrophic engine failure. 

Transmission Fluids 

Oxidation, rust, copper corrosion, shear stability, 

seal degradation, coefficient of friction, foam, 

miscibility and compatibility, and lowtemperature 

viscosities. 

Industrial Lubricants 

Thermal stability, rust, extreme pressure, wear, 

foam, miscibility and compatibility, and 

evaporation losses. 

Engine Coolants 

Antifreeze glassware corrosion, aluminum 

corrosion, antifreeze effect on automotive 

finishes, boiling point of antifreeze, foaming 

tendency of antifreeze, freezing point of 

antifreeze, pH of antifreeze, reserve alkalinity of 

antifreeze, water content of antifreeze, simulated 

service test, cavitation test, ash content and 

specific gravity. 

Procedural Development 

New or novel analytical procedures or in-service 

performance simulations can be arranged using 

analytical methods, bench testing, and lubricity, 

friction and wear testing. 

Trend Analysis 

SwRI evaluates fleet and motor pool lubricants 

to assure timely lubricant changes and to 

determine the performance of new formulations, 

as well as evaluation of industrial lubricants for 

changes in condition for maintenance purposes. 

Lubricants and Fluid Evaluations 

Laboratory ASTM, FTM, UOP and other tests for 

lubricants and functional fluids include: 

Engine Lubricants 

Oxidation, varnish formation, dispersancy, 

detergency, thermal stability, rust, corrosion, 

shear stability, foam, seal degradation, and 

miscibility and compatibility. 

Gear Lubricants 

Oxidation, thermal stability, rust, copper 

corrosion, seal degradation, extreme pressure 

and wear, coefficient of friction, foam and 

miscibility and compatibility. 

20

Fuels and Lubricants Technology Department 

Gary Bessee, Director ................................................................................... (210) 522-6941 

Scott Hutzler, Manager, Fluids Filtration and Handling Research ...............................(210) 522-6978 

Ed Frame, Manager, Fuels, Lubricants and Fluids Applications .................................(210) 522-2515 

Larry Hollingsworth, Group Leader, Fuel Systems and Contamination Research ......(210) 522-5711 

Martin Treuhaft, Manager, Filtration and Fine Particle Technology .............................(210) 522-2626 

21

Fuels and Lubricants 

Technology Department 

Gary Bessee, Director 

(210) 522-6941 

Scott Hutzler, Manager 

Fluids Filtration and Handling Research 

(210) 522-6978 

Ed Frame, Manager 

Fuels, Lubricants and Fluids Applications 

(210) 522-2515 

Larry Hollingsworth, Group Leader 

Fuel Systems and Contamination Research 

(210) 522-5711 

Martin Treuhaft, Manager 

Filtration and Fine Particle Technology 

(210) 522-2626 

The Fuels and Lubricants Technology 

Department provides a range of non-routine 

testing and evaluation services focused on the 

performance of transportation-related fluids. 

Projects typically examine the characteristics 

and performance of the fuels, engine, power 

transmission and gear lubricants, and hydraulic 

fluids used in land-based vehicles. A major 

facility within the department is devoted to gas 

turbine engine fuels and combustion. Programs 

conducted for both commercial and government 

clients include product development support, 

problem investigation services and field troubleshooting. 

The Fuels and Lubricants Technology 

Department also operates the U.S. Army 

TARDEC Fuels and Lubricants Research 

Facility, an extension of the U.S. Army Tank 

Automotive Research, Development and 

Engineering Center in Warren, Michigan. Since 

1957, this government-owned, contractoroperated 

facility physically located on the 

grounds of Southwest Research Institute, has 

provided fuel and lubricant research services to 

the Army, Department of Defense, Department 

of Energy and other government agencies. 

Automotive Filtration Performance Testing 

Oil filters are evaluated using SAE and ISO test 

procedures, which involves systems tests for 

resistance to flow, filter capacity, contaminant 

removal characteristics and single-pass particle 

retention; and associated test sequences for 

media migration, collapse test and hydrostatic 

burst. 

Fluids Filtration and Handling Research 

The Fluids Filtration and Handling Research 

Section perform a wide variety of research in the 

Fuels and Lubricants Technology Department. 

The technical strengths of the group include 

sensor development, liquid filtration, 

contamination control and identification, fuel and 

water logistics, and test method development. 

Technical strengths and contracts include: 

• Material Compatibility 

• Aviation filtration qualification 

• Fluid filtration and cleanliness 

• Fuel logistics 

• Advanced methods of fuel property 

measurement 

• Sensors and instrumentation development 

• Chromatography 

• Coolant testing 

• Analysis of LPG 

• Particle counting 

• Fuels filtration 

• Lubrication filtration 

• Soot contamination 

• Debris analysis 

• Test method development 

• Field service 

• Aviation fuel fit-for-purpose testing 

Fuels, Lubricants, and Fluids Applications 

The Fuels, Lubricants, and Fluids Applications 

Group in the Fuels and Lubricants Technology 

Department performs a wide variety of fuel, 

lubricant, and engine and fuel system 

investigations for the Department of Defense, 

government agencies and commercial clients. 

Technical strengths and contracts include: 

• Investigations of fuel/lubricant/engine 

interactions 

• Fuel and fluid flammability hazard 

assessments 

• Alternative fuels development and utilization 

• Fuel injection system wear and performance 

• Jet fuel use in diesel equipment 

• Engine dynamometer evaluations 

• Bench test development, fuel system materials 

compatibility 

• Field evaluations 

22

• Fuels/hardware interactions and test rig design 

• Aviation fuel research 

• Aviation fuel stability and contamination effects 

• Aviation fuel-derived deposition 

• Customized test fuel blends 

• Gas turbine combustor test facility 

• Optical and laser combustion diagnostics 

Fuel Systems and Contamination Research 

The Fuel Systems and Contamination Research 

Section in the Fuels and Lubricants Technology 

Department operates a 5,000-square-foot 

laboratory dedicated to fuel contamination 

research and testing. The facility consists of 

more than 4,200 square feet of laboratory 

space, containing 12 automated test cells. Of 

these cells, nine are dedicated to 

gasoline/flexible fuel testing, two to diesel testing 

and one to hybrid fuel cell testing. Using an 

automated fluid heating and cooling system, test 

temperatures can be varied from -40° to 80°C 

(-40° to 170°F). 

Technical strengths include: 

• Contaminant characterization 

• Accelerated life testing or key-life testing 

• Material compatibility 

• Modeling and simulation 

• Test procedure development 

• Lubricity, friction and wear 

• Environmental evaluation 

• Filtration 

• Emissions and safety issues 

• Component and systems development 

• Contamination research and advanced fuel 

delivery 

Filtration and Fine Particle Technology 

The Filtration and Fine Particle Technology 

Section in the Fuels and Lubricants Research 

Division provides research, development and 

testing services in many areas of air filtration; 

contamination sensitivity assessment; particle 

mechanics, transport and aerosol science; and 

real-time engine and component wear as a 

function of dust ingestion and exposure. The 

section also performs evaluations of automotive 

and heavy-duty engine and vehicle components 

and systems, including testing, analysis and 

design, with emphasis on real-world operation 

and real-life laboratory simulation. In addition to 

qualification and third-party comparative testing, 

laboratory and field evaluation programs are 

implemented to support component and systems 

research and development. These programs aid 

in developing strategies to solve specific 

filtration problems. Theoretical and experimental 

laboratory and field programs are also 

conducted to support the development and 

testing of novel filtration and particle 

technologies. 

The Section provides research, development, 

testing and evaluation services in: 

• Air filters and filtration systems 

• Automotive air induction systems and 

components 

• Filter qualification to industry, military and 

government specifications 

• Mechanical pre-cleaners and inertial 

separators 

• Engine intake air/water separation testing 

• Failure analysis of air filters, systems and 

components 

• Smaller-scale wind tunnel testing using blowing 

dust and water sprays 

• Contamination sensitivity assessment of 

mechanical and electrical systems and 

components 

• Structural integrity of filtrations systems and 

components (combined vibration and thermal 

cycling) 

• Field testing to develop vibration spectra for 

laboratory filter testing 

• Air filter test stand development and fabrication 

• Air filter laboratory design, layout and 

equipment specification 

• Evaluation of equipment protection from 

blowing and settling dust and blowing sand 

• Novel filtration technologies 

• Filtration specification development 

• Filtration sensor system development 

• Aerosol technology and mechanics 

• Aerosol sampler development and testing 

• Particle transport and multi-phase flows 

• Small particle interactions and mass transfer 

• Low and zero gravity separation studies and 

technology investigations 

• Dispersion studies using bioaerosol simulants 

and tracers 

• Near field particle transport and dispersion 

• Real-time wear measurement in operating 

engines and mechanical systems 

• Thermal efficiency and heat rejection 

evaluation of air and liquid-side heat exchangers 

and radiators 

Laboratory and field test programs support 

includes: 

• Qualification and third-party comparative 

testing 

23

• Component and systems research and 

development 

• Aid in developing strategies for demonstrating 

specific levels of performance 

• Solving specific problems 

• Performing standardized test to manufacturer, 

industry, government and military specifications 

• Developing and implementing specialized test 

plans 

• Advancing knowledge and understanding 

• Filtration efficiency, dust capacity and life 

measurement 

Air Filter Test Stand Design, Development 

and Fabrication 

The Section develops designs and fabricates air 

filter test stands for industry and government 

clients worldwide. These stands include: 

• Semi-automatic operation with real-time 

display 

• Closed loop control of dust feeding and airflow 

management 

• Post-test report generation 

In addition, laboratory design, layout and 

equipment specification services are also 

provided. 

24

Southwest Research Institute is an independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical 

sciences research and development organization with 11 technical divisions using 

multidisciplinary approaches to problem solving. The Institute occupies more than 1,200 acres 

in San Antonio, Texas, and provides more than 2 million square feet of laboratories, test 

facilities, workshops and offices for 3,000 employees who perform contract work for industry 

and government. 

We welcome your inquiries. 

For more information, please contact: 

Steven D. Marty, P.E., Vice President 


(210) 522-5929 

smarty.swri.org 

Benefiting government, industry 

and the public through innovative 

science and technology 

Southwest Research Institute 

6220 Culebra Road • P.O. Drawer 28510 

San Antonio, Texas 78228-0510 

www.flrd.swri.org 

www.swri.org 

25 

Rev. Nov 2013

Technical Services - Southwest Research Institute

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